SBIR-STTR Award

Magnetic bearings in space applications must have mechanical backups for operation during launch and for fail-safe operation while in service on station. We propose a system in which preloaded ball bearings support rotation during launch and then stop when the magnetic bearing control loop is activated. They will accelerate from rest during subsequent shock touchdowns and then stop again. Acceleration will be limited in the ball bearings to prevent ball-race damage from gross slip. Torque limitation will be provided by a solid film lubricated bearing and a fluid journal bearing in series with the ball bearings. In Phase I of this SBIR, the objective is to accumulate a body of experimental shock/damage data that will define the acceleration limit for the system. The subtopic requirement addressed is to extend life of mechanical components under Machinery Dynamics/Advanced Bearings/Magnetic Bearings. NASA will benefit from this program by being able to use magnetic bearings reliably in any space application.

___(NOTE: Note: no official Abstract exists of this Phase II projects. Abstract is modified by idi from relevant Phase I data. The specific Phase II work statement and objectives may differ)___ Magnetic bearings in space applications must have mechanical backups for operation during launch and for fail-safe operation while in service on station. We propose a system in which preloaded ball bearings support rotation during launch and then stop when the magnetic bearing control loop is activated. They will accelerate from rest during subsequent shock touchdowns and then stop again. Acceleration will be limited in the ball bearings to prevent ball-race damage from gross slip. Torque limitation will be provided by a solid film lubricated bearing and a fluid journal bearing in series with the ball bearings. In Phase I of this SBIR, the objective is to accumulate a body of experimental shock/damage data that will define the acceleration limit for the system. The subtopic requirement addressed is to extend life of mechanical components under Machinery Dynamics/Advanced Bearings/Magnetic Bearings. NASA will benefit from this program by being able to use magnetic bearings reliably in any space application.