Regulating electrical potential of space satellite - uses inertia type motor generators to absorb solar energy for return when cells are obscured

摘要

The space satellite is provided with solar cells which generate electrical energy when illuminated. This is stored in inertia type motor generators and is returned for use when the solar cells are temporarily in shadow. At least two motor generators are used, these being, in the form of dynamos. Each machine has a rotor with six magnetic poles, each comprising a magnet with a radial field their polarities alternating. The stators have four windings, spaced between the magnetic poles. The windings are positioned so that their wires cut the magnetic fields, the commutators being connected to produce the required properties.