NASA contest entry

grabcad

This is a .stl file of my entry to the NASA Regolith Advanced Surface Systems Operations Robot (RASSOR) Bucket Drum Design Challenge, showcasing an innovative design that's sure to impress. Four scoops are in constant motion, each measuring 27.5mm wide and working together as a well-oiled machine. The drum itself measures 250mm long and boasts a sturdy diameter of 450mm. A clever wall separates the scoops, making it easy to keep large blockages at bay - only small rocks and dust can fit inside. Each scoop features a precision-crafted pointed end that prevents rock fragments from escaping into the surrounding environment. As the drum rotates, dirt fills the channels, which are expertly designed to carry the soil to a waiting scoop. This robust design requires some serious elbow grease to open, but its solid construction is well worth the effort. The drum is loosely attached via suction to a 45mm diameter axle, ensuring smooth operation even in harsh conditions. To remove collected samples, NASA engineers can simply use the 45 mm hole in the drum to empty it. This revolutionary design would be brought to life through 3D printing in titanium, allowing for unprecedented levels of detail and precision. The choice of titanium is motivated by its exceptional strength, which enables the drum to withstand even the toughest scratches. By using a lower-density infill, 3D printing also helps reduce the overall weight of the print, making it an ideal solution for space exploration.