Challenge: The University Rover Challenge (URC) is a team based international robotics competition for college students that requires design, testing, and fabrication of a fully functional Mars Rover prototype (mechanical, electrical, and software). supported by the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, The 2018 Rover Challenge included Terrain Traversal, Autonomous Traversal, object manipulation, Science Analysis, and Astronaut Assistance.

Skills: 3D Printing, CAD Modeling, Design for Machining, FEA Analysis (structural), Gears, Machining, Motors (DC), Motor Control, multi-Disciplinary TEamwork, Pulleys, Water Jetting.

SOLUTION: As a member of the Mechanical Arm sub-system team, I helped design and fabricate a three limbed robotic arm with a customizable claw capable of object manipulation. THe arm was able to rotate a full 360 degrees around the CHASSIS by way of a motorized pulley system and was designed to reach anywhere on the ground within a 3 foot semi-circle in front of the Rover. Each of the three limbs was fabricated from 6061 aluminum and was driven by either a geared down DC motor or a motorized PULLEY/belt system.

The Claw end effector was DESIGNED to have three degrees of freedom: pitch, twist, and the ability to clamp down on, and interact with an object such as a screw driver.

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