PROJECT TITLE : Lightweight, low power actuators for space-borne adaptive optics systems
TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
The Next Generation Space Telescope will require an order of magnitude higher sensitivity and resolution than the Hubble Space Telescope. To achieve this increased performance, the NGST will require innovative lightweight designs for adaptive optics. Light-weight, low power actuators are required for the deformable mirrors to be used to correct image distortion. Energen proposes to develop actuators for use in space-borne applications and to demonstrate their use in a deformable mirror system. The actuators are based on cryogenic magnetostrictive materials and superconducting coils. These type of actuators have been demonstrated in a sonar system for the U. S. Navy operating at frequencies as high as 520 Hz. Magnetostrictive actuators have advantages over piezoelectric actuators because of ability to hold position without relaxation and low voltage operation. Cryogenic magnetostrictors have strain capabilities of 6300 ppm with very high force capabilities. They are able to both push and pull. When combined with high current density superconducting coils, the resulting actuators provide very precise postioning capability with very low power dissipation. Energen's innovative design for the deformable mirror assembly make efficient use of the magnetostrictive material and superconducting coils to reduce system weight.POTENTIAL COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS
Magnetostrictive actuators have application to active vibration control in machine tools, vehicular systems, and other vibration sensitive applications. Commercial aircraft could use these actuators to change the camber of wings thereby changing the lift-drag characteristics to adapt to changing flight conditions. Magnetostrictive actuators can be used in cryogenic systems to provide detachable thermal links, and as precision valve actuators.NAME AND ADDRESS OF PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR
Dr. Chad H. Joshi, P. E.NAME AND ADDRESS OF OFFEROR
Energen, Inc.
7 Riverside Ave.
Bedford, MA 01730
Dr. Chad H. Joshi, P. E.
Energen, Inc.
7 Riverside Ave.
Bedford, MA 01730