Patent — available for licensing
Cord Tension Measurement Device (C-Gauge)
A NASA invention available to explore as a licensing opportunity.
About this technology
Overview
Innovators at the NASA Johnson Space Center (JSC) have developed the C-Gauge, a non-invasive tension measurement device for axial loaded cords. Cordage-based flexible structure systems are used by NASA as parachutes and inflatable structures. For engineers to fully design, develop, and test these types of systems, they must understand the tension and loading of the structural components including the load carrying cords. Traditional in-line load cells require cords to be severed and attached to a metallic interface. The C-Gauge attaches to the cord without any severing of the cord and can measure the structural response without affecting the dynamics of the system, providing engineers a non-invasive way to test cordage-based structures with a small, low-profile, and lightweight device. The C-Gauge has a variety of potential applications including, but not limited to, parachutes, inflatable structures, hot air balloons, weather balloons, blimps, sails, and parasails.