Satellite orientation arrangement of flywheel and rotary motor - regulates speed so as to damp oscillations and prevent over-stress of e.g. solar panels

摘要

A frame (SR1) carrying the flywheel (R) is suspended in the satellite (SAT) with its pivot axis (A1) parallel to the desired axis of reorientation. The axis (A2) of the flywheel and its torsion vector are at right angles to the pivot axis (A1). The motor rotates the satellite about the axis when necessary. The frame (SR1) changes its position in space insignificantly during rotary acceleration and movement, forming an abutment for the motor. USE/ADVANTAGE - Esp. with spin-stabilised geostationary telecommunication or weather satellite. Reduced gas consumption allows longer lasting missions or use of smaller reservoirs.