Mast payload docking station
US6540198B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 27, 2001 |
| Grant date | Apr 1, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 27, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S224/929
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A docking station (10) comprises a mast latch assembly (12) which attaches to the outer end of a mast (M). An adapter (14) which connects to a sensor platform (G) disengagingly attaches to the mast latch assembly. An isolation assembly (16) mounts on a surface (D) of a vehicle (V) adjacent an opening (O) through which the mast extends and retracts. As the mast is retracted, the adapter (14) engages with isolation assembly (16) and disengages from the mast latch assembly. This attaches the sensor platform to the isolation assembly which now protects the sensors from vibrations produced by the vehicle and any shocks created by the terrain over which the vehicle travels. It also allows the sensors to be used for surveillance during vehicle travel. When the vehicle stops and the mast is again extended, the adapter (14) re-engages with the mast latch assembly and is disengaged from the isolation assembly.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.