Stowable and self-deployable parallelogram-type panel array
US5487791A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 25, 1994 |
| Grant date | Jan 30, 1996 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 25, 2014 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S136/292
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A stowable and self-deployable parallelogram-type panel array for solar cells. The array includes two sets of rigid panels, the panels of each set being hinged together, and the sets extending side-by-side along a central axis. The sets are foldable, and are pivoted together at their central points so as to form parallelogram-type structures. A respective yoke is hinged to each set to coordinate the movement of the sets. The yokes are hinged to a base on the opposite side of the axis from their respective set to provide greater structural stability and a higher first node resonant frequency. Deployment force is exerted by self-powered hinges, and are the only source of deployment force. The yokes are joined by gears to coordinate their rotation and thereby the stowing and deploying of the array.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.