UPREB

Univeral Predictor of Regolith Behaviour

Sponsor: Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt (DLR)

Project processing: Tobias Lamping

Summary of the overall project

The aim of the UPREB (Universal Predictor of Regolith Behaviour) project is to improve our understanding of the flow behaviour of lunar regolith by using equipment on the Moon. To achieve this, regolith particles will be recorded using micro-computed tomography. A statistical particle model is then created based on this data. At the Institute for Particle Technology (iPAT), this model is used to perform discrete element method (DEM) simulations of flow behaviour in conjunction with different systems. Experiments are also being conducted to describe the flow behaviour. Thus, the project makes a significant contribution to optimising ISRU systems and strengthening our understanding of the interaction between equipment and regolith for future lunar missions.

Goals and tasks of the iPAT

• Development of a DEM-based simulation model to describe the interaction between regolith and plant
• Calibration and validation of the simulation setup
• Development of a surrogate model to accelerate the prediction of particle movements

Project partners

• Technische Universität Bergakademie Freiberg, Institut für Mechanische Verfahrenstechnik und Aufbereitungstechnik
• Universität Ulm, Institut für Stochastik
• Fraunhofer-Institut für Fertigungstechnik und Angewandte Materialforschung IFAM
• Airbus Defence and Space