Solid-state, Lightweight, Active-balance-system, Powered-by-light, (SLAP)

Advanced Technologies Group, Inc. proposes a Solid-state, Lightweight, Active-balance-system, Powered-by-light, (SLAP). The SLAP balancer will reduce or eliminate drive shaft vibrations caused by rotational dynamics of the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) lift fan drive shaft. Reduced shaft vibration will prevent drive shaft maintenance and improve support bearing life while reducing lift fan clutch wear. The innovative SLAP will not produce Electromagnetic interference, has low power consumption and is capable of millisecond response time. During phase II of this effort, Advanced Technologies Group, (ATG) will demonstrate the concept through full size rig tests. Several applications have been identified for the new technology including commercial aircraft utilizing variable pitch propellers.