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Large systems require compatible tension element dampers to meet environment requirements with reasonable mass allocations. The capability is applicable to human class landers and other large scale structures. In atmosphere pneumatic and hydraulic tension element dampers have been successfully demonstrated and deployed. The physics is well understood and equally applicable to space structures. The challenge is to come up with space compatible resistive elements. This effort will identify and demonstrate design space compatible resistive elements and their corresponding performance enhancements mechanisms.
Strong interest has been expressed by multiple NASA centers and this TIPs matured capability will apply to numerous ongoing and future NASA and industry missions. This effort will position MSFC to be involved in in-space propulsion and habitat structures and landing systems of NASA’s current mission plan creating multiple opportunities for ROI. In addition, significant interest in the proposed technology has been expressed by GRC representatives Thomas Goodnight and Vicente Suarez. Areas of interest include SLS and Lander applications.
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This is a mature technology (TRL 7+) — the realistic path in is usually NASA's Technology Transfer Program: licensing an existing NASA patent, or a Space Act Agreement to use NASA facilities/expertise directly. NASA also runs a startup licensing program with no upfront fee for companies formed to commercialize a specific NASA technology.
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