Team Bath Roving - Robotic Arm

Overview

Leading the design and development of the robotic arm subsystem for the University of Bath’s entry to the European Rover Challenge (ERC). The arm enables complex manipulation tasks required for the competition’s science and maintenance scenarios.

3D-printed reducer assembly — side view

Reducer assembly — top view showing bearing and mounting bolts

Role

Technical Lead - Responsible for:

System architecture and design decisions
Integration with rover base platform
Coordinating with electronics and software teams
Testing and validation procedures

Technical Challenges

Reducer exploded view — all components laid out

Weight constraints: Maximizing capability within strict mass budget
Dexterity requirements: Manipulating various objects in unstructured terrain
Integration: Seamless operation with rover navigation and control systems
Reliability: Robust performance in competition conditions

Technologies

ROS2 for control and integration
C++ for real-time control algorithms
Custom embedded systems for motor control
CAD/CAM for mechanical design

Competition Scope

The European Rover Challenge simulates Mars exploration scenarios including:

Science sample collection and analysis
Maintenance tasks on equipment
Autonomous navigation
Remote operation challenges