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.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/mesp/702
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