초록 ▼

A dispensing system for releasing a number of spacecraft from a launch vehicle. The dispensing system includes a base support structure securely fastened to a launch vehicle and a number of stacked frame assemblies. Each frame assembly includes a number of substantially parallel load bearing elongat

A dispensing system for releasing a number of spacecraft from a launch vehicle. The dispensing system includes a base support structure securely fastened to a launch vehicle and a number of stacked frame assemblies. Each frame assembly includes a number of substantially parallel load bearing elongated post elements and a shear load transferring structure. The post elements are so arranged and spaced so as to define a geometry having a centerline. Each post element has a first end portion and a second end portion. Each first end portion is connected to either another frame assembly or the base support structure of the launch vehicle. The post elements support a number of spacecraft. The spacecraft are supported between adjacent post elements. The shear load transferring structure is connected to the post elements for transferring shear loads between the post elements. The dispensing system also includes a plurality of longitudinally spaced stabilizers connected to desired locations on the post elements to increase the buckling capability of the dispensing system. The provision of a plurality of stacked frame assemblies provides a modular structure which does not require attachment to external supports other than via the base support structure.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed and desired to be secured by Letters Patent of the United States is:] [1.] A frame assembly for supporting a plurality of spacecraft relative to a base support structure of a launch vehicle or to another frame assembly for ultimate connection to the base support structure, said fra

[ What is claimed and desired to be secured by Letters Patent of the United States is:] [1.] A frame assembly for supporting a plurality of spacecraft relative to a base support structure of a launch vehicle or to another frame assembly for ultimate connection to the base support structure, said frame assembly, comprising:i) a plurality of substantially parallel load bearing elongated post elements, said post elements defining a geometry having a center line, each post element having a first end portion and a second end portion, each first end portion being connectable to either another frame assembly, or a base support structure of the launch vehicle, said post elements for supporting a plurality of spacecraft, the spacecraft being supported between adjacent post elements; andii) shear load transferring means connected to said post elements for transferring shear loads between said plurality of post elements wherein said shear load transferring means, comprises:a) an elongated hollow central body, said central body having a longitudinal central axis, said central axis and said center line being parallel, said central body being sufficiently sized to accommodate launch vehicle components, said central body comprising a plurality of openings for providing access for said launch vehicle components; andb) a plurality of radially extending arms, said arms being attached to said post elements,wherein the volume formed in said hollow central body contains launch vehicle components.