SPACECRAFT NUCLEAR POWER PLANT Russian patent published in 2004 - IPC

FIELD: auxiliary components and systems of spacecraft nuclear power plants. SUBSTANCE: proposed nuclear power plant includes power unit with nuclear reactor, radiation shielding and devices of liquid-metal cooling loop which are axially located in series. Power unit is provided with extension system and cooler-radiator whose radiating panels are mounted on articulated beams. Beams are folded in launching position over three longitudinal planes around power unit. At extension of unit, beams unfold and get fixed forming three-rod bearing truss. Electric lines of nuclear power plant are located on said beams which are arranged in pairs; each pair of beams is fastened with adjacent pair in folded state by means of pyro bolt. Extension system includes electric drive with drum on which gas-tight hose is wound. Said hose is connected with pressure accumulator through reducer ; hold-down shaft is provided at point where hose runs off drum. Provision is made for rope guys found between power unit and spacecraft for enhancing stability of unit extension procedure by means of inflatable hose. EFFECT: reduced mass and overall dimensions due to reduction of disturbing moment at extension of power unit. 2 cl, 2 dwg