This paper describes the mechanical design, analysis, fabrication, testing, and lessons learned by developing a uniquely designed spaceflight-like actuator. The linear proof mass actuator (LPMA) was designed to attach to both a large space structure and a ground test model without modification. Previous designs lacked the power to perform in a terrestrial environment while other designs failed to produce the desired accelerations or frequency range for spaceflight applications. Thus, the design for a unique actuator was conceived and developed at NASA Langley Research Center. The basic design consists of four large mechanical parts (mass, upper housing, lower housing, and center support) and numerous smaller supporting components including an accelerometer, encoder, and four drive motors. Fabrication personnel were included early in the design phase of the LPMA as part of an integrated manufacturing process to alleviate potential difficulties in machining an already challenging design. Operating testing of the LPMA demonstrated that the actuator is capable of various types of load functions.


    Access

    Access via TIB

    Check availability in my library


    Export, share and cite



    Title :

    Linear Proof Mass Actuator


    Contributors:

    Publication date :

    1994


    Size :

    20 pages


    Type of media :

    Report


    Type of material :

    No indication


    Language :

    English




    Linear Proof-Mass Actuator

    Online Contents | 1995


    Linear Proof-Mass Actuator

    Holloway, Sidney E., III / Crossley, Edward A. / Miller, James B. et al. | NTRS | 1995


    Linear Proof Mass Actuator

    Holloway, S. E., III | NTRS | 1995


    Linear Proof Mass Actuator

    United States / National Aeronautics and Space Administration| Lockheed Missiles and Space Company | British Library Conference Proceedings | 1995


    Linear Proof Mass Actuator

    S. E. Holloway | NTIS | 1995