초록 ▼

A highly reliable release apparatus which is used to stow or release desired devices such as, for example, solar arrays, antenna positioning mechanisms, reflectors, found on satellites, space stations or spacecraft. Deployment of the desired device is prevented or allowed by respectively restraining

A highly reliable release apparatus which is used to stow or release desired devices such as, for example, solar arrays, antenna positioning mechanisms, reflectors, found on satellites, space stations or spacecraft. Deployment of the desired device is prevented or allowed by respectively restraining or releasing a first member under tension. The apparatus comprises a support member having an opening and a first face arranged about the opening. A second member is located within the opening when the first member is in tension and is adapted to be attached to an end of the first member. At least three locking members such as fuse wires are arranged on the first face of said support member for restraining the second member within the opening in order to maintain tension on the first member. The second member is attached to the first member in a manner such that at least two of the fuse wires must be severed before the restraint on the second member is released. A system is provided for actuating the release apparatus by selectively severing at least two of the locking members when deployment of the device is desired.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A highly reliable release apparatus for controlling the deployment of a device by restraining or releasing a first member under tension which respectively prevents or allows the deployment of the device, the apparatus comprising:a support member having an opening, the sup

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A highly reliable release apparatus for controlling the deployment of a device by restraining or releasing a first member under tension which respectively prevents or allows the deployment of the device, the apparatus comprising:a support member having an opening, the support member having a first face about said opening;a second member capable of being attached to said first member, the second member being located within said opening when said first member is in tension;at least three destructible locking members arranged on said first face of said support member for restraining said second member within said opening in said support member in order to maintain tension on said first member;said second member being attached to said first member in a manner such that at least two of said locking members must be severed before the restraint on said second member is released; anda control system for actuating said release apparatus by selectively severing at least two of said locking members when deployment of said device is desired.