Engineering topics
Publications and source records attributed to Koch, E. F..
Actuator stabilizes spacecraft spin by varying length of support struts that hold spacecraft booms. Variation changes spin axis and controls wobble. Linear actuator controls spacecraft wobble applicable in rotating systems on Earth.
Because the linear boom actuator is to be used on a flight spacecraft, as opposed to a ground based application, there is a comprehensive set of requirements. First, of course, the actuator must be capable of positioning and holding the load. Initially the load as predicted to be 4448 N (1000 lb) but with subsequent spacecraft configuration changes the load has been greatly reduced to a constant tensile pull of 1477 N (332 lb) due to centrifugal force. Lesser compressive loads of 1317 N (296 centrifugal lb) may be experienced during launch and deployment. This actuator must have the maximum redundancy possible. Life requirements were defined by the 10.16 to 15.24 cm (4 to 6 in.) total liner travel expected during the five-year flight duration. Liner range required of the actuator was set at plus and minus 5.08 cm to accommodate configuration changes.
Simple modification converts conventional high-pressure regulator to combination pressure-regulator/shutoff valve. Modification entails adding second diaphragm and pressure compartment. Modified valve is switched between its two functions by external two-position low-pressure valve.
Valve features precise gas-pressure regulation and shuts off flow by remote control. Valve is made up of regulator valve cavity and spring-compression adjusts cavity. Elements in regulator cavity are conventional and include high-pressure inlet, ball which mates with seat, push rod, and pressure-sensing diaphragm.
A remotely operable pressure regulator and shutoff valve particularly suited for achieving high resolution and flow control, and positive shutoff is described. The valve is characterized by a spring-loaded ball coaxially aligned with a fluid port to be sealed, a spring-loaded pintle extended through the port into engagement with the ball, for controlling the position, a spring-loaded diaphragm for controlling the position of the pintle, and an axially displaceable spring supported by a movable stop which, in turn, is repositioned by a selectively operable stepper motor. Thus, the pressure-response characteristics for the valve can be varied through a selective repositioning of the stop.
Mass spectrometer leak testing by calibrated enclosure method for quantification of gaseous leaks in large complex systems
Sterilization of guidance and control systems and components
Expulsion bladder equipped storage tank structure