The results of analysis of traction dynamics and stability of planetary rover’s motion for determination of special wheel chassis’ boundary design parameters

The analysis of the influence of the design parameters of the rover chassis on the traction dynamics, as well as the static and dynamic stability is presented. The analysis was carried out on the basis of the design parameters of the following rovers: Lunokhod-1, LRV, Sojourner, Spirit and Opportunity, as well as Curiosity. The results of the analysis of the influence of the radius and width of the rover wheel on the specific thrust coefficient are presented. An approach has been formed for determining the permissible displacement of the center of gravity of the rover in the longitudinal direction, which provides static stability. The choice of the formula for determining the maximum permissible speed of movement of automatic research planetary rovers has been substantiated. A number of recommendations have been drawn up for working out the design of the rover at the early stages of design. Boundary values of the rover wheel width, depending on the wheel radius, are proposed. The influence of the load on a separate wheeled propulsion unit on the specific thrust coefficient has been determined.