A Software Framework for Advancing Perception Capabilities for Rovers Operating in Harsh Lunar Environments

University of Wisconsin-Madison (UWM) in collaboration with ProtoInnovations propose to architect, design, develop, and validate a high-fidelity modeling and sensors simulation software and perception algorithms for surface hazard detection in harsh lunar-like environments. The space robotics community currently lacks an end-to-end software suite that simulates the appearance and granular-terrain mechanics of lunar-like environments. As NASA prepares for progressively complex and longer future lunar surface missions, surface robot systems will require higher performance and autonomy capabilities to carry out mission-critical tasks. This includes performing reliably and traversing successfully through previously unexplored lunar terrain in harsh environments. To achieve this, perception algorithms will need to advance to enable high-performance autonomy in dynamic lunar surface conditions. Phase II of this STTR, will further mature the simulation platform to generate higher fidelity data leading to the development and maturation of perception algorithms for detecting terrain hazards. The focus during Phase II will mainly be on the following: 1. Further improve the simulation platform to generate higher fidelity perception data 2. Develop a unified perception system to detect excessive wheel sinkage and embedded obstacles near the rovers wheels University of Wisconsin-Madison (UWM) in collaboration with ProtoInnovations, LLC propose to architect, design, develop, and validate a high-fidelity modeling and sensors simulation software and perception algorithms for surface hazard detection in harsh lunar-like environments. The space robotics community currently lacks an end-to-end software suite that simulates the appearance and granular-terrain mechanics of lunar-like environments. As NASA prepares for progressively complex and longer future lunar surface missions, surface robot systems will require higher performance and autonomy capabilities to carry out mission-critical tasks. This includes performing reliably and traversing successfully through previously unexplored lunar terrain in harsh environments. To achieve this, perception algorithms will need to advance to enable high-performance autonomy in dynamic lunar surface conditions. The primary Technical Objectives for this Phase II STTR project are: O1. Develop high fidelity simulator for rover mobility in harsh lunar environments O2. Develop modeling and simulation of sensors required for perception O3. Develop and mature perception system for terrain hazard in harsh environments O4. Test and validate the software for terrain hazard detection At the end of the Phase II we will deliver: D1. Open-source platform that simulates sensing in conjunction with rovers navigating deformable terrains in harsh lunar conditions D2. Perception software for terrain hazard detection D3. Final report, invention report, and other documentation as required by contract  

The advanced perception capabilities and associated technologies developed with this project boast several important advantages relevant to efficient and safe autonomous operation of robotic exploration systems. The development of an advanced simulation framework will also inform and enable the development of newer, high-performance rover systems for the Moon and Mars. The technologies developed under this project can potentially be applied to new robotics platforms for future advanced mobility systems. We will continue to grow in the space robotics market by further strengthening our partnership with commercial space companies, and offering our algorithms and simulation capabilities to a host of private enterprise missions.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 3) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

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