Title:
Semi-Active Rotary Damper Adapted for Rovers
Agreement Number:
25STDPZ08
Agreement Value:
$500,000.00
Agreement Date:
Sep 30, 2025 - Nov 15, 2027
Description:
CTA is a non-profit of Canada with expertise in semi-active suspensions systems and advanced engineering for mobility. This project’s objective is to deliver an innovative damper design for wheeled extraterrestrial vehicles, using friction that can be modulated. This system replaces traditional fluid based damper elements that are not well suited for the harsh condition of space exploration. By using algorithms to modulate friction in real-time as a function of inputs such as speed, the system can improve the mobility of rovers, allow operation at faster speeds and improve systems lifespan. The project includes detailed design, manufacturing and characterization of a damper prototype in a laboratory. The disruptive technology could position Canada as a leader in advanced rover mobility, filling an important technological gap that overly complicated smart suspensions seem to overlook.
Organization:
Canadian Space Agency
Expected Results:
The Research component of the program provides financial support to organizations to conduct space related research and development in priority areas. It will support targeted knowledge development and innovation to sustain and enhance the Canadian capacity to use space to address national needs and priorities in the future.
Location:
Sherbrooke, Quebec, CA J1K 0A5
Reference Number:
003-2025-2026-Q2-00038
Agreement Type:
Contribution
Report Type:
Grants and Contributions
Recipient Type:
For-profit organization
Additional Information:
STDP AO 9.3 Space R&D – Next wave of technologies
Recipient's Legal Name:
Centre de Technologies Avancées BRP-Université de Sherbrooke Inc.
Program:
Class Grant and Contribution Program toSupport Research, Awareness and Learningin Space Science and Technology
Program Purpose:
This program supports knowledge development and innovation in the CSA's priority areas while increasing the awareness and participation of Canadians in space-related disciplines and activities.
The Research Component aims to support the development of science and technology; foster the continual development of a critical mass of researchers and highly qualified people in Canada; and support information gathering and space-related studies and research pertaining to Canadian Space Agency priorities.