초록 ▼

A docking device for space vehicles is disclosed wherein one coupling member of one vehicle is constructed as resiliently alignable telescopic rod having a head with latch structure which head is inserted in a coupling funnel of the other vehicle and having a latch trap in its bottom; the head slidi

A docking device for space vehicles is disclosed wherein one coupling member of one vehicle is constructed as resiliently alignable telescopic rod having a head with latch structure which head is inserted in a coupling funnel of the other vehicle and having a latch trap in its bottom; the head sliding along the funnel wall during insertion and the latch is actuated thereby. The alignment of the rod may be controlled by a homing beacon.

대표청구항 ▼

A docking and coupling structure connected to and associated with two space vehicles and respectively including first and second coupling devices comprising: said first device including a telescopic rod means carrying a head, there being retractable and protractable latch elements provided in said h

A docking and coupling structure connected to and associated with two space vehicles and respectively including first and second coupling devices comprising: said first device including a telescopic rod means carrying a head, there being retractable and protractable latch elements provided in said head; sensor means on said head; a platform mounted to the respective vehicle by means of a plurality of springs being eccentrically mounted to the platform and together supporting said telescopic rod means being mounted centrally on said platform permitting a resilient deflection of the axis of the telescopic rod means from a center axis defined with respective said vehicle having said first device; active control means for pivoting said telescopic mast for as to alter its direction, independently from any passive deflection on account of the plural springs; said second device including a coupling funnel having a bottom and bottom opening constructed as latch trap for receiving said head and said coupling and latch elements; means in the bottom opening of the funnel for cooperation with the sensor means such that the sensor means can locate the bottom opening; and an annular buffering and cushioning means on said telescopic rod means for centering and limiting insertion in said funnel upon docking.