Objective

Design and assemble sub-30kg wheel test jig using sheet metal to mitigate wheel motor failure and optimize wheel geometry for the UW Mars Rover Team.

Process

• Developed force simulation using compressed spring reaction force to approximate real-world wheel loading cases
• Developed a test plan targeting 5 specific failure modes
• Implemented motor current data collection using Python
• Currently 3D printing new wheel for testing
• Skills used:
  • SolidWorks (simulation and drawings)
  • Sheet metal
  • Woodworking (track saw cutting)
  • Odrive for motor control
  • Python for data collection
  • Excel for data visualization
  • Machine shop tools (mills, lathes)
  • 3D printing

Anticipated Outcome

Projected to deliver a 25kg portable test platform capable of repeatable wheel performance evaluation in simulated sandy terrain, with integrated telemetry for failure analysis and design optimization.