Components make the machine. Whether it’s a flat tire, a leaky valve, or a stuck bearing, a faulty part can slow down a whole operation – and in space, it can be a total loss. As a result, we’ve developed more reliable, longer-lasting, components and installation techniques that can keep mechanical or fluid systems going even in the most hostile environments.
We’re highlighting a few ready to hit the market.
Superelastic tire can take a beating before ever needing a pit stop
Looking for the ultimate all-terrain tire? NASA has developed a design, made from shape memory alloys, that conforms to all types of rough roads, eliminating the fear of running flat or blowing a tire completely. Versatile, tough, and lightweight, this tire also saves fuel.
All-in-one gear bearings offer all the performance without the high price-tag
From building toys to industrial machinery, the simple gear can be easy to overlook. But, when it comes to getting to space, every piece of the rocket puzzle needs to pull double-duty. Enter NASA’s gear bearings. This technology represents a mechanical architecture breakthrough by combining gear and bearing functions into a single unit that significantly improves gear drives across the board for electrical, internal combustion, and turbine motors. It reduces weight, number of parts, size, and cost, while also increasing load capacity and performance.
Get a low-cost, long-lasting valve seal with this simple technique
Springing a leak is always annoying, but it can turn quickly turn dangerous when working with industrial machinery.
Luckily, NASA has created a simple valve seat installation technique for leak prevention suitable everywhere from manual valves to regulators and much more. This simplified technique saves time and installation costs, and results in comparable leakage protection by minimizing stress in the seal material.
Lightweight, long-reach robotic arm can help take the load off… and back on again
Need an extra hand? NASA created a compact, lightweight robotic arm to help mine asteroids and repair satellites, and it perfect for earth-bound applications from loading freight to remote inspection in dangerous areas. The design can be scaled anywhere from 10 to 1000 meters, making it easy to fit your exact needs.
Interested in licensing the tech mentioned above? Follow the links to apply through our website. You can also browse our entire technology portfolio here.
Follow the NASA Technology Transfer Program on twitter @NASAsolutions for the latest updates on technologies available for licensing.
