14. A Concept of Modular Transport Vehicle for Lunar Program

Annotation: The conceptual engineering solution was examined to increase the unification and interchangeability of components in a vehicle that can regularly transport cargo and be operationally adapted to solving various problems on the surface of different planets. The difference between this engineering solution and the existing designs of planetary roving vehicles was described. The objective is achieved by assembling a selfpropelled modular platform from generic modules that are rigidly joined with each other to create a unified control system and a unified power supply system for the platform. The number of modules is chosen depending on the objective and equipment installed on the platform. Self-propelled modular platform can function as a unified remote-controlled unit with capability to adapt operationally to solving new problems on the surface of various planets. Novelty of the modular vehicle concept lies in creation of the generic vehicle that is capable of being rebuilt depending on the functional task and can be delivered by parts to the site of its direct operation.