Low weight, compactly deployable support structure
US8839585B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 19, 2010 |
| Grant date | Sep 23, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 19, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH01Q15/20
- WIPO fieldTelecommunications
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Deployable support structures include a six-bar linkage structure as a lateral facet of a truncated pyramid. The six-bar linkage structure comprises six articulated struts, each coupled to two others by a revolute joint to form a closed loop. The six-bar linkage structure is convertible from a deployed state into a folded state and vice versa. In the deployed state of one embodiment, the six-bar linkage structure forms a trapezoid with two opposing first and second parallel sides formed by two struts arranged in series and coupled by a revolute joint at the center of the parallel sides. In the folded state, the two struts of each parallel side are pivoted around the joint so that opposing end portions of the struts are located side by side. Scalable and modular deployable structures can be made for space applications as well as civil constructions such as domes, roofs, housing, tents, and bridges.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.