Terra-Mechatronics Researches
Building a mobile system that can operate on soft, uneven surfaces like the moon
We are trying to build a mobile robot system that can drive over unexplored and uneven ground like is found on the surface of the moon. The lunar surface is covered by regolith, which is an ultrafine layer of fragile sand. Specifically, we are developing special wheels that can travel over fragile sand and climb over rocks and stones, as well as robots with special mechanisms. Tangential to this research, we are also developing an airless tire for rescue vehicles that operate in disaster areas and for mobile agricultural systems.
STUDY FIELDS
- Mechanical engineering
- Space engineering
- Electronic engineering
- Sports and health science
FOR SOCIETY
Theoretical and experimental analyses of mobility on soft, uneven ground will help identify the characteristics of movements that can be applied in disaster areas, farms and snowy environments.
RESEARCH THEMES
- Research on lunar and planetary surface exploration robots
- Exploring the algorithms of movement between vehicles and uneven ground (terramechanics)
- Development of airless tires for rescue vehicles operating in disaster areas