Space shuttle with a device for docking to a satellite
US8033508B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 31, 2007 |
| Grant date | Oct 11, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 4, 2028 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64G1/646
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
In a space shuttle with a device for docking to a satellite, especially a communication or navigation satellite, at least two spreading elements in the form of lever spreaders are pivotally disposed at a retaining part of the docking device, which is concentric to a linkage. The lever spreaders have their proximal ends—relative to the space shuttle—provided with inward projections projecting inward towards the linkage, which inward projections engage in a recess formed in the linkage when the lever spreaders, spread apart to a defined opening angle by the cone of the linkage. When the linkage is retracted further, a pressure spring is compressed. At the same time, the lever spreader caught in the recess are retracted so far that the ends of the lever spreaders, spread apart in a defined manner, positively abut the inner wall of the nozzle neck.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.