Abstract:
A method for measuring the masses of objects in any gravity environment, including microgravity or zero gravity. An object is placed on or attached to a platform or holder having a motor for rotating the platform. The object is rotated at an angular velocity and its centrifugal force is measured. Values representing the centrifugal force, the angular velocity, the tare mass of the platform, as well as a radial distance, are used to calculate the mass of the object. Three different variations of the method use different radial distance values.
Patent Number:
5,900,590
Date Of Issue:
05/03/1999
Inventors:
Ruell Floyd Solberg, Jr.; Richard Lorenz
Full Text: