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Consolidated Break The Ice Challenge entries.
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== 2024-2025: [[NASA X-Hab 2025: Modular Robotic Construction]] ==
== 2024-2025: [[NASA X-Hab 2025: Modular Robotic Construction]] ==
A modular robotic construction project for NASA's [https://www.nasa.gov/exploration-habitat-x-hab-challenge/ eXploration Habitat (X-Hab) Academic Innovation Challenge] where we worked with NASA experts to design a hangar-like structure built from modular "L-Truss" segments. We successfully load tested a scale version and completed to-scale partial robotic assembly.<h2>2021-2023: NASA Break The Ice Lunar Permafrost Mining Challenge, Phases 1 and 2</h2>
A modular robotic construction project for NASA's [https://www.nasa.gov/exploration-habitat-x-hab-challenge/ eXploration Habitat (X-Hab) Academic Innovation Challenge] where we worked with NASA experts to design a hangar-like structure built from modular "L-Truss" segments. We successfully load tested a scale version and completed to-scale partial robotic assembly.<h2>2021-2023: [https://breaktheicechallenge.com/ NASA Break The Ice Lunar Permafrost Mining Challenge], Phases 1 and 2</h2>


=== Phase 1 ===
=== Phase 1 ===
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=== Phase 2 ===
=== Phase 2 ===
Developed a 60 kg mining robot ([[Excahauler]]) capable of excavating and transporting over 250 kg of lunar permafrost simulant. This robot was tested during a 15-day durability demonstration ([https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pq0jfVteUY0&ab_channel=OrionLawlor footage of our test]). Currently focusing on automating the prototype for robust lunar mining operations. [https://breaktheicechallenge.com/ NASA Break The Ice Challenge]<h2>2019: Caterpillar Robotic Mining Competition</h2>
Developed a 60 kg mining robot ([[Excahauler]]) capable of excavating and transporting over 250 kg of lunar permafrost simulant. This robot was tested during a 15-day durability demonstration ([https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pq0jfVteUY0&ab_channel=OrionLawlor footage of our test]). Currently focusing on automating the prototype for robust lunar mining operations.<h2>2019: Caterpillar Robotic Mining Competition</h2>
<p>Constructed a robot to excavate "icy regolith" beneath 30 cm of packed dust. Awarded the "Lightest Robot" despite using a steel frame, thanks to careful finite element analysis. Gained experience with TIG welding for both the frame and mining buckets. [https://auroraroboticslab.com/ More details]</p>
<p>Constructed a robot to excavate "icy regolith" beneath 30 cm of packed dust. Awarded the "Lightest Robot" despite using a steel frame, thanks to careful finite element analysis. Gained experience with TIG welding for both the frame and mining buckets. [https://auroraroboticslab.com/ More details]</p>



Latest revision as of 12:31, 4 July 2025

Project Archives

A modular robotic construction project for NASA's eXploration Habitat (X-Hab) Academic Innovation Challenge where we worked with NASA experts to design a hangar-like structure built from modular "L-Truss" segments. We successfully load tested a scale version and completed to-scale partial robotic assembly.

Phase 1

Designed a robot to mine lunar permafrost from permanently shadowed craters and haul water to a habitat. Won a $25,000 prize for the Phase 1 proposal, funding subsequent development. UAF Team Wins Prize

Phase 2

Developed a 60 kg mining robot (Excahauler) capable of excavating and transporting over 250 kg of lunar permafrost simulant. This robot was tested during a 15-day durability demonstration (footage of our test). Currently focusing on automating the prototype for robust lunar mining operations.

2019: Caterpillar Robotic Mining Competition

Constructed a robot to excavate "icy regolith" beneath 30 cm of packed dust. Awarded the "Lightest Robot" despite using a steel frame, thanks to careful finite element analysis. Gained experience with TIG welding for both the frame and mining buckets. More details

2016: NASA Robotic Mining Competition

Developed a new approach for lightweight, 3D-printed tracks used to excavate fluffy basalt dust lunar regolith simulant. The polypropylene straps were lightweight, impact-resistant, and durable. NASA Robotic Mining Competition

2014: NASA Robotic Mining Competition

Designed a robot for excavating a thin layer of lunar regolith simulant. Won the "Judges' Innovation Award" for an unfolding wheel design and a computer vision-based localization approach. Invited to the PISCES robotics competition in Hawaii. NASA Space Grant