This work introduces a novel approach for Titan exploration based on soft
morphing aerial robots leveraging the use of flexible adaptive materials. The
controlled deformation of the multirotor arms, actuated by a combination of a
pneumatic system and a tendon mechanism, provides the explorer robot with the
ability to perform full-body perching and land on rocky, irregular, or uneven
terrains, thus unlocking new exploration horizons. In addition, after landing,
they can be used for efficient sampling as tendon-driven continuum
manipulators, with the pneumatic system drawing in the samples. The proposed
arms enable the drone to cover long distances in Titan's atmosphere
efficiently, by directing rotor thrust without rotating the body, reducing the
aerodynamic drag. Given that the exploration concept is envisioned as a
rotorcraft planetary lander, the robot's folding features enable over a 30%
reduction in the hypersonic aeroshell's diameter. Building on this folding
capability, the arms can morph partially in flight to navigate tight spaces. As
for propulsion, the rotor design, justified through CFD simulations, utilizes a
ducted fan configuration tailored for Titan's high Reynolds numbers. The rotors
are integrated within the robot's deformable materials, facilitating smooth
interactions with the environment. The research spotlights exploration
simulations in the Gazebo environment, focusing on the Sotra-Patera cryovolcano
region, a location with potential to clarify Titan's unique methane cycle and
its Earth-like features. This work addresses one of the primary challenges of
the concept by testing the behavior of small-scale deformable arms under
conditions mimicking those of Titan. Groundbreaking experiments with liquid
nitrogen at cryogenic temperatures were conducted on various materials, with
Teflon (PTFE) at low infill rates (15-30%) emerging as a promising option.Comment: Presented at International Astronautical Congress 2023 (Baku,
Azerbaiyan