Expandable systems for space
US11724833B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 24, 2019 |
| Grant date | Aug 15, 2023 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 10, 2041 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64G1/2227
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Systems for insulating a space vehicle or space borne container from an external environment as well as cryogens from heat sources. Such systems also protect the vehicle from the high dynamic pressures, the high heat loads encountered in atmospheric flight, and provide storage capability that strongly limits, or effectively eliminates, cryogenic boil-off losses once in space. Such systems include an expandable structure having a plurality of contiguously adjacent expandable layers. The layers are connected by a plurality of tension connectors between successive layers. For launch and flight the layers can be restrained in a collapsed position. Whereupon exiting a free stream environment, the layers are expanded where they can lock into place or otherwise remain in an expanded state. The expansion creates separation between the layers with minimal conduction paths providing near theoretically perfect multi-layer insulation and extremely effective debris protection.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.