Mechanical

List of Requirements

The Surface Sampling Container stores regolith, Mars powder, and rock/probe samples in separate compartments (2–3 total), keeping sample types isolated from collection through storage. The robotic arm grabs a scoop tool, which it uses to collect sample material from the surface and pour it onto the container's weighing platform. Once loaded, the container weighs the total collected sample mass. If the mass meets the minimum threshold, the lid opens via the motor and the material is deposited into one of the compartments; the lid then closes via the motor and locks by default through magnetic caps mounted on the top of the lid and the base of the container. If the mass falls below the threshold, the motor actuates to open the container and reject the sample rather than storing it.

On the technical side, compartment and lid actuation is motor-driven, and the full assembly must fit within the housing dimensions defined for the system. The lid opens up to 90 degrees, and probe mounting follows dimensions specified in Mars Rover Competition manual . A piezoelectric sensor is integrated for mass measurement, connected directly to the chassis. The system is fully 3D-printed to satisfy the weight limitations imposed on the overall assembly, and the weighing platform is constrained to a single degree of freedom in Z-translation, keeping the system stationary during measurement and ensuring accurate readings.

In terms of performance, the locking mechanism must hold its seal under vibration and transport loads. Each sampling operation must collect a minimum viable sample mass of 100 g; if the measured weight of the regolith (or other material) falls below 100 g, the motor rejects the sample by opening the container and removing it rather than storing it in a compartment.