Contactless Magnetic Joint Actuator for Space Applications

Project Objective

This project focuses on the development of a Contactless Magnetic Joint Actuator that would benefit several space applications such as dust-tolerant joints, momentum reaction actuators, and magnetically levitated multi-DOF support for sensor applications that require active base isolation.

Project Description

The main goal of the project is to develop a proof-of-concept prototype of a contactless magnetic joint actuator. The contactless magnetic joint is capable of both multi-DOF articulation and torque transfer for standard robotics operations on the Moon and Earth. This technology is directly applicable to devices affected by particulate abrasion (such as regolith) leading to performance degradation and high operational and maintenance costs. Due to the unique design feature of having no internal fraying surfaces during operations, wear will be greatly reduced while maintaining performance requirements. The proposed "contactless joint" could take on different forms, depending on the robotics design and operation requirements. The concept being pursued is accomplished with two stages, the first is a levitation stage which is responsible for the overall suspension of the center core. The second stage is the actuation stage, which consists of an array of permanent and electromagnets which are responsible for the position and transfer of torque.

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.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.