Space shuttle with a device for docking to a satellite
US8016242B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 5, 2008 |
| Grant date | Sep 13, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 5, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64G1/14
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A device provided on a space shuttle for docking to satellites, has a linkage with a cone at its distal end and a spreader mechanism, actuatable from the shuttle, with lever spreaders having their proximal ends provided with inward projections towards the linkage. At least two lever spreaders are pivotally arranged at a retaining part concentric to the linkage; the curvature at the distal end of each lever spreader is adapted to the curvature of the nozzle neck of the jet nozzle of a satellite engine. A rotatable sleeve concentric to the linkage is provided below the retaining part. A distal annular portion of the sleeve is formed with respective alternating engaging positions of different heights, and wherein, from the proximal end portion of the sleeve, two pins project that are guided by associated obliquely oriented slide faces in a stationary housing, the pins being provided for setting the adjustment travel of the linkage.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.