Space structure deployment system

摘要

A method and apparatus for deploying a space structure. The space structure is secured to a base with release mechanisms that engage features of the space structure when the base is in a first position. The base is moved from the first position to a second position to deploy the space structure. The release mechanisms are moved at substantially a same time to disengage from the features and release the space structure from the base without imparting a transverse load to the space structure when the base moves from the first position towards the second position to deploy the space structure.

主权项

1. An apparatus comprising:
a base that is moveable; and release mechanisms associated with the base, wherein the release mechanisms engage features of a space structure to secure the space structure to the base when the base is in a first position and the release mechanisms move at substantially a same time to disengage from the features and release the space structure from the base during acceleration without imparting a transverse load to the space structure, the release mechanisms including: a lever that has a closed position to secure one of the features and the space structure, and rotates to an open position in a manner that allows the feature and space structure to move, wherein an elongate structure extending from a surface of a housing holds the lever in the closed position and wherein when the lever rotates from the closed position to an open position the lever does not contact the feature or other portions of the space structure when the space structure moves within the housing, to thereby reduce transverse loads during movement of the base to deploy the space structure.