The University of Colorado Boulder’s HAQ Lab, under the direction of Prof. Hannigan, has initiated a research project aimed at addressing the growing challenge of methane emissions from landfills by developing an autonomous rover capable of monitoring harmful gases while navigating harsh landfill terrains. This project builds upon previous efforts that, despite not yielding a functional rover, provided valuable direction for current development. The rover, designated RALPH-E 3, adopts the rocker-bogie design with enhancements such as a servo-driven steering system, upgraded motors, and a revised control architecture. The primary objectives include ensuring the rover can traverse diverse terrains (sand, dirt, grass), overcome 12-inch obstacles, climb 30.5-degree inclines, and execute 180-degree turns within a 2-foot radius. It must maintain a clearance height of one foot, accommodate necessary sensors and batteries, weigh less than 80 pounds, and withstand standard weather conditions. Functionally, the rover must operate both autonomously and via remote control, perform patrols three times weekly, and ensure its electronics do not interfere with the SEM sensor. The current phase of the project focuses on design completion, manufacturing, testing, and contingency planning, with an emphasis on creating a reliable, mobile, land-based solution for methane monitoring in landfill environments.
