Solar arrays, deployment mechanisms therefor, and related methods
US9352853B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 14, 2013 |
| Grant date | May 31, 2016 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 13, 2033 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E10/50
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Mechanisms for deploying a solar array include an elongated deployment member routed along a first panel, along an extension, and at least partially along a second panel. The elongated deployment member is configured to, upon retraction of the elongated deployment member by a deployment motor, move the extension into an extended position and rotate the second panel about a hub located at a distal end of the extension. Solar array assemblies include such a mechanism. Methods of deploying a solar array include retracting an elongated deployment member to rotate an extension into an extended position and further retracting the elongated deployment member to rotate a panel coupled to the extension approximately 360° about a hub of the extension.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.