Solar arrays, deployment mechanisms therefor, and related methods

摘要

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.

主权项

1. A mechanism for deploying a solar array, the mechanism comprising:
an elongated deployment member operatively coupled to a deployment motor and routed along a first panel, along a first side of an extension coupled to the first panel, around a distal end of the extension, along a second side of the extension, and at least partially along a second panel coupled to the extension, the elongated deployment member configured to, upon retraction of the elongated deployment member by the deployment motor, move the extension into an extended position relative to the first panel and second panel and rotate the second panel about a hub located at a distal end of the extension.