Application 701

MSL Mars Rover Cryogenic Multi-Axis

Application Summary

FUTEK was commissioned by NASA to develop a cryogenic multi-axial sensor to operate within Curiosity's robotic arm. This sensor stands responsible to measure the torsion and force applied while the arm operates.

Products in Use

NASA/JPL - Space/Flight Qualified Cryogenic Load and Torque Multi-Axial Sensor.

How it Works

Many applications require customized solutions. Thus, FUTEK knows that when NASA approaches us, a standard off-the-shelf product won't fully fit their bill of requirements. But being that we are in the business of providing solutions, if there's a will there's a way for FUTEK to design and develop the necessary sensor needed for the job. And that's exactly what we did.
For the MSL Mars Rover Curiosity mission, FUTEK was commissioned by NASA JPL to develop a space/flight qualified cryogenic three component sensor. With capabilities of measuring torque and force, this sensor operates within the rover's robotic arm. As the arm maneuvers, the multi-axial sensor provides feedback to the operating device identifying the levels of torsion and force applied. The necessity of this multi-axial sensor is to alert the rover if over-exertion on the arm occurs.