초록 ▼

The present invention is directed to methods and apparatus relating to design, construction, integration and assembly of a space station. The present invention uses pre-integrated open (unpressurized) truss segments for modular construction of the space station. Each segment includes a truss structu

The present invention is directed to methods and apparatus relating to design, construction, integration and assembly of a space station. The present invention uses pre-integrated open (unpressurized) truss segments for modular construction of the space station. Each segment includes a truss structure and utility subsystems which may be fully assembled and tested on Earth. The segments may be latched together on orbit using a remote latching system. Utility subsystems, such as solar panels and radiators, are pre-integrated into the appropriate truss segment, and are deployable from the respective truss segment on orbit. Rails run lengthwise along the assembled truss. The rails may be used with a mobile transporter for translating truss segments with respect to the spacecraft as part of the space station assembly process. The rails may also be used with a mobile transporter for carrying crew personnel, a robotic arm, and other equipment.

대표청구항 ▼

A method for assembling a space station, comprising the following steps: assembling a first unpressurized truss structural segment on Earth; integrating utilities and subsystems into said first unpressurized truss structural segment while on Earth; functionally testing said integrated utilities and

A method for assembling a space station, comprising the following steps: assembling a first unpressurized truss structural segment on Earth; integrating utilities and subsystems into said first unpressurized truss structural segment while on Earth; functionally testing said integrated utilities and subsystems on Earth; placing said first unpressurized truss structural segment into a space shuttle orbiter; launching said space shuttle orbiter into low earth orbit; extending a docking connector from said space shuttle orbiter; removing said first unpressurized truss structural segment from said space shuttle orbiter; connecting said first unpressurized truss structural segment with said docking connector; translating said first unpressurized truss structural segment with respect to said docking connector; and releasing said first unpressurized truss structural segment with the docking connector into low earth orbit in a configuration suitable for subsequent docking with the space shuttle orbiter.