Collapsible structures with adjustable forms

US8109472B1 · kind B1 · utility

Assignee

• Composite Technology Development, Inc. · US

Inventors

• Philip N. Keller · Longmont, US
• Robert Taylor · Superior, US
• Larry Adams · Arvada, US
• Adam G. Gray · Broomfield, US
• Naseem Munshi · Lafayette, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jan 26, 2011
• Grant date: Feb 7, 2012
• Expiry date: Jan 26, 2031

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y10T29/49826
• WIPO field: Transport
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

Structures and methods are disclosed regarding deployable structures with expandable longerons adjustably coupled with supporting structures such that an angle between the supporting structures can be adjusted. Such structures can include and/or be used for solar arrays, bridges, support structures, and more. These structures can be easily transported to a new location and deployed from the stowed configuration into a larger functional structure. In some embodiments these structures can use one or more longerons that can have two resting states: deployed and rolled.