Electrostatic actuation and control of gravity reference sensor test masses
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- DE · DE
- Patent Type
- Patents
- Current Assignee / Owner
- AIRBUS DEFENCE & SPACE GMBH
- Filing Date
- 2021-03-23
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-10
AI Technical Summary
Existing technologies face challenges in reliably capturing and controlling the position and attitude of test masses after release from a locking mechanism in spacecraft, particularly for space-based gravitational wave observatories like LISA, due to potential damage from high release velocities and displacements.
A control system utilizing electrostatic actuation and sensing arrangements to detect and adjust the position and attitude of test masses using a higher order electrostatic model, applying forces and torques concurrently to stabilize the test masses within an electrode housing without mechanical contact.
Enhances the reliability of capturing and positioning test masses, reducing the risk of damage and improving mission success by accurately controlling test masses in free-fall conditions, allowing for more efficient ground testing and smoother transition to space operations.