College - Author 1

College of Engineering

Department - Author 1

Mechanical Engineering Department

Degree Name - Author 1

BS in Mechanical Engineering

College - Author 2

College of Engineering

Department - Author 2

Mechanical Engineering Department

Degree - Author 2

BS in Mechanical Engineering

College - Author 3

College of Engineering

Department - Author 3

Mechanical Engineering Department

Degree - Author 3

BS in Mechanical Engineering

College - Author 4

College of Engineering

Department - Author 4

Mechanical Engineering Department

Degree - Author 4

BS in Mechanical Engineering

Date

6-2023

Primary Advisor

Peter Schuster, College of Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Department

Abstract/Summary

Our team has designed, created, and tested a base rover for the University Rover Challenge (URC), conducted by the Mars Society. The rover's design focuses on modularity and robustness, incorporating a chassis constructed from aluminum extrusions, a robust rocker-bogie suspension system, a six-wheel drive train, and basic controls. The choice of aluminum extrusions ensures modularity for future enhancements, while the rocker-bogie suspension system, commonly used in other competitive and actual Mars rovers, provides improved stability and maneuverability. Rover operations are governed by a server-client architecture, with an Xbox controller input providing an intuitive user interface for movement control. Comprehensive testing confirmed the rover's capability for remote operations and maneuverability, and it meets URC design specifications with a weight of 35 kg and dimensions of 1.168 x 0.991 x 0.457 m. Future teams will need to incorporate a robotic arm, in-situ testing capability, and autonomous navigation, enabling full competition readiness for the URC.

ME_2023_F56_Video.mp4 (198085 kB)
Project Video

ME_2023_F56_Poster.pdf (971 kB)
Project Poster

ME_2023_F56_SOW.pdf (1870 kB)
Scope of Work

ME_2023_F56_PDR.pdf (1847 kB)
Preliminary Design Review

ME_2023_F56_CDR.pdf (1912 kB)
Critical Design Review

ME_2023_F56_Drawings.pdf (455 kB)
Drawing Package

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