Exploiting the SherpaTT Rover Active Suspension System to Enable Optimal Solar Array Inclination and Orientation for Long Traverses in a Martian Environment
2020 (English)Independent thesis Advanced level (degree of Master (Two Years)), 20 credits / 30 HE credits
Student thesis
Abstract [en]
The SherpaTT rover is prepared for further autonomous long distance traverses in terrain akin to the Martian environment. However, it features a fueled power generator which cannot be employed in extra-terrestial scenarios. As the rover is meant to approach a higher technology readiness level, a photovoltaic power subsystem is proposed to guide future design iterations. This thesis presents the solar array sizing, design, and integration processes considered for two Martian mission sites: Iani Chaos at 2°S and Ismenius Cavus at 34°N. An alternative use case for the active suspension system is presented so that the proposed solar arrays may be inclined and oriented into power generating configurations that are more favorable than those achieved with passive suspension rovers. This results in traverse gains of up to 34% and 25% for clear days at Iani Chaos and Ismenius Cavus, respectively.
Place, publisher, year, edition, pages
2020. , p. 79
Keywords [en]
Mars, rover, active suspension system, solar array, power, energy
National Category
Aerospace Engineering
Identifiers
URN: urn:nbn:se:ltu:diva-78016OAI: oai:DiVA.org:ltu-78016DiVA, id: diva2:1413245
External cooperation
The Robotics Innovation Center (RIC) at the German Research Center for Artificial Intelligence (DFKI)
Subject / course
Student thesis, at least 30 credits
Educational program
Space Engineering, master's level (120 credits)
Supervisors
Examiners
2020-03-182020-03-102025-10-22Bibliographically approved