Form 9.B Project Summary

Chron: 971653

Proposal Number: 25.01-9217

Project Title: Miniaturized Manipulator Sensing System Using GMR Sensors

Technical Abstract (Limit 200 words)

Sensors using Giant Magnetoresistive Ratio (GMR) materials can offer improvements in size, power, and sensitivity for position and rate sensing in remotely controlled robotic operations in space. GMR materials integrated with on-chip electronics can be very small and light weight and very sensitive to magnetic fields, while operating on very low power. On-chip coils or miniature permanent magnets used in conjunction with GMR sensing materials can monitor magnetic fields, magnetic field gradients, or eddy currents to indicate position (rate) of ferrous or non-ferrous metal manipulators. The intrinsic reliability of GMR sensors (as proven in automotive qualification testing) combined with low power consumption should provide long term surviv-ability in space applications. Using the extensive internal technology base developed for inte-grated GMR sensors, the Phase I Program will study the feasibility of one-, two-, and three-wire GMR sensors for robotic space sensing systems. User needs will be surveyed to determine me-chanical and electrical interface requirements. Preliminary systems designs and feasibility demonstrations will be completed for the most promising applications in Phase I, and working sys-tems will be designed fabricated, and delivered for Phase II.

Potential Commercial Applications (Limit 200 words)

Sensor systems of this type would be applied in many industrial and medical applications, as well as being generally applicable to commercial robotic systems. Automotive applications would include in-bearing sensorsfor ABS pplications, where NVE’s sensors have already passed fleet tests.

Name and Address of Principal Investigator (Name,

Organization Name, Mail Address, City/State/Zip)

Carl H. Smith

Nonvolatile Electronics

11409 West Valley View Road

Eden Prairie , MN 55439

Name and Address of Offeror (Firm Name, Mail Address,

City/State/Zip)

James M. Daughton

Nonvolatile Electronics, Inc.

11409 West Valley View Road

Eden Prairie , MN 55344-3617