Space rover with frameless motor

Here at Triad Technologies, we're always excited to share how the advanced solutions we carry are pushing the boundaries of what's possible. Today, we're looking to the stars – or rather, to the moon – as we highlight the incredible role Parker Hannifin's Frameless Servo Motor Series is playing in upcoming lunar missions.

 

Designing equipment for lunar applications is challenging to say the least. It is critical that every part is reliable and equipped to handle extreme vacuum and fluctuating temperatures. That's where Parker's frameless motors come in. These innovative motors have been chosen for a series of lunar rovers set to explore Earth’s closest neighbor in the coming years. But what makes these motors the perfect solution for such a demanding environment?

Propelling Rovers with Precision: The Parker frameless motors are ideal for rotating tires, even across the most unforgiving terrain, like the moon’s surface. Their design allows for a direct drive connection, eliminating mechanical linkages and reducing potential points of failure – a critical advantage in space.

Built-in Redundancy: Some of the lunar rover designs feature two motors per wheel. This approach ensures peak performance when both motors operate together. More importantly, if one motor encounters an issue, the other can continue to function effectively, improving the chances of mission success.

Engineered for Extreme Conditions: These motors are sized to operate on 48VDC and can withstand vacuum levels down to an astounding 10^(−12) torr, offering reliable operation even in the vacuum of space.

Compact and Efficient Design: Frameless motors don’t require mechanical connections between the motor and load, which makes for a significantly smaller envelope. This is a huge advantage for lunar applications where every ounce and every cubic inch counts. With rated torques up to 26 Nm (227 in-lbs) and multiple winding selections, these motors deliver optimized performance in a minimal footprint.

Cost-Effective Innovation: Cutting-edge technology doesn't have to break the bank, even for space exploration. Parker's frameless motors are a lower-cost solution, making them accessible to space explorers and industrial engineers alike.
 

Parker Hannifin is committed to providing not just exceptional products, but also the in-depth information and support necessary for complex applications. Contact Triad Technologies today to discuss your next application Whether it's for rovers on the moon or critical equipment in your industrial facility, Triad is proud to be your local Parker distributor.