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Completed TRL 8 (started at 6, targeting 9)
Project Objective
Outfit the M-40 Diamond turning lathe with accelerometers to monitor machine vibrations.
Project Description
The M-40 Diamond turning lathe is a machine used to cut the reflecting surfaces of mirrors up to 2 meters in diameter. To achieve the precision needed to meet science goals, the machine must be incredibly stable. The intent of this project was to outfit the machine with high precision accelerometers in order to be able to monitor vibrations over a range of frequencies and amplitudes which will allow for mitigation of any issues causing poor quality parts and be able to give early detection of machine issues.
Project Results and Conclusions
The accelerometers were successfully installed on the machine. We were able to create a baseline of machine vibrations which will allow us to monitor for any deviations from the baseline as well as adjust parameters (such as servo tuning, hydraulic pressure, air bag pressure and damping, etc.) and be able to have a metric for improvement.
Establishes the ability to correlate vibrations with environmental factors and/or machine parameters allowing for adjustment or mitigation. This leads to better surface finish off of the machine which can save substantial amounts of time by either cutting polishing time needed or eliminating the need entirely.
It will also allow for early detection of machine part failure such as bearings or motor drives.
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This is a mature technology (TRL 8) — 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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