Innovators at NASA's Johnson Space Center (JSC) have developed and patented a method and apparatus for a sensor-based miniature data acquisition system that receives, amplifies, and filters signals. The invention allows many instrument channels to be fabricated on a single chip without the need for external capacitors and without devoting excessive chip area to capacitors. NASA developed the technology to provide for remote operation of the human-like hand of its Robonaut, a prototype robotic astronaut assistant. The innovation uses continuous time operational amplifier circuits made from specialty analog complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) processors and two stages of instrumentation amplifier circuitry, resulting in higher gain and sensitivity. Overall, the design is simpler and less prone to noise than conventional systems. JSC has received patent number 6,943,621 for this technology.
- Versatile: Accommodates a range of sensors
- Adaptable: Allows for a large number of channels
- Compact: Features an efficient design
- Instrumentation, signal conditioning, and data acquisition systems
- Electronic equipment with sensors
- Motor vehicles
- Consumer and commercial robotics
Johnson Space Center has received patent protection (U.S. 6,943,621→) for this technology.
This technology is being made available through JSC's Technology Transfer and Commercialization Office, which seeks to transfer technology into and out of NASA to benefit the space program and U.S. industry. NASA invites companies to consider licensing this technology for commercial applications.
If you would like more information about this technology or about NASA's technology transfer program, please contact:
Technology Transfer and Commercialization Office
NASA's Johnson Space Center