Section 4 TECHNOLOGY ISSUES This section includes an initial listing of MPTS technology issues. This listing identifies areas in technology where more work needs to be done and suggests approaches for accomplishing these tasks. No attempt has been made at this time to categorize or combine these technology programs. 4.1 CONTROL SYSTEM 4.1.1 Evaluation of Alternate Power Transfer and Drive Devices Slip rings and flex harnesses are power transfer devices most commonly used in spacecraft. However, these systems, principally the slip ring approach, require many mechanical interfaces. Potential reliability advantages can be envisioned with the use of rotary transformers for power transfer and direct drive linear induction motors for drive power. Potential payoffs in reduced maintenance or logistic requirements and lower friction justify further study of these devices for the MPTS. 4.1.1.1 Background Slip rings and flex harnesses are the only flight-demonstrated methods of power transfer across rotating joints. Because of the project scale of the MPTS, in size current carrying capacity, and mission duration, it is deemed critical to further evaluate rotary transformers and linear induction drive devices. These devices are relatively new applications for a space environment. A rotary transformer and linear induction motor drive combination has many advantages including no wear or wear products, no arcing, negligible friction, no viscous drag from liquid contact, and energy transfer relatively unaffected by the presence of oil, water, or other contaminants. Further design and experimental work is required to determine the practibilitj' of such a device to the MPTS. 4.1.1.2 Desired Output • Conceptual design to determine feasibility, weight and cost of rotary transformer/linear induction motor • Outline of scaled down prototype test program which will lead to development of full scale model.
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