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Reliable Actuator for Cryo Propellant Fluid Control

Award Information
Agency: National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Branch: N/A
Contract: NNX13CJ42C
Agency Tracking Number: 115424
Amount: $695,167.00
Phase: Phase II
Program: SBIR
Solicitation Topic Code: X10.01
Solicitation Number: N/A
Timeline
Solicitation Year: 2011
Award Year: 2013
Award Start Date (Proposal Award Date): 2013-07-10
Award End Date (Contract End Date): 2015-12-09
Small Business Information
144 SE Parkway Court, Suite 160
Franklin, TN 37064-1307
United States
DUNS: 016551561
HUBZone Owned: No
Woman Owned: No
Socially and Economically Disadvantaged: No
Principal Investigator
 Jeffrey Paine
 Principal Investigator
 (615) 595-6665
 jpaine@dynamic-structures.com
Business Contact
 Jennifer Sturgis
Title: Accounting & Contracts Manager
Phone: (615) 595-6665
Email: jsturgis@dynamic-structures.com
Research Institution
 Stub
Abstract

Fluid handling applications in cryogenic and extreme environments require reliable actuation technology that can handle extreme temperatures, mechanical bind-up from ice and foreign contaminants, and operation in poor conditions. A novel EM hammer drive technology is proposed for use in cryo-propellant fuel storage and regulation valves/devices. In addition to high force, the new drive technology offers potential advantages for miniaturization, heat load reduction, and lower cost than traditional electromagnetic and piezoelectric actuators. Dynamic Structures and Materials (DSM) proposes to focus the Phase II innovation on the development of a hammer drive actuation mechanism that will take the EM oscillatory power and produce continuous linear motion for operation at cryogenic and extreme environments. DSM has demonstrated expertise in the operation of its high force linear motor actuators at temperatures down to 77 K. The proposed actuator should operate from approximately 4 K to 400 K and should provide very low or no out gassing as well as operational capabilities in hard vacuum. The technology is proposed for applications in the cryo fluid management, pressure and flow control, and driving operational equipment and instruments. This proposal addresses DSM's approach to the development of flight-scalable demonstration components for the EM hammer drive technology.

* Information listed above is at the time of submission. *

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