Triggered satellite deployment mechanism
US10538348B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 19, 2016 |
| Grant date | Jan 21, 2020 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 26, 2038 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64G1/6457
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Provided herein are various improvements to satellite or payload deployment systems and equipment. In one example, a satellite deployment apparatus is provided. The satellite deployment apparatus includes opposing retention members configured to engage protrusions of a satellite and hold the satellite with respect to a baseplate. The satellite deployment apparatus includes at least one pusher element configured to preload a deployment force on the satellite against the opposing retention members when the protrusions of the satellite are captive in the opposing retention members, and a deployment mechanism configured to spread the opposing retention members responsive to triggering by an actuator system and release the protrusions of the satellite for deployment of the satellite away from the baseplate using at least the deployment force.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.