HEXFlow Signal — Mars Freeze-Thaw Hydraulics for Local Actuation and Reserve Signalling
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: This conceptual white paper describes a proposed Mars surface module that would use daytime heating to thaw a sealed water charge and nighttime freezing to produce a short hydraulic stroke. The primary applications are intermittent clamping, sealing, latching and mechanical status indication. A secondary embodiment, HEXFlow Signal LAMP, explores whether stored hydraulic work could power a low-duty guide light during a primary power outage. The paper presents screening calculations for mechanical work and signalling energy, alongside proposed tests for thermal reset and usable output. No prototype measurements are reported.
Author: JAGGARD, SAMUEL
Language: English
Subfield: Space and Planetary Science
Field: Earth and Planetary Sciences
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7225333054