October 2009 - November 2009
This was original idea – to have flat probe with 5 legs – two legs will be with
antennas and two legs will be equipped with 4 motors each – middle leg will be with
2 camera - movement of probe was designed to be a flip-flop steps – each leg has
a freedom against each other:
Upon the lunar surface all probes will land flat - 0.5m x 0.5m x 0.05m perfect
for air bag protection. But idea does not work – calculations showed that even with
1/6 of earth gravity geared motor are required. Regular step motors does not produces
enought momentum. One (motorized) leg was designed, built, and tested. Tests
also showed that it will be hard to protect solar panel from damage due to sharp
stones and sharp lunar dust. Another problem – weight of leg give estimation for
total weight – 8 -10 kg. Despite perfect moving capabilities and ideal camera's
viewing position this design was abandoned. As a result those pictures are only
what was left to remind – calculate first and do build after.
On previous picture holder for a 360 degree motor. Was not strong enough –
can be re-enforced by changing bolting screws
Also another problem - need to reinforce back of the motor – otherwise it will bend
at certain degree of impact:
It is clear visible on previous and next picture.
It is clear visible on previous picture.
Solar panel (screw for bolting visible on a tube) will be in 25 mm distance from
a ground - need to place protection shield on both sides – all shields will reduce
solar exposure.
Only one part was satisfactory – extender between two motors - it gives 360 degree
movement for a second motor.
Another useful knowledge from that “flat” design - stepper motors will require disassembling
and removing original bearings and changing it for ceramic one – bearing needs to
be easy to change. If decision will be made to return to “geared” motors – gears
have to be ceramic ones – even with different ceramics available now - design and
build can be problematic and time consuming.