Ultrasonically Assisted Penetration Through Granular Materials

Firstbrook, D. , Worrall, K. , Timoney, R., Harkness, P. , Suñol, F. and Gao, Y. (2016) Ultrasonically Assisted Penetration Through Granular Materials. 13th International Planetary Probe Workshop, Laurel, MD, USA, 13-17 Jun 2016.

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Abstract

Gaining access to the subsurface of planetary bodies is troublesome for a number of reasons, but particularly due to the low gravity encountered resulting in a lower available weight of spacecraft. A lower weight-on-bit (WOB) often results in sub-optimal drilling, and without complex anchoring or thrusting systems a planetary lander can only impart as much force as it weighs. This work investigates the use of ultrasonic vibration in assisting penetration through granular material. Compared to non-ultrasonic penetration, required forces have been observed to reduce by over a factor of 12. Similarly, total consumed power can be reduced by 28%, depending on the substrate and ultrasonic amplitude used. Tests were also carried out in high-gravity situations, displaying a trend that suggests these benefits would strengthen in lower gravity regimes.

Item Type:Conference or Workshop Item
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Worrall, Dr Kevin and Firstbrook, David George and Timoney, Dr Ryan and Harkness, Professor Patrick
Authors: Firstbrook, D., Worrall, K., Timoney, R., Harkness, P., Suñol, F., and Gao, Y.
College/School:College of Science and Engineering > School of Engineering > Systems Power and Energy
College of Science and Engineering > School of Engineering > Autonomous Systems and Connectivity
Copyright Holders:Copyright © 2016 The Authors
Publisher Policy:Reproduced with the permission of the Authors

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