Collapsible structures

US8393581B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Composite Technology Development, Inc. · US

Inventors

• Philip N. Keller · Longmont, US
• Robert Taylor · Superior, US
• Doug Richardson · Westminster, US
• Adam G. Gray · Broomfield, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Nov 22, 2011
• Grant date: Mar 12, 2013
• Expiry date: Nov 22, 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.