New motors for next-generation in-space servicing

Satellites and other spacecraft require maintenance and service after being deployed in orbit, requiring a wide variety of tools that perform multiple maintenance tasks (grip, cut, refuel, etc.). Current drive systems for the tool interfaces on the robotic arms that perform these service tasks are not as robust nor packaged properly for use in the ATDS. The ATDS is one part of a larger in-space servicing system (example shown in the figure below) that must be versatile and perform multiple jobs. Here, innovators at the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center have developed new BLDC motors to provide the torque necessary to drive the wide variety of tools needed for in-space servicing. The four motors provide torque to the coupler drive, linear drive, inner rotary drive, and outer rotary drive of the ATDS. The new BLDC motors will enable the tools attached to the ATDS to be operated in multiple modes of operation. Each of the four motors have been customized with different speed and torque capabilities to meet the different performance requirements of the various actuator drive trains while maintaining a common gearhead across all the motors. Further, the packaging surrounding the motors has been tailored to reduce the overall weight of the motors and reduce the motor footprint to meet the needs of the ATDS. The BLDC motors for the ATDS are available for patent licensing.