Description of the SD-1 High-Speed Axial Rotation Device

Abstract

A high-speed axial rotation device capable of carrying animal subjects, the SD-1, was constructed and evaluated for vestibular research at the University of Iowa. The device can be controlled automatically by using a Data-Trak curve-follower programmer, or manually if desired. The drive system for the device is a Schaevitz GSD2PR variable-speed motor with associated electronic components, including a solid-state power supply with excellent voltage regulation capability. The rotating module is dynamically balanced to insure maximum performance and personal safety. Above 50 degrees/sec, angular velocity of the device increases linearly with increases in setting of the speed-control potentiometer. Control of angular velocity can be maintained constant ±0.20% for any specific setting of the speed-control potentiometer. Control of angular acceleration and deceleration is excellent over the range from 1 degree/sec² to 3 × 10³ degrees/sec². By utilizing either the programmer or plugging unit, angular accelerations and decelerations of constant linearity can be obtained. The SD-1 provides a sufficient range of angular velocities and angular accelerations for conducting a variety of experiments in vestibular research; it is particularly suited for providing the maximal and supramaximal levels of stimulation necessary for the efficient production of vestibular suppression.