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Hybrid superconductor magnet bearingsHybrid superconductor magnet bearings (HSMB's) utilize high temperature superconductors (HTS's) together with permanent magnets to form a frictionless interface between relatively rotating parts. They are low mass, stable, and do not incur expenditure of energy during normal operation. There is no direct physical contact between rotor and stator, and hence there is no wear and tear. However, just as any other applications of HTS's, it requires a very cold temperature to function. Whereas this might be perceived as a disadvantage on earth, it is of no great concern in space or on the moon. To astronomers, the moon is an excellent site for an observatory, but the cold and dusty vacuum environment on the moon precludes the use of mechanical bearings on the telescope mounts. Furthermore, drive mechanisms with very fine steps, and hence bearings with extremely low friction are needed to track a star from the moon, because the moon rotates very slowly. All aspects considered, the HSMB is about the only candidate that fits in naturally. Here, we present a design for one such bearing, capable of supporting a telescope that weighs about 3 lbs on Earth.
Document ID
19960000247
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Chu, Wei-Kan
(Houston Univ. TX, United States)
Date Acquired
September 6, 2013
Publication Date
April 1, 1995
Publication Information
Publication: NASA. Johnson Space Center, Proceedings of the 4th International Conference and Exhibition: World Congress on Superconductivity, Volume 1
Subject Category
Mechanical Engineering
Accession Number
96N10247
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.

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