Device for holding down a mobile structure to a spacecraft

摘要

The device for holding down a mobile structure (4) to a spacecraft and for releasing said mobile structure (4) comprises a stationary structure (2) fixed to the spacecraft, an actuator (9), a releasable member (8) driven to movement in an axial direction (12) relative to the stationary structure (2) upon activation of the actuator (9) and a locking assembly arranged to hold down or release the mobile structure (4) depending on the axial position of the releasable member (8). The locking assembly comprises a plurality of circumferentially arranged locking members (10) being movable in a radial direction into and out of engagement with the mobile structure (4), the locking members (10) being connected to the releasable member (8) via first levers (5), such that the axial movement of the releasable member (8) and the radial movement of the locking member (10) are coupled with each other by way of a bent lever type mechanism.