Spacecraft multifunction connecting mechanisms including interchangeable port opening docking mechanisms, and associated systems and methods
US11560243B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 22, 2019 |
| Grant date | Jan 24, 2023 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 1, 2041 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64G1/60
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A representative spacecraft system includes a connecting device, which in turn includes a housing having a common port opening, a first connecting element carried by the housing and positioned to connect with a corresponding first spacecraft connecting structure having a first configuration, and a second connecting element carried by the housing and positioned to connect with a corresponding second spacecraft connecting structure having a second configuration different than the first configuration. At least one of the first and second connecting elements is moveable relative to the other between an operational position and a non-operational position, and each of the first and second connecting elements, when connected to the corresponding first or second spacecraft connecting structure, is positioned to allow transport through the common port opening.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.