INETEC is working on the project "Hybrid Bionic Locomotion Concept for Lunar Exploration Applications" for the European Space Agency - ESA. The main objective of the project is to research the requirements and design a concept of hybrid locomotion powertrain system based on bionic principle. The proposed hybrid locomotion powertrain system has a comparative advantage over classical powertrain systems used in rovers due to:
- innovative kinematic system based on bionic principle
- low manipulator mass due to kinematic concept of the propulsion system
- operation beneath the lunar surface
- multiple independent locomotion modules that allow for imitation of bionic movement to bypass obstacles such as cavities or cracks
- ability to operate in a confined space
During the development phase of this hybrid movement powertrain system we would define requirements, design the concept and prove it analytically. The hybrid locomotion powertrain system will be designed based on the knowledge acquired with the development of our pipeline remote inspection solution (projects Zenith and Zenith 100) designed and built by INETEC. A further objective of the project is to grow and build INETEC expertise in lunar applications.