NASA Lunabotics 2023

Research and improvements on subsystems

Presenter: Jonathan Perez

Co-Presenter(s):
Manuel Vazquez, Brian Gomez, Christian Sanchez

Presenter Status: Undergraduate student

Academic Year: 22-23

Semester: Spring

Faculty Mentor: Nansong Wu

Department: Engineering

Abstract:
Collecting samples and exploring the moon is a challenging feat that requires specific design and equipment due to the harsh environment and unique conditions found on the moon. Therefore, we researched improvements to our previous rover design to better account for these conditions. Our project is focused on the applications of robotics in the exploration and research of the moon. We aim to create mobility platforms that can navigate the rough and uneven terrain, a digging platform to gather specific samples, long-range controls to remotely operate the robot, and power management systems to keep the robot running efficiently. Our primary goal was to create a robot to dig and extract regolith from a simulated moon environment. To achieve our objectives, we have followed NASA’s system engineering guidelines that provide a purpose and direction approach to designing complex systems. We have learned fundamental concepts that go into creating a rover or other intricate systems. These concepts include design, realization, and technical management. These skills are broadly applicable to all fields of engineering and have helped us develop a better understanding of how to design and develop systems. During our research, we evaluated various improvements that could be used on the rover. However, we found that only a few were actually applicable to our design. We have carefully selected the most effective improvements to create a robot that can operate in the given environment.