Roving Mars: Using Function Analysis to Develop a Concept System

Abstract

Function analysis drives a bold concept for a vehicle that could transport humans around the harsh Martian terrain in the year 2037.

Responding to a design challenge by the U.K. magazine Industrial Vehicle Technology International, ergonomist Steven Casey and industrial designer Gregg Montgomery joined forces to develop a concept for a manned Mars Exploration Rover to be used on the Red Planet in the year 2037. The exercise was a classic use of function analysis, an HF/E engineering method integral to the development of unique systems. The harsh Mars environment, overall mission objectives, living and working environments, and anticipated astronaut tasks were the driving forces behind the conceptual design. Their Mars Exploration Rover recently was awarded the prestigious GOOD DESIGN Award for “its bold, futuristic design” by the Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design with the European Centre for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies.

Keywords

system development space human factors vehicle ergonomics system requirements design concepts Mars Exploration Rover function requirements analysis

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