Modular spacecraft structure
US6568638B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 7, 2000 |
| Grant date | May 27, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 24, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64G1/223
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A spacecraft structure formed of one or more interchangeable modules is disclosed. The modules have two planar surfaces that cooperate to form a cavity, in which spacecraft equipment is housed. The modules are movable from a substantially stacked configuration to a substantially planar configuration. The disclosed spacecraft structure results in an increased ability to dissipate heat, a facilitated integration and testing process, a facilitated servicing process, a more efficient operational environment, and a more efficient use of space. The spacecraft design results in reduced spacecraft manufacturing, test and integration time, which will reduce overall cost, compared to present designs. The spacecraft in deployed, substantially planar configuration can be oriented with a planar surface facing toward or away from Earth or any suitable orientation between these extremes. As a result of the modularity and deployable in-orbit features, some portions of the structure may be deployed at right angles if required by mission constraints.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.