Other
Scientific paper
Apr 1992
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=1992vpi..reptr....b&link_type=abstract
Final Report Virginia Polytechnic Inst. and State Univ., Blacksburg. Dept. of Aerospace and Ocean Engineering.
Other
Brayton Cycle, Graphite-Epoxy Composites, Lunar Roving Vehicles, Pressurized Cabins, Radiation Shielding, Radioisotope Batteries, Lunar Bases, Multilayer Insulation, Solar Collectors, Space Communication
Scientific paper
A pressurized lunar rover is necessary for future long-term habitation of the moon. The rover must be able to safely perform many tasks, ranging from transportation and reconnaissance to exploration and rescue missions. Numerous designs were considered in an effort to maintain a low overall mass and good mobility characteristics. The configuration adopted consists of two cylindrical pressure hulls passively connected by a pressurized flexible passageway. The vehicle has an overall length of 11 meters and a total mass of seven metric tons. The rover is driven by eight independently powered two meter diameter wheels. The dual-cylinder concept allows a combination of articulated frame and double Ackermann steering for executing turns. In an emergency, the individual drive motors allow the option of skid steering as well. Two wheels are connected to either side of each cylinder through a pinned bar which allows constant ground contact. Together, these systems allow the rover to easily meet its mobility requirements. A dynamic isotope power system (DIPS), in conjunction with a closed Brayton cycle, supplied the rover with a continuous supply of 8.5 kW. The occupants are all protected from the DIPS system's radiation by a shield of tantalum. The large amount of heat produced by the DIPS and other rover systems is rejected by thermal radiators. The thermal radiators and solar collectors are located on the top of the rear cylinder. The solar collectors are used to recharge batteries for peak power periods. The rover's shell is made of graphite-epoxy coated with multi-layer insulation (MLI). The graphite-epoxy provides strength while the thermally resistant MLI gives protection from the lunar environment. An elastomer separates the two materials to compensate for the thermal mismatch.
Bhardwaj Manoj
Bulsara Vatsal
Kokan David
Shariff Shaun
Svarverud Eric
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