Sealing of multi-layer insulation blankets for spacecraft
US11970292B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 14, 2022 |
| Grant date | Apr 30, 2024 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 28, 2042 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64G2004/005
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
To facilitate on-orbit servicing, such as for a refueling operation, techniques are presented for a servicing satellite to cut through the multi-layer insulation blanket of a client satellite to provide access to the client satellite without releasing unacceptable quantities of foreign object debris from the multi-layer insulation. The serving satellite includes a sealing tool, such as a pair of heater rollers, that apply pressure and heat to the insulating blanket to melt the inner layers and seal the outer layers together. The servicing satellite can then use a cutting tool to cut the sealed region and access the client satellite.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.