SOLAR BATTERY (VERSIONS) Russian patent published in 2005 - IPC

FIELD: space engineering; spacecraft power supply systems.

SUBSTANCE: proposed solar battery includes panels foldable by "bellows" pattern and frame with drive mechanism. Panels are interconnected together and are connected with spacecraft through frame by means of drive springs and cable run with pulleys. Provision is made for articulated rods of adjustable length and locking units for locking the solar battery in folded and open positions and several contact components (pins, seats, pushers) for interaction of solar battery panels. Locking units are made in form of stops with elliptical holes and spring-loaded retainers. According to first version, solar battery includes fixed pulleys on spacecraft, intermediate pulleys on first panel of solar battery, brace movable relative to spacecraft, strut movably connected with frame and with brace (through spring) and stop engageable with brace. According to other version, drive mechanism is provided with engine and pulley connected with intermediate pulley by means of cable run. Engine and pulley are secured on spacecraft by means of bracket with elliptical locking holes. Movable unit of engine is fastened with frame and frame is provided with spring-loaded pins locked in locking holes of bracket in opening the solar battery.

EFFECT: enhanced reliability.

3 cl, 43 dwg