ACTUATOR WITH HIGH RESOLUTION MAGNETIC BRAKING - EXPRO PLUS (ARTES AT REF. 4E.072) (RE-ISSUE OF ITT 1-8885)

Description

Objective:The objective of the activity is to design, develop, manufacture and test a high resolution magnetic brake solution to increase the unpowered holding torque of rotary actuators used in mechanisms for telecoms applications (e.g. appendage deployment andpositioning).

Targeted Improvements:

  • Increased unpowered holding torque (approximately > 0.1 Nm at motor level).
  • Adjustable holding torque, in order to allow for easy adaptation to different application needs.
  • High angular resolution e.g. 1 degree or less capability for holding torque angular position.

Description:Rotary actuators (e.g. stepper motors) are used as common building blocks in telecoms mechanisms for deploying and positioning large appendages (e.g. booms, thrusters, antennas etc.). In recent years, unpowered holding torque has become one of the most critical requirements for rotary actuator design and selection, since it allows latchfree design and reconfigurability.

A promising solution is to introduce an electromagnetic brake in parallel with the actuator. Inthis context, it has been seen that for small steps size stepper motors, a magnetic brake seems to be the most reliable way to achieve the required unpowered holding torque.

Currently, this technology is not commonly available, therefore developing this concept will increase the capabilities of such actuators in Europe/Canada.

A high resolution adjustable magnetic brake engineering model shall be designed, developed, manufactured and tested. Various configurations shall be considered to identify the best design and performances driver parameters. Suitability of materials and processes for use in space shall be addressed as well as capability of sustaining environmental conditions typical of classic actuators applications.

Procurement Policy: C(1) = Activity restricted to non-prime contractors (incl. SMEs). For additional information please go to EMITS news "Industrial Policy measures for non-primes, SMEs and RD entities in ESA programmes."

Tender Specifics