초록 ▼

A reusable, externally applied thermal protection system is disclosed and functions by utilizing shell tile structure 10 which effectively separates its primary functions as an insulator and load absorber. Tile 10 consists of structurally strong upper and lower metallic shells 12,16 manufactured fro

A reusable, externally applied thermal protection system is disclosed and functions by utilizing shell tile structure 10 which effectively separates its primary functions as an insulator and load absorber. Tile 10 consists of structurally strong upper and lower metallic shells 12,16 manufactured from materials meeting the thermal and structural requirements incident to tile 10 placement on the spacecraft. A lightweight, high temperature package of insulation 26 is utilized in upper shell 12, while a lightweight, low temperature insulation 28 is utilized in lower shell 16. Assembly of tile 10, which is facilitated by self-locking mechanism 20, may occur subsequent to installation of lower shell 16 on the spacecraft structural skin 30.

대표청구항 ▼

A shell tile adapted for use as a component part of a reusable, externally applied thermal protection system on the skin of aerospace vehicles and the like comprising: upper and lower metallic shells for assuming structural loads, each of said upper and said lower shell having a base and side portio

A shell tile adapted for use as a component part of a reusable, externally applied thermal protection system on the skin of aerospace vehicles and the like comprising: upper and lower metallic shells for assuming structural loads, each of said upper and said lower shell having a base and side portions, said lower shell base being attached to the vehicle skin and said upper shell being disposed opposite and joined at the side portion thereof to said lower shell, defining an interior cavity therebetween; insulating means interposed in said interior cavity; connecting means for attaching said lower shell base to the vehicle skin while permitting some relative movement therebetween; said connecting means including a floating nut plate integral with the vehicle skin, and bolting means integral with said lower shell for directly connecting said lower shell to the vehicle skin.