Apparatus for launching and deploying multiple satellites

US6276639A · kind A · utility

Assignee

• DaimlerChrysler Aerospace AG · DE

Inventors

• Ernst Hornung · Stuhr, DE
• Huba Ory · Aachen, DE
• Andreas Rittweger · Achim, DE
• Markus Quadt · Niederkassel, DE
• Peter A. Borgwardt · Portland, US
• Joerg Bolz · Bremen, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Dec 9, 1999
• Grant date: Aug 21, 2001
• Expiry date: Dec 9, 2019

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B64G1/6455
• WIPO field: Transport
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

An apparatus for launching and dispensing multiple satellites into orbit includes a central structure and a plurality of satellites releasably bundled around the central structure to form a cohesive, single payload mounted on an upper stage of a launcher rocket. The central structure includes a central tube and an adapter shell that fits onto the upper stage of the rocket. Each satellite has the shape of a partial cylinder segment of which an outer wall is a cylindrical segment shell. The satellites are bundled and secured together around the central structure by tension bands, whereby the cylindrical segment shells form a load-bearing complete outer cylindrical shell that surrounds the central tube. This structure provides sufficient stiffness and strength to withstand the loads that arise during launch, while having a reduced mass. The satellites themselves, rather than the central structure, bear the loads during launch. This allows the central structure to be of relatively lightweight construction.