Project Title:

Magnetic Spindle Bearing for an Optical-Disk Buffer

07.06-0540
Magnetic Spindle Bearing for an Optical-Disk Buffer
SatCon Technology Corp.
71 Rogers Street
Cambridge
MA
02142
Richard L.
Hockney
(617-661-8942)
LaRC

Abstract:

The advent of optical-disk recording technology has made possible a family of high-data-rate,
high-capability memory devices. Bearings are an enabling technology area; that is,
improvements are required to allow these systems to be utilized in space applications.
Air bearings, utilized in ground-based systems, are impractical in space. Experience
with rolling element bearings has been limited and unsatisfactory. With proper development,
magnetic bearings represent an ideal candidate for the rotating spindle of these
devices. They combine low noise, excellent positioning accuracy, with zero wear and
no lubrication requirement. The project will examine the feasibility of developing
magnetic bearings for the spindle of a high-performance, optical-disk buffer. The
effort will include definition of the magnetic bearing specifications, design of
the actuator configuration, determination of the controller characteristics, design
of the position sensor, and definition of the electronic circuitry requirements.

Potential Commercial Application:

Potential Commercial Applications:  This technology could pertain to a wide range
of high-performance commercial applications including optical-disk buffers.