Debris removal device and debris removal method
US10407184B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 3, 2017 |
| Grant date | Sep 10, 2019 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 5, 2037 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64G1/648
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A debris removal device includes: an end mass adapted to approach debris to be removed; a debris capture device separably-mounted on the end mass; and a tether connecting the debris capture device and the end mass to each other. The debris capture device includes a harpoon adapted to penetrate into the debris, a shooting device adapted to shoot the harpoon, a guide member positioned to come into contact with the surface of the debris to adjust the shooting angle of the harpoon with respect to the surface of the debris, and a switch that sends the shooting signal to the shooting device. When the harpoon is penetrated into the debris, the end mass is separated from the debris capture device, and the tether is released into outer space.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.