Active tie-rod system for holding and smoothly releasing space appendages
US8757553B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 26, 2010 |
| Grant date | Jun 24, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 28, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64G1/443
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The present invention consists of an active tie-rod device making it possible to hold and smoothly release space appendages. The active tie-rod device includes a fixed base, an active tie-rod screwed into the said fixed base, a retractable release mechanism for the active tie-rod making it possible, in the stowed position, to hold the said active tie-rod in place, and a nut for tensioning the assembly. The active tie-rod includes an internal heater, and consisting at least partially of a material with a high coefficient of thermal expansion, so that, under the action of the internal heater, the active tie-rod can expand, retracting the retractable release mechanism for the active tie-rod, and consequently allowing the smooth release of the said space appendages.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.