Auxiliary Control Mechanisms For RUM Actuators

Abstract

RUM actuator proposed device mounted on gimbaled, pivoted, or freely floating instrument and used to make instrument oscillate about one or more axes. Includes one or more (typically, two) unbalanced masses (e.g., lump masses on arms) for each axis about which oscillation desired. Unbalanced masses driven to rotate at constant angular velocity to produce oscillating centrifugal forces, which, in turn, exerts cyclic torques that make instrument oscillate about desired axis. Used in both terrestrial and spacecraft applications: for example, to oscillate instruments as diverse as x-ray telescopes, magnetometers, accelerometers, and agricultural spraying nozzles in variety of scan patterns that include linear, circular, and raster. Weights, power demands, and costs reduced.