Abstract In the paper a theory of motion of low velocity penetrator (LVP) is presented and confronted with the results of tests of a mole-like penetrator performed in material similar to lunar regolith. This theory is based on the fact that the considered LVP comprises, in principle, of at least three moveable mechanical parts: the penetrator casing, the hammer and the support mass, and are surrounded by the regolith. For the first time equations of motion of such system in the mechanically resistive medium are derived and numerically solved. The model is focused on the interactions between LVP subsystems and and influence of these interactions on LVP general behavior. The interactions with surrounding regolith were simplified and equations describing these interactions contain two parameters which were determined during experimental campaigns of mole KRET (LVP penetrator developed at the Space Research Centre PAS). Two major results were achieved: (i) LVP stability map as a function of the LVP parameters responsible for energy distribution in the system and (ii) duration of the particular phases of the LVP movement. The stability of the LVP forward motion was analyzed with respect to mass parameters p 1 and p 2 and stiffness of the springs k d and k r, and let to define the region where LVP is able to move forward in both Earth gravity and near zero gravity environment. The duration of particular phases of the LVP motion allows better understanding of cross dependencies between LVP subsystems and future ways to improve the design.

    Highlights General description of the Low Velocity Penetrator (LVP) working in reduced gravity, planetary environment. Deriving the general equations applicable to each type of Low Velocity Penetrator (LVP) driven by hammering action. Comparison of the experimental and numerical results of the mole penetrator movement in the regolith. Analysis of the mole KRET motion stability as a function of mass and energy parameters.


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    Title :

    Low velocity penetrators (LVP) driven by hammering action – definition of the principle of operation based on numerical models and experimental tests


    Contributors:

    Published in:

    Acta Astronautica ; 99 ; 303-317


    Publication date :

    2014-03-04


    Size :

    15 pages




    Type of media :

    Article (Journal)


    Type of material :

    Electronic Resource


    Language :

    English





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