4 Precursor Mission Design 4.5 Rover Design Considerations

4.5.3 Technology Development and Transfer

Three objectives of the Lunar Rover Race are a) stimulation of technology development for robust, efficient robotic rovers, b) encouraging dissemination of these developments, and c) increasing public and private participation in space activities. These objectives might not be so easy to combine as will be explained in this section.

In support of the third objective, the race does not discriminate between participants. Private "garage-made" rovers, an ISU rover, dedicated rover-company and military products are equally welcome, provided that they qualify. To satisfy the second objective, the participants could be required to publish their complete rover designs, with disqualification for the race as ultimate penalty. However, this measure has more negative than positive effects:

  • Technology Development: participants will be discouraged to implement their latest discoveries; therefore, the first objective is not satisfied.
     
  • Participation: companies will refrain from participating in the race and the third objective is violated.

Therefore, regulations are required that allow all three objectives to be satisfied. Pertaining to technology transfer, the participants will be required to produce the following documentation:

  • Overview document: describing the basic technologies. This document explains the features of the rover and elaborates on the rover's ability to move around in the lunar environment. The document shall state how these features and basic technologies will aid the rover in achieving the LRR. It will furthermore present the views of the builders of the rover how they expect that the rover will win the LRR. This document shall be aimed at the general public for education and information purposes.
     
  • Design and analysis report: a detailed document presenting the complete design of the rover. The LRR Authority will consider this report for the rover qualification. The design and analysis report will only be published with the written consent of the participant.

Patenting and Licensing

To stimulate publication of the rover designs, the racing authority should encourage and facilitate patenting and licensing of rover technology.

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