Device for controlling the retraction of a mobile structure
US5722510A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 5, 1996 |
| Grant date | Mar 3, 1998 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 5, 2016 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64G1/44
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A unit for controlling the retraction of a mobile structure such as a mirror used for calibrating an optical system on board a spacecraft, which includes a spring which permanently forces the mobile structure towards its retracted position and a memory material member, wherein a change of state of the memory material disconnects a connecting system placed in a transmission mechanism normally connecting a control motor to the mobile structure. The connecting system normally ensures the joining by friction of two parts of the transmission mechanism between which the spring acts. A heating system controls the change of state of the memory material member.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.