Application
The University of Manchester and the UK Space Agency selected Olsen Actuators and Drives to deliver a proof-of-concept demonstrator for a winch system to be used by the lunar rover. The winch system is an integral part of the rover design because it will be used to lower a probe into the lava tubes and then retrieve it after data has been collected.
The Challenge
Developing a winch system capable of operating in the lunar environment is extremely challenging for a number of reasons. It must be able to withstand temperatures ranging from extreme lows of -100 degrees Celsius, right up to highs of 280 degrees Celsius. The system needs to be protected from ingress of lunar dust (regolith) which is highly abrasive so will damage components causing them to malfunction. Exposure to Cosmic radiation and solar particles can cause electrical systems to fail, so the components of the winch must be radiation-hardened in order to withstand this radiation exposure. There are also high vacuum conditions on the lunar surface and within the lunar tubes which makes the design and operation of the lunar rover extremely challenging.
The drive system for the winch needs to be able to operate in these incredibly challenging conditions. The system must be extremely lightweight, yet strong enough to support the rover’s lowering into the lunar tubes, which could be 50m or greater descent. It’s also critical that the motor is able to read the velocity of travel so that it can lower the probe at a uniform velocity of 0.5m/s, for maximum control, to enable scientific measurements during descent and to reduce the likelihood of damaging any part of the rover system.
Solution
With its vast experience and wealth of expertise in space-rated motor drives and power electronics, Olsen Actuators and Drives was able to design and build an automated winch system technology demonstrator that fulfils the requirements of the project. The proposed design uses radiation-hardened, space-rated components, able operate in the harsh lunar conditions, withstanding extreme temperature variations and high levels of radiation. To prevent harmful regolith from accessing the system, the motor is contained within a sealed 3D printed drum design. Weighing just 15kg, the winch system is light yet still strong enough to ensure success of the mission.
Olsen Actuators and Drive’s technology demonstrator was provided to the University of Manchester ready for the next stage of the project, when the rover will be considered for future funding by the European Space Agency (ESA) for a higher Technology Readiness Level (TRL).
Results
The UK Government’s Enabling Technologies Programme (ETP) provides opportunities for the UK space sector to accelerate the development of leading-edge technologies that could be used to tackle global problems and benefit the work of space organisations internationally. In November 2023, the University of Manchester was awarded £190,000 under this funding programme to develop alternative motion techniques that expand the range and operating capabilities for extra-terrestrial robotics, supporting future rover and exploration missions.
The project will design and manufacture an omni-directional hopping robot rover that incorporates a payload-driven design with integrated sensors. The rover will use a jumping motion for movement rather than wheels because it will be more effective at navigating over uneven ground. It will be used to explore lava tubes under the surface of the moon, collecting data on their topography, in order to gain an understanding of how viable the location is for future habitation.
