College
College of Engineering and Polymer Science
Date of Last Revision
2026-05-07 06:09:38
Major
Aerospace Systems Engineering
Honors Course
AESE 491-002
Number of Credits
1
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science
Date of Expected Graduation
Spring 2026
Abstract
This project focuses on designing an automated soil resetting system for extraterrestrial regolith simulation. The system will prepare a regolith simulant testbed to a desired, repeatable density, enabling reliable wheel–terrain testing for planetary rover research. Manual soil preparation currently exposes testers to hazardous particulates and produces inconsistent results.
The proposed system will integrate mechanical and control elements to reset the soil bed safely and efficiently. A combination of raking and vibrational methods will be explored, with feedback sensors and automation to achieve target density control. The research will proceed through literature review, benchtop experimentation, prototype design, and full-scale testing over two semesters.
Research Sponsor
Dr. Elizabeth Clifford
First Reader
Dr. Manigandan Kannan
Second Reader
David M. Peters
Honors Faculty Advisor
Scott Sawyer
Proprietary and/or Confidential Information
No
Recommended Citation
Brennan, Parker W. and Daniels, Anthony C., "Automated Soil Resetting System for Extraterrestrial Regolith Simulation" (2026). Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects. 2198.
https://ideaexchange.uakron.edu/honors_research_projects/2198
Included in
Acoustics, Dynamics, and Controls Commons, Applied Mechanics Commons, Computer-Aided Engineering and Design Commons, Electro-Mechanical Systems Commons, Space Vehicles Commons, Structures and Materials Commons, Systems Engineering and Multidisciplinary Design Optimization Commons