Electrodynamic Screen for Lunar Zebro Moon rover Electrode Design Team: Electrode Design
An evaluation on the viability of utilizing EDS to improve the performance of the solar panels on the Lunar Zebro
T.O. Geerling (TU Delft - Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science)
M. Mihankhah (TU Delft - Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science)
T.B. Plantfeber (TU Delft - Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science)
C.J.M. Verhoeven – Mentor (TU Delft - Electronics)
F.J.P. van Mourik – Coach (TU Delft - Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science)
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Abstract
One of the major challenges faced by future robotic and human missions to Mars and the Moon is the presence of atmospheric dust. The Lunar Zebro rover which is intended to walk on the Moon is powered by solar panel. Due to its surrounding terrain, which mostly consists of small particles, the rover may be a potential target for dust accumulation, which reduces its output power. For the longevity of any space mission, it is important to have a long-lasting source of energy. That is why during this project, an Electrodynamic screen is constructed which could remove dust from a 100 x 100 mm area without containing moving parts. One subgroup concentrated on building the electronics necessary to create a high voltage (~1.6kV) three-phase drive signal, the other group focused on the electrodes of the system and described the effects of an electric field on dielectric particles. These are mostly found on the Moon. Different electrode architectures are proposed, but the zigzag architecture was found to be the best suited for a possible dust removal system. Furthermore, the higher voltage applied to the electrodes, the greater the forces exerted on the particles are. Further research should be conducted for any possible implementation. It is recommended to also read the other thesis.