A REVIEW OF STRUCTURAL AND SYSTEM DESIGN OF MARS ROVER CURIOSITY AND PERSEVERANCE

Abstract

This review paper aims to gather currently available information on the Mars rover Perseverance and Curiosity, and attempt to analyze them in terms of structure and system. The Mars Rover Perseverance and Curiosity are the latest Mars exploration rover from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). The Mars rovers have the ability to explore, collect and analyze samples themselves, while being remotely controlled from Earth. Three components of the rover are analyzed, the body, wheel, and arm. The purpose, design principle, structure, mechanics, and thermal analysis of each part is reviewed based on available research. A review and discussion of possible improvements to the rover are also reviewed. From the analysis, the rovers’ body can provide structural support, while providing sufficient thermal requirements for its systems. The rover's wheel is rigid, providing resilience and structural support, while utilizing the Rocker-Bogie mechanism. Lastly, the arm and turret systems have the capability to support its equipment load by utilizing several systems such as the Caging mechanism and flex cable systems, while also accounting for thermal conditions.