Coreless Linear Induction Motor (LIM) for Space-borne Electro-magnetic Mass Driver Applications Element

Large scale linear induction motors use ferromagnetic cores, but at high speed these cores choke the system's ability to transform electrical energy into mechanical energy. Use of composite materials can be used to replace structural support previously provided by ferromagnetic materials. However, coreless motors lack the structural support usually provided by the iron core in a traditional LIM. Designing a rigid coreless LIM will require material studies and detailed thermal/structural analysis.

A coreless LIM can enable an alternative solution to asteroid re-direct missions. The application of this technology offers distinct system life cycle cost advantages. A coreless LIM will enable high speed electromagnetic space-faring mass driver propulsion, which introduces a disruptive technology into conventional space mission system design, mission performance, and the advancement of space technology. A coreless LIM offers the potential of creating a self-sustaining, low life-cycle cost interplanetary space transportation and resource supply infrastructure that can be more efficient than space-faring all chemical propulsion which have high maintenance purification and refining processes. Although chemical propulsion systems can out-perform many other space propulsion system in the near-term, the mass driver system provides a low maintenance supply chain backbone.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 5) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

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.