Spacecraft with deployable panel array
US6478261B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 2, 1998 |
| Grant date | Nov 12, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 2, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE05Y2900/502
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A spacecraft, such as a satellite, comprises a panel array including a plurality of panels that are rotatably coupled to one another. The panel array is movable between a folded state and an extended state. In the folded state, the panels are stacked atop one another. In the extended state, the panels are positioned such that active surfaces of the panels are aligned within a common plane. A plurality of hinge mechanisms preferably rotatably couple the panels to one another. The hinge mechanisms are configured to move the panel array from the folded state to the extended state without interfering with the active surfaces of the panels when the panel array is extended.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.