Engineering topics
Publications and source records attributed to Glassow, F. A..
Conventional lubrication techniques appear to be satisfactory, but rigorous proof of meeting a ten-year life requirement is lacking. One approach provides additional lubricant only when commanded from ground control, while the other passively augments lubrication at all times. Each technique has specific advantages, and selection should be related to the application to obtain optimum performance.
The Intelsat 4 communications satellite has two spot beam antennas which are pointed to selected land masses by gimbaled positioners. The positioners employ drive motors with electromagnetic brakes and jackscrews that are self-caging during the launch. The positioner uses dry lubricants for ball bearings, spur gears, screw and nut, and various journal bearings. A coefficient of friction of approximately 0.05 was demonstrated in vacuum operation. Success of the positioner was demonstrated on the first Intelsat 4 placed in orbit in January 1971. The developmental problems that were encountered and their solutions are discussed.
Solenoid stepper motor for positioning Surveyor antenna/solar cell panel