Multi-Link Spherical Joint

Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX

Innovators at NASA Johnson Space Center have designed a spherical joint which allows up to six linearly actuated links or attachments to rotate about a co-located center. Originally designed to provide joint flexibility necessary for a variable geometry truss system, the new spherical joint also allows power and data lines to pass through it without the lines being subjected to structural forces.

The Multi-Link Spherical Joint provides a substantial improvement over typical joints in which only two linearly actuated links move independently from one another. It was determined that the rotation point of a trussed link needed to be collocated at a shared point in space for maximum articulation. If not allowed separate rotation, the line of action through a universal joint and hinge acts effectively as another linkage. This leads to a much more complex and uncontrollable structure, especially when considering multiple dimensions.

Comprising the Multi-Link Spherical Joint, a spherical shell encases the cupped ends of each six possible attachments and allows each of those attachments to be independently controlled and rotated without inhibiting the motion of the others. To do this, each link is precisely limited to 15 degrees of rotation off the link centerline, thus allowing a total of 30 degrees of rotation for each link. The shell-and-cup structure can handle the loads of linear actuators that may be used to control and vary the geometry of a truss system utilizing the new joint technology.

The calculated operating load that the truss system must handle can be used to scale the size of the joint, further allowing customization of any potential truss system. Additionally, the incorporated linear actuators can be controlled and powered by wiring routed through the joint without putting undo stress on the wires during operation. This innovative joint technology enables more efficient deployment and precise operation of articulating structures.

This technology can be key for creating a deployable, variable geometry truss system, with a compact form factor that can reduce payload volume within the confines of a launch or other transport vehicle. Typically, flexible truss systems rely on joints where each of the links do not rotate around the same point, creating instability in the joints and the entire structure. The Multi-Link Spherical Joint removes those instabilities, allowing for a durable and adaptable technology with multiple space and terrestrial applications.

NASA is actively seeking licensees to commercialize this technology. Please contact NASA's Licensing Concierge at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call at 202-358-7432 to initiate licensing discussions. For more information visit here .