초록 ▼

Large angular control moments and torques are developed by controllably circulating a relatively small mass of liquid (22) through small diameter pipes (20) describing a large diameter loop (15f,a,b). The loop (15), by thus generating and storing angular momentum, can thereby provide efficient cance

Large angular control moments and torques are developed by controllably circulating a relatively small mass of liquid (22) through small diameter pipes (20) describing a large diameter loop (15f,a,b). The loop (15), by thus generating and storing angular momentum, can thereby provide efficient cancellation of periodic, non-accumulating, externally induced rotational disturbances. The loop (15) is preferably located on or near the periphery of a structure (10) which is to be thus stabilized.

대표청구항 ▼

A method for controlling and maintaining in any desired stable attitude a delta shaped space station in low earth orbit, comprising: installing three independent, planer, fluidic loops containing fluid having a density and viscosity approximating that of water or less around the periphery of three n

A method for controlling and maintaining in any desired stable attitude a delta shaped space station in low earth orbit, comprising: installing three independent, planer, fluidic loops containing fluid having a density and viscosity approximating that of water or less around the periphery of three non-parallel faces of the delta shaped space station; providing means responsive to disturbances produced by aerodynamic and gravity gradients of the delta shaped space station for generating signals proportional thereto; and providing means in each loop responsive to said signals for propelling said fluid through said loop in a direction and a speed and velocity to generate control torque and momentum counteracting said disturbances.