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Completed TRL 4 (started at 2, targeting 4)
This IRAD is for continued development of a prototype precision mass scale using piezo-electric actuators. Leveraging work from the FY21/22 IRADs, we plan to refine a piezo based mass readout system that provides a signal source to the actuator and measures the AC impedance response to mass changes. The key challenges are accuracy and repeatability of the readings. If we can achieve the needed accuracy and repeatability in a compact form factor, the scale can be considered for sample analysis missions to the Earth’s moon, Mars or outer planet moons such as Titan.
Range of 0 to 150mg mass measurement with a targeted resolution (< 10mg) in low gravity environments.
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