+ View all Success Stories

On February 23, 2005, a Nonreimbursable Space Act Agreement was signed with Eaton Aerospace, subcontractor to Lockheed Martin for the development of the Defense Department’s F-35, for the use of Goddard's Gear Bearings technology developed by John Vranish (Code 544).

Technology Description

Gear bearings function both as gears and bearings, providing superior speed reduction in a small package. Smoothness and precision control are created through reduced micro chatter and elimination of rotational wobble. The technology provides for tighter mesh, more even gear loading, and reduced friction and wear.

Technology Transfer/Partnership Success

Eaton Aerospace will design, fabricate, and test an actuator that incorporates Goddard’s gear bearing technology for use in the state-of-the-art fighter jet. Currently, Eaton’s actuator exceeds size and weight specifications, and Goddard’s technology is expected to enable the necessary reductions.

This work will advance gear bearings’ technology readiness level (TRL) and reduce NASA’s costs for flight-qualifying the technology. TRL advances also will accelerate the use of gear bearings in NASA’s many potential space exploration applications (e.g., robotics, space tools, rovers).

Contact

Innovative Partnerships Program Office
NASA Goddard Space Flight Center
Phone: (301) 286-2642
E-mail: techtransfer@gsfc.nasa.gov


+ Contact Eaton Aerospace (Link opens new browser window.)
+ Read more about the Gear Bearings