Mechanisms that operate at very low temperatures
Project Funding:
ESA
Project Coordination:
Tecnomare, Italy
Project Partners:
Selex Galileo, TNO, Magnomatic
Duration:
48 months
The aim of this work is to develop mechanisms technologies that would enable existing mechanisms designs for Rover/Landers to operate at “cold” temperatures in the Martian atmospheric and dust environment. It is a Robotic Exploration Technology Plan activity from ESA performed within the MREP (Mars Robotic Exploration Preparation) programme.
Output of this project should be a complete drive train consisting of a motor, a Harmonic Drive ® gear, a planetary gear and an output bearing working in Martian environment (temperature range: from +5 °C down to -80 °C, pressure: 10 – 20 mbar).