Development of long-life, low-noise linear bearings for atmospheric interferometry
Abstract
This paper describes the development of dry-lubricated linear bearings for use on the Michelson interferometer for passive atmospheric sounding (MIPAS). Two candidate bearing systems were developed and tested. In the first, use was made of linear roller (needle) bearings equipped with a pulley-and-cable arrangement to prevent cage drift and to minimize roller slip. The second design was of a roller-guided bearing system in which guidance was provided by all bearings rolling along guide rods. The paper focuses on the development of these linear bearings systems and describes the approach taken in terms of bearing design, lubrication methods, screening programs, and thermal-vacuum testing. Development difficulties are highlighted and the solutions ultimately adopted are described.
- Publication:
-
28th Aerospace Mechanisms Symposium
- Pub Date:
- May 1994
- Bibcode:
- 1994aeme.symp..245R
- Keywords:
-
- Ball Bearings;
- Michelson Interferometers;
- Molybdenum Sulfides;
- Needle Bearings;
- Roller Bearings;
- Solid Lubricants;
- Spacecraft Lubrication;
- Tribology;
- Lead (Metal);
- Low Noise;
- Metal Films;
- Spacecraft Instruments;
- Mechanical Engineering