A Temperature Maintenance System for Antarctic Exploration Robot and Robot Status Changes Analysis Through Extremely-low Temperature (-50℃) Test

Abstract

This study outlines a temperature maintenance system designed for the Korean Antarctica exploration robot (KAREX) and presents the findings from an extensive long-term operation test conducted in an ultra-low temperature environment. The central objective is to ensure the reliability of the robot in the extreme cryogenic conditions prevalent in Antarctica. KAREX’s temperature maintenance system comprises a plastic surface equipped with a high-density insulation pad, temperature control unit (TCU), and LiDAR sensors that meet the specified temperature requirements. To demonstrate the efficacy of the temperature maintenance system and monitor the status changes of the exploration robot in extremely low-temperature conditions, KAREX successfully completed an operational test in a chamber set to -50 degree Celsius for a duration exceeding 12 h. This test provided crucial insights into various aspects of the robot’s performance, including the characteristics of the temperature control system, the impact on battery conditions in ultra-low temperatures, and the behavior of the LiDAR sensors under such harsh environmental conditions. Based on the comprehensive test results, KAREX intends to proceed with exploration tests around the Antarctic Jangbogo Station.