Gravity Offload System

Concepts

• didcot
• industrial robots
• gravity offload system
• gravity
• system
• offload
• space craft
• l x w x h
• m
• orbit

Location

DIDCOT

Description

An overhead gantry system that will enable simulation of orbital environments by off-loading the effect of gravity on a suspended object. The system provided will installed in the Catapult's existing facility and will cover an area of 6m x 6m x 6m (l x w x h) and capable of carrying a 150kg payload. The system will be required to suspend objects in a free-floating manner but be able to move the object when a force is applied to it, thus simulating the in-orbit dynamics experienced during contact between space craft. Installation & commissioning of the system is to be included by the supplier.

Award Detail

CPV Codes

• 42997300 - Industrial robots

Indicators

Legal Justification

A full procurement exercise (ref: SAC-24-036) was undertaken. There was one response to this exercise from Jacobs Clean Energy Ltd in March which exceeded our available budget. We have since tested the supply chain in the market and adjacent markets including national and international suppliers. We have received no further credible proposals to deliver this solution in the timescale so have decided to proceed which a revised version of the Jacobs Clean Energy Ltd solution. Please note that the FTS notice for this is ref 2024/S 000-004651.