Hammering Mechanism for HP 3 Experiment ( InSight )

This paper provides a description of the specific design features and nuances of the Hammering Mechanism, a drive unit for the HP3 mole-type penetrator for NASA’s InSight mission. State of the art for this type of mechanism and an overall system overview are provided. Particular attention is focused on key components of the system that make it an effective mechanism. The main design changes introduced to the mechanism are related to three main domains: mechanism architecture and principles, increase of efficiency and simplification of the design, and functionality. A few critical lessons learnt are also described.