Robotic satellite refuelling tool
US8448904B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 14, 2012 |
| Grant date | May 28, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 8, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB67D2007/0432
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A tool mounted on a servicer satellite for fuelling an unprepared or partially prepared client satellite. The tool includes a robotic arm mounted on the servicer satellite and a valve tool configured to be releasibly gripped by the robotic arm. The valve tool includes a housing with a support frame and a wrench mechanism mounted on the support frame. The wrench mechanism is configured for removing and replacing the first access valve cap on the first fill-drain valve and coupling a first propellant fill line to the first propellant tank optionally removing and replacing the second access valve cap on the second fill-drain valve on the second propellant tank and coupling a second propellant fill line to the second propellant tank, and actuating the valve actuation nut on the first fill-drain valve, and optionally actuating the valve actuation nut on the second fill-drain valve.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.