Strut dispenser for erecting truss structures in extraterrestrial space

摘要

An apparatus (10) for dispensing struts (11 and 12) for use by an astronaut in erecting a truss structure in extraterrestrial space comprises a frame to which a platform (16) is attached. The astronaut anchors himself to the platform (16) while erecting the truss structure. Pairs of retainer assemblies for securing opposite ends of struts of different lengths, i.e., the pair of retainer assemblies (22 and 23) for the struts (11), and the pair of retainer assemblies (22' and 23') for the struts (12), are also attached to the frame. One retainer assembly (22 or 22') from each pair is positioned within the astronaut's reach when he is anchored to the platform (16), and the other retainer assembly (23 or 23') from each pair is positioned remote from the astronaut's reach. Each of the remote retainer assemblies (23 and 23') comprises a plurality of spring-loaded receptacles (41) for receiving one end of the corresponding struts (11 or 12). Each of the retainer assemblies (22 and 22') within the astronaut's reach comprises a plate having recesses (51) for receiving the other end of the corresponding struts (11 or 12). Putting a strut (11 or 12) into, or removing a strut (11 and 12) from, the apparatus (10) is accomplished by pushing the strut (11 or 12) against the bias of the corresponding spring-loaded receptacle (41), so that the end of the strut (11 or 12) received by the corresponding recess (51) is able to clear the retainer assembly (22 or 22').