The Quiet Rotary Power and Information Transformer Converter, Phase I

Many satellites, spacecraft, and radar antennas with spun and de-spun configurations require the transfer of power across rotating interfaces in lieu of slip rings and/or flexures. This is particularly true for systems that have to demonstrate a long life expectancy. The rotary transformer has desirable characteristics of high reliability and low noise, which qualify it as a viable replacement for slip rings. The rotary transformer is essentially the same as a conventional transformer, except that the geometry is arranged so that the primary and secondary can be rotated with respect to each other with negligible changes in electrical characteristics. The power transfer is enabled by magnetic coupling across an air gap. There are not any wearing contacts, noise or contamination problems due to lubrication or wear debris. The development of a rotary power transformer will use the same ?Quiet Converter? technology that was used on WF/PC-II, Articulated Fold, Mirror Actuators (Hubbell Space Telescope), MISR and Mars 05 Op-Nav Camera.

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.