Project Title:

Rotary Dampers for Deployable Space Structures

94-1	09.08	3800		

Rotary Dampers for Deployable Space Structures

Abstract:

Creare proposes to develop an innovative rotary fluidic damper that 
can be used to dampen vibrations in deployable space structures. 
The design provides a high damping coefficient which is nearly 
constant with applied torque and temperature, in a relatively 
compact, light structure. Preliminary calculations show that the 
damping coefficient of the proposed damper will change by only 40% 
as the operating temperature is changed by 100 K and the 
corresponding fluid viscosity is changed by 500%. A remarkable 
attribute of the new damper is that it does not experience thermal 
freeze and lock up at high temperatures. Also, the torque 
coefficient of the damper can be adjusted from essentially zero to 
its designed maximum value, allowing for ample adjustment of 
damping as well as easy disengagement of the motion resistance for 
large-angle maneuvers. During Phase I, a proof-of-concept test 
damper will be developed and tested. During Phase II, a complete 
prototype which has all of the necessary attributes of a working 
damper will be designed, fabricated, and tested. 

An innovative rotary damper that provides temperature-insensitive 
torque in a compact structure has potential applications in both 
vibration reduction and shock absorption. Potential commercial 
applications for this technology include satellite receivers and 
radio telescopes, as well as advanced shock absorbers for many 
types of vehicles and motorcycles.

Key Words

Creare Incorporated
Etna Road, P.O. Box 71
Hanover, NH 03755