Versatile Soil Sampling System Capable of Collecting, Transporting, Storing and Preliminary Onboard Analysis for Mars Rover Analogue

Abstract

Presented paper focuses on design process of Soil Sample Retrieval System for simple on-board analysis of collected material and cashing it for further examination. System is created to be mounted on mobile robotic platforms to provide a tool suitable for sampling scientifically interesting sites in remote and even hazardous for human environments [1,2,4].Considered solution will be thoroughly tested during University Rover Challenge 2016 aiding #next team efforts to proof life existence in mock-up Mars surface setting located nearby Mars Desert Research Station, Hanksville Utah. This procedure is one of challenge’s task that proves scientific usefulness of a built rover. It requires collection of unaltered sub-surface soil sample, preliminary examination and cashing it on-board for further analysis.The device needs to be capable of collecting sub-surface soil samples, then transporting gathered material to cash and experiment containers also embedded onto platform [3]. It uses a drilling technique similar to one used to crush concrete and hard rocks.Powder created during sampling is further transported via system of tubes powered with vacuum. In order to create under pressure system was equipped with high-efficient turbine capable of producing up to 45 kg of suction force. This new approach has never been used before during such competition. We believe it will provide much needed advantage during this task over other competitors.The system allows an equal distribution of collected soil into designated containers. They are fitted out with desired scientific equipment. In considered exemplary model there are three containers. One being equipped with pH sensor, second-a humidity sensor and third one for cashing unaltered sample for further laboratory experimentations. It can also be equipped with additional sensors such as black light emitter with CCD sensor to determine cyanobacteria presence.The paper consists of three parts. First one focuses on problem analysis [2,3], system design and preliminary tests description. Second one describes device manufacturing and tests. Last part consists of results analysis with a critical validation of presented solution and recommendations for further development.