Emily Fowler on Moog’s SoftRide technology
2 September 2015
1. Tell us a little bit about yourself?
I am the Analysis Group lead at Moog CSA. I have a BS in Aeronautical and Mechanical Engineering from UC Davis and an MS in Aerospace from San Jose State University. I have been with Moog CSA since June, 1998. While I have worked on many different programs as an analyst, my primary area of work is with SoftRide isolation systems.
2. Can you tell us more about Moog’s SoftRide technology?
SoftRide vibration isolation systems cover several different types and many different applications. SoftRide includes UniFlex (axial isolation), OmniFlex (multi-directional isolation) and ShockRings (high frequency isolation). Each system is able to function as whole spacecraft isolators or component isolators--for sensitive hardware or to isolate “noisy” equipment to prevent it from causing disturbances on the spacecraft. As with all members of the SoftRide team, I can be involved in any portion or all of the life of a SoftRide program. Because of the unique nature of each SoftRide system, we are typically involved from initial customer contact, through systems analysis, detailed SoftRide design and manufacture, all the way through test and final delivery.
Photo courtesy of Sierra Nevada Corporation
3. Can you tell us about the technology transfer process to our European site?
The US government has given permission through a Mutual Licensing Agreement (MLA) for Moog CSA to share their 30 years of SoftRide knowledge with our Moog Dublin site. The MLA allows Moog Dublin to develop whole spacecraft isolation systems for the European community. ESA and Enterprise Ireland have awarded a contract for a two year, three-phase program. Included in each phase is funding for Moog CSA and Moog Dublin to partner on the analysis, with training and support. The three phases will also expand the awareness of the SoftRide isolation possibilities available within the European community for both payload and launch vehicle providers.
4. Could the SoftRide technology be adaptable for other launch vehicles worldwide?
Yes, it can be and already is! SoftRide has flown on a European launch vehicle and is currently being used for a component isolation system for a Japanese customer.
5. What kind of missions are expected with the SoftRide technology in the future?
We expect to continue our expansion of SoftRide to new launch vehicles, new satellite busses, and to new areas of component isolation. As the benefits of SoftRide continue to be expanded across the globe, we look forward to showcasing the ability of SoftRide systems to solve an even broader range of problems.
Blog by Emily Fowler | Moog CSA Analysis Group Lead