NASA Research Paper

Rover Mechanics and Terrain Simulation Analysis

OVERVIEW

This technical research paper, co-authored with NASA Marshall Space Center scientist Dr. Dennis Gallagher, explores the mechanics of human-powered rovers and validates design principles through advanced terrain simulation. The paper presents stress analysis using ANSYS and compares simulated results with real-world testing data from the HERC rover challenge. The research contributes to NASA's understanding of rover design for future lunar and Martian missions.

MY ROLE

• Co-Author: Authored technical sections on rover suspension and drivetrain mechanics
• FEA Simulations: Conducted comprehensive finite element analysis using ANSYS Workbench
• Data Collection: Coordinated field testing to gather real-world stress data on HERC rover
• Validation: Cross-referenced simulations with experimental results to validate models
• Documentation: Prepared technical diagrams, charts, and mathematical models for publication

OUTCOMES & RECOGNITION

Published

NASA Technical Report

50+

Assemblies Simulated

Dr. Gallagher

NASA Mentorship

AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS

NASA Recommendation

Official recommendation letter from NASA Marshall Space Center scientist Dr. Dennis Gallagher.

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Research Paper

Full technical research paper on rover mechanics and terrain simulation analysis.

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Full Report

Comprehensive project report with detailed findings, simulations, and validation results.

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