초록 ▼

Latching elements on a first structure are configured to securely engage corresponding bearings on a second structure, via a lateral member that drives all of the latching elements simultaneously. When engaged, or when disengaged, the system is in a stable state, requiring no active force by the con

Latching elements on a first structure are configured to securely engage corresponding bearings on a second structure, via a lateral member that drives all of the latching elements simultaneously. When engaged, or when disengaged, the system is in a stable state, requiring no active force by the controlling system to maintain the system in each state. Preferably, each latching element is coupled to the lateral member via a pinion that provides a mechanical advantage that substantially reduces the force required on the lateral member to effect the coupling or decoupling. Also preferably, the elements are formed from extruded aluminum forms, thereby providing for a relatively inexpensive and lightweight configuration that is particularly well suited for spacecraft applications.

대표청구항 ▼

The invention claimed is: 1. A coupling device for coupling a first element to a second element, comprising:a first structure that is configured to be attached to the first element, and includes a plurality of transverse-mounted bearings;a second structure that is configured to be attached to the se

The invention claimed is: 1. A coupling device for coupling a first element to a second element, comprising:a first structure that is configured to be attached to the first element, and includes a plurality of transverse-mounted bearings;a second structure that is configured to be attached to the second element, and includes:a plurality of latch elements that are configured to engage the plurality of bearings via a rotation of the latch elements,a lateral member that is configured to provide the rotation of the latch elements via a lateral movement of the lateral member, anda plurality of pinions that are each configured to couple each corresponding latch element to the lateral member, to facilitate the rotation of each latch element,wherein each latch element of the plurality of latch elements includes a hook element that is configured to engage a corresponding bearing of the plurality of bearings and to apply a force that draws the first structure toward the second structure during the rotation of the latch element; andwherein each pinion includes a tang that engages an adjacent latch element to urge the adjacent latch element toward a latch position during the lateral movement of the lateral member.