Furlable sail devices, systems, and methods
US11292619B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 27, 2019 |
| Grant date | Apr 5, 2022 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 27, 2039 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64G1/62
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Furlable sail devices, systems, and methods are provided in accordance with various embodiments. For example, some embodiments include a system and/or device that may include: a furlable boom; a furlable sail coupled with a distal end of the furlable boom; and/or a shear take-up mechanism coupled with a root end of the furlable sail. In some embodiments, the shear take-up mechanism applies tension to the furlable sail. The shear-take up mechanism may include one or more springs coupled with the root end of the furlable sail. In some embodiments, the furlable sheet includes a structural sheet. The structural sheet may include one or more areas with bending stiffness. The structural sheet may be fabricated to be self-supporting. In some embodiments, the furlable boom includes a slit-tube boom. Some embodiments may be configured as deorbit sails.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.