Abstract
Environmental reconnaissance needs mobile platforms that carry sensors, preserve measurement context, and return interpretable evidence under limited energy and communication. We present a literature-informed engineering design for Zephyron, a four-wheel rover with a front manipulator, environmental sensors, distributed computer vision, local recording, and a raised rear solar module. The design keeps the prototype layout but replaces unsupported numerical assumptions with an explicit component and geometry baseline. A reproducible search retrieved 5,000 records (4,858 unique) for screening, followed by targeted review of primary literature and manufacturer documentation. The baseline uses 165 mm wheels, a 12 kg mass budget, a 72 Wh battery-energy basis, and a 20 W photovoltaic module. With rolling-resistance coefficient 0.04, steady ascent of a 10 degree grade needs about 0.517 N m per wheel under equal load sharing. An illustrative 40 W motion load gives 1.44 h from 57.6 Wh usable energy, and a 25 percent driving duty gives 4.19 h without solar input; these are calculated scenarios, not measured performance. Sensor models show how integration time, calibration, temperature, and communication delay constrain interpretation, and a quality-aware stop-and-sample policy links these constraints to mission execution. Lightweight detectors, reference-based sensor learning, and executable data-integrity checks define a reproducible machine-learning evaluation pathway. The contribution is a traceable design and evaluation framework with editable 3D models, subsystem diagrams, and reproducible analytical data. Experimental validation is required before assigning payload, endurance, detection, or field-operating ratings.
Abstract (translated)
URL
https://arxiv.org/abs/2609.25709
