Training Lander for Rover Arm Testing

Author

James Peck, Utah State University

Date of Award

5-2025

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Departmental Honors

Department

Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Abstract

The purpose of this honors capstone project is to design and fabricate a training lander to support the Utah State University (USU) rover team in preparation for the University Rover Challenge (URC). The URC is an international collegiate competition featuring four missions, one of which—the Equipment Servicing Mission—demands a high level of robotic arm functionality and operator skill. Historically, USU's rover teams have struggled to qualify for the URC finals, in part due to limited hands-on training opportunities with the robotic arm.

To address this gap, the training lander replicates the tasks found in the URC Equipment Servicing Mission, such as operating a joystick, typing on a keyboard, and flicking switches. The lander includes modular mechanical components and interactive electronic features that simulate real mission conditions. The lander allows team members to validate arm capabilities, refine operator technique, and troubleshoot challenges before competition. Additionally, the lander serves as an outreach tool, engaging K–12 students at STEM events with a hands-on demonstration of robotic systems.

This project integrates core principles from mechanical design, electronics, and systems engineering—culminating in a functional, reusable platform that will benefit both current and future USU rover teams.

Recommended Citation

Peck, James, "Training Lander for Rover Arm Testing" (2025). Undergraduate Honors Capstone Projects. 1022.
https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/honors/1022