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Lunar Rover Component Optimisation

Tue, 16 Apr

|

Online and Beca Auckland

The Mechanical Engineering Group invite you to join this presentation that introduces a comprehensive methodology for enhancing the design and performance of mechanical components for lunar rover missions.

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Lunar Rover Component Optimisation
Lunar Rover Component Optimisation

Time & Location

16 Apr 2024, 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm

Online and Beca Auckland

About the event

Our approach integrates advanced computational techniques to accurately represent materials and predict their behaviour under lunar conditions. By validating our models and employing optimization techniques, we improve the durability and performance of lunar rover components in the challenging lunar environment.

This presentation explores the significant challenges involved in lunar exploration missions, with a focus on landing at the lunar South Pole. The rugged terrain, extreme temperatures, and limited sunlight in this region pose formidable obstacles. Compounding the difficulty is the lack of comprehensive data about the lunar South Pole, hindering accurate assessments of potential landing sites and complicating mission planning. Additionally, the harsh lunar environment demands meticulous material selection and engineering design tailored to withstand the conditions. The absence of materials specifically designed for the lunar surface, coupled with limited data on material behavior and radiation damage, presents another hurdle. To overcome these challenges, the presentation introduces a novel multiscale modeling approach that integrates advanced computational techniques like density functional theory, molecular dynamics, crystal plasticity, homogenization, and finite element analysis. By accurately representing materials at different scales and leveraging optimization, this methodology aims to enhance the design and performance of critical lunar rover components under the demanding lunar conditions.

About the presenter: Dr. Vinay Karanam is an independent consultant with over 16 years of experience in mechanical engineering. His expertise includes thermal-hydraulics, multiscale material modeling, and renewable energy engineering. He is also the secretary and interim treasurer of the MEG Engineering New Zealand National Committee and chairs the Waikato Branch of MEG Engineering New Zealand. Through his skills and leadership, Vinay contributes to the advancement of mechanical engineering and fosters industry collaboration. Vinay Karanam, PhD, MEng, BEng, FIML, MInstD, CEng(I), FINS, FIE, MEngNZ, MPMI

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