Stud-propelling mechanisms for securing a launch vehicle to a landing platform, and associated systems and methods
US11884427B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 7, 2021 |
| Grant date | Jan 30, 2024 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 15, 2042 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64G2005/005
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Stud-propelling mechanisms for securing a launch vehicle to a landing platform, and associated systems and methods, are disclosed. A representative system includes a fastening mechanism carried by a landing support element of a portion of a launch vehicle, the mechanism configured to fasten the landing support element to the landing surface when the launch vehicle portion is on the landing surface. The fastening mechanism can include a barrel structure for propelling a stud and an interference portion positioned to receive the stud upon activation of an energetic material that propels the stud. The stud can bind in the interference portion and in the landing surface to fasten the landing support element to the landing surface. A representative method includes automatically fastening a portion of a launch vehicle to a landing surface using a stud carried by the portion of the launch vehicle.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.