T.G.S. (Torpedo "Gumball" Scoop)

grabcad

The TGS is a scoop attached to a robotic arm, designed for digging on lunar surfaces. It filters regolith bigger than 2cm via a wire mesh cage and separates it into rocks (1-2 cm diameter) and smaller material (less than 1cm). The grading ramp assists in segregating the materials by gravity while the TGS can be oscillated for better results. In its vertical position, rocks are stored in the upper collection area while smaller material is held below. A "gumball machine" mechanism views and collects or discards the 1-2 cm rocks, depositing them into chutes leading to a gate (assumed on the lander/rover). The process is repeated for materials less than 1cm, with the TGS potentially rotated for better camera visibility. A NEMA 11 motor mount operates the "gumball loader" mechanism. Mounting to the robotic arm is via the scoop body's flange. Due to time constraints, this model is at a rough concept stage and requires optimization and detailing. Enhancements could include funnels for feed holes, weight optimization, scoop "teeth", optimized ramp separators, and potentially eliminating the end motor in favor of a bevel gear drive powered by an arm servomotor.