The Lava Tube Exploration Vehicle project is a proof-of-concept for a remote-controlled rover capable of exploring the lava tubes below the lunar surface. This is a joint project between the MMET Senior and the CSET Junior project teams at the Oregon Institute of Technology. This project aims to create a rover that is capable of traversing low-light conditions and rough environments of lava caves on Earth.
The L.T.E.V. is an aluminum, remote-controlled, multi-car tracked vehicle that can traverse through dark and narrow environments. Each car is equipped with 4 sets of tracks, one on each side, to allow driving capabilities on any side of the vehicle determined by the gyroscope. To turn, the L.T.E.V. utilizes a series of servos and pulleys to articulate the joints in 2 degrees of freedom to turn or lift each car. These systems in each car are controlled by a Raspberry Pi that allows the operator to control the motors, servos, camera, infrared lights, and other onboard electronics from a handheld controller. The controller enables the user to operate the vehicle and view vital information such as the camera displays and power output.
Over the course of the year, several tests were conducted on the L.T.E.V. to determine its capabilities and areas needing improvement. Through these tests, it was determined that the L.T.E.V. is capable of traversing several environments such as concrete, grass and gravel. Further improvements can be made to strengthen the tracks and provide more traction while on loose or rugged terrain.