Industrial Consultancy & Sponsored Research (IC&SR) , IIT Madras
Novel Dune Rover Configuration for Improved Lateral Stability and Mobility in uneven Terrains.
Categories for this Invention
Category – Robotics and Automation
Applications – Agriculture, Exploration, Transportation, Hazard Monitoring
Industry – Robotics, Autonomous Vehicles, Agricultural Technology, Aerospace, Logistics, Space Rover platforms, Manufacturing
Market – The Robotics Market size is estimated at USD 45.85 billion in 2024, and is expected to reach USD 95.93 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 15.91% during the forecast period (2024-2029).
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Problem Statement
- Existing wheeled robotic platforms lack stability in lateral and longitudinal directions over uneven terrain.
- There is a demand for a solution that can enhance stability enabling wheeled robots to navigate challenging terrains reliably and efficiently.
- The primary goal of the design is to obtain postural stability in all-terrain rovers with the least number of actuators possible, which will reduce overall cost and result in a less sophisticated control strategy.
Technology
Rocker arm assembly :
- Split rocker-arm assembly interconnected with dual differential allows for the synchronous as well as asynchronous actuation on uneven terrain.
Differential gearbox mechanism :
- Dual differential layer can achieve pitch averaging and actively control chassis roll using only single actuator and the offset arm spur gear arrangement.
Mid-shaft design :
- Incorporates a mid-shaft arrangement with coaxial spur arrangement enabling passive movement for pitch stabilisation.
Rocker shaft connector :
- Features a connector with groove ball bearing and gear arrangement to synchronize the gearbox mechanisms on the top and bottom layers of the chassis, ensuring coordinated movement.
Rocker shaft connector :
- Incorporates timing pulley-belt to prevent the rover from collapsing under its own weight.
Key Features / Value Proposition
User Perspective:
- Improved Stability: Users benefit from enhanced stability, enabling more reliable navigation in challenging terrains.
- Versatile Applications: The invention’s stability across various terrains expands its utility in agriculture, exploration, transportation, and hazard monitoring.
Technical Perspective:
- Unified Actuation: Utilizes a single actuator for roll and pitch control, simplifying system design and reducing control complexity .
- Synchronization Mechanism: Differential gearbox and timing pulley-belt system ensure coordinated movement, optimizing stability control.
Questions about this Technology?
Contact For Licensing
sm-marketing@imail.iitm.ac.in
ipoffice2@iitm.ac.in
Research Lab
Prof. Asokan T
Robotics Lab, Department of Engineering Design
Intellectual Property
- IITM IDF Ref. 2361
- IN 466271 (Patent Granted)
Technology Readiness Level
TRL- 4
Technology validated in Lab scale.