Supporting mechanism of micro gravity rotating apparatus

Abstract

A rotator supporting mechanism in a microgravitational rotating apparatus includes a magnetic bearing of the rotator so as to effect a vibration control. Recess portions 10a, 10b are provided in a casing 10. Coils 1, 2 of the magnetic bearings 11, 12 and vibration sensors 3, 4 are arranged in the recess portions 10a, 10b being fitted to the casing 10 side. A rotary shaft 30 has its upper end inserted into the recess portion 10a and its lower end inserted into the recess portion 10b and connected to a motor 13. Both ends of the rotary shaft 30 are supported by a magnetic force. Arms 24–27, extending horizontally along X and Y axes, each have one end fitted to the rotary shaft 30 and the other end fitted with experimental boxes 20–23. Objects such as plants and animals, etc. are placed in the boxes 20–23 and, while they are rotated in space, experiments are performed. When a vibration occurs in the rotary shaft 30 due to weight imbalances between each of the boxes 20–23, the vibration is detected by the vibration sensors 3, 4 to thereby control exciting current of the coils 1, 2, so that the vibration is controlled.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.