The Conceptional Design and Simulation of a Foldable Lunar Vehicle

Abstract

Moon exploration is an attractive research of interest especially along with the development of lunar vehicle technologies in the past decades. Here, a small lunar vehicle prototype with a foldable mechanism was proposed. It can fold and unfold in the lunar environment, which can reduce the volume by about 20%. The robotic arm of the lunar rover which incorporates the camera into its end-effector also helps reduce the number of vision sensors and extra energy consumption. Besides, a combination of solar panels and compact nuclear batteries can ensure the rover's endurance of operation on the moon. In addition, the folding process of the lunar rover, the ability to go uphill and downhill, and the ability to pass over obstacles are simulated in SOLIDWORKS MOTION. Accordingly, two optimization schemes, including adding more suspension systems and automatic route planning systems, are proposed. With the development of the foldable lunar vehicle, it became possible for large number of lunar vehicles to be sent to the moon in one time, which also provided the basis for the commercialization of the moon landing.