New motors for next-generation in-space servicing

About this technology

Overview

Brushless direct current (BLDC) motors are of interest to drive tools for in-space servicing due to their reliability, efficiency, and controllability. Current BLDC motors do not meet the needs of space environments, nor do they have common interfaces, limiting their versatility. NASA inventors have developed four BLDC motors to power a variety of tools for in-space servicing. The motors are part of the Advanced Tool Drive System (ATDS) that is attached to the end of a robotic arm providing the power for the servicing tools. While the motors have differing performance characteristics to drive various tools, they have been designed with a common gearhead for versatility within a single frame size. The motors are built to withstand the wide temperature variations and radiation conditions of geosynchronous orbit. The BLDC motors and the ATDS will be used for spacecraft servicing in manned and unmanned missions and may also apply to terrestrial robotic systems.