Patent · US Expired

Spacecraft structure for orbital assembly and servicing

US4964596A · kind A · utility

49Cited by
7References
17Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateDec 11, 1987
Grant dateOct 23, 1990
Priority date—
Expiry dateDec 11, 2007

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
  • CPC primaryB64G1/223
  • WIPO fieldTransport
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

A spacecraft structure for orbital assembly and servicing includes a payload module, a propulsion module and a bus module each of these modules includes attachement means for separately attching to the cargo bay of the Shuttle directly and via planar cradles. The bus module includes module docking and latching fittings at each end and matching locking and latching fittings at one end of each of said payload and propulsion modules. The bus module includes sectionalized assemblies forming a matrix of identical cavities adapted to receive orbital replacement submodules that allow easy replacement of equipment in orbit by an astronaut.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.