Centre de Technologies Avancées BRP-Université de Sherbrooke Inc.
Semi-Active Rotary Damper Adapted for Rovers — CTA is a non-profit of Canada with expertise in semi-active suspensions systems and advanced engineering for mobility. This project’s objective is to deliver an innovative damper design for wheeled extraterrestrial vehicles, using friction that can be modulated. This system replaces traditional fluid based damper elements that are not well suited for the harsh condition of space exploration. By using algorithms to modulate friction in real-time as a function of inputs such as speed, the system can improve the mobility of rovers, allow operation at faster speeds and improve systems lifespan. The project includes detailed design, manufacturing and characterization of a damper prototype in a laboratory. The disruptive technology could position Canada as a leader in advanced rover mobility, filling an important technological gap that overly complicated smart suspensions seem to overlook.