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@nraynaud
Last active February 1, 2026 12:10
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Notes on the mechanical design of the Sojourner rover
@Chrismofer
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Thank you, handy collection. I would like to build a replica and am surprised at the lack of documentation.

@nraynaud
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thank you.
I'm moving this document to a proper github Repo: https://github.com/nraynaud/sojourner/tree/main
Moreover, I have started sharing my 3D model, but it's very far from complete, and I have not yet documented where I feel confident in the model and where I have completely imagined the inner working.
the F360 project it here : https://gmail2701309.autodesk360.com/g/projects/202601281043460231/data/dXJuOmFkc2sud2lwcHJvZDpmcy5mb2xkZXI6Y28uaUxZUkVjYWZUSHFaU1lDczFrQUdDdw==
it should be publicly visible

@Chrismofer
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it lets me 'log in' using my account but I am unable to see the model either on the autodesk360 site nor within fusion hubs. Perhaps if you export an f3z file or step or similar I can open it offline, but I would love to join the hub and help with the CAD. I am [email protected] on fusion.

I am reading and compiling info as well about the electronics, materials, and dimensions. I also plan to request that someone at the Smithsonian takes square-on pictures of Marie Curie with a ruler or scale bar present. side, front, and top views would be extremely useful for more accurate CAD.

@nraynaud
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nraynaud commented Jan 30, 2026

Thank you for the report, let me rummage through the project settings and report back.

@nraynaud
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I definitely goofed up. I made it public for the people in my hub, which is myself. Still looking for a way to make it public.

I'm a bit reluctant to just dump a file because it's divided into multiple files, and I'd like to use the comment system to explain what I invented and what I feel more confident is the reality.

@nraynaud
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I added you to the poject, I'll need to make a single assembly to export the project in one fell swoop.

@Chrismofer
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Thank you much, I am able to read the files now.

I've been interested in building my own Sojourner-alike, and don't mind cheating with the electronics (I don't intend to build an 8085 based brain but a similar or slightly more powerful microcontroller will do. I've also modeled a modern inexpensive 16mm geared brushed motor (16GA25) which can sometimes be found geared down to 10RPM at 6 or 12 volt. It is slightly smaller than a RE-16 from the looks of it, perhaps it could be disguised as one with a housing. An encoder would need to be fitted for proper odometry or servo control. I am fond of as5600 absolute encoders.

image

@Chrismofer
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here's an interesting still from gearskeptics video
image

@nraynaud
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nraynaud commented Feb 1, 2026

yes, thank you, I have been stealing screengrabs from his video and corresponding with him by email.

I suggest you edit your prior message to remove your email to reduce the spam you receive, and continue the disucussion on the github repo I opened here: https://github.com/nraynaud/sojourner/blob/main/README.md .

I'll try to do a data dump in the repo today.

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