Space-based gas supply system
US11591115B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 16, 2021 |
| Grant date | Feb 28, 2023 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 16, 2041 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64G1/646
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A transfer system for supplying a receiving tank of a receiving spacecraft with a supply gas from a supply spacecraft. A transfer tank is disposed on the supply spacecraft and configured to retain a supply gas. A transfer line is coupled to the transfer tank, and one end thereof may be coupled to the receiving tank. A transfer valve is operatively coupled to the transfer line. A heating system is thermally coupled to the transfer tank. A control system is operatively coupled to the transfer valve and the heating system. The control system is operable to cause a transfer quantity of the supply gas to be heated, and to open the transfer valve, such that a difference between the increased pressure of the supply gas in the transfer tank and a pressure in the receiving tank causes the transfer quantity of the supply gas to flow to the receiving tank.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.