MODULE-TYPE LAUNCH VEHICLE (VERSIONS) Russian patent published in 2007 - IPC B64G1/00 B64G1/26 

FIELD: rocketry and space engineering; multi-module launch vehicles of cluster arrangement at transfer of propellant among modules.

SUBSTANCE: proposed launch vehicle has central and side modules; it may be made in three versions at various modifications. According to first version, propellant for transfer is so distributed that each side two-tank module has excessive amount of only one propellant component. Each of these modules is provided with one inter-module main for transfer of propellant components. Some modifications of first version make use of displacement system for delivery of propellant component from upper tanks of side modules to lower tank of central module. According to second and third versions, use is made of one-tank side modules filled with different propellant components. In some modifications of these versions, modules are combined in clusters and are interconnected by means of simplified inter-module propellant lines. Propellant system of launch vehicle is simplified due to specialization of modules excluding dangerous processes. Efficiency is enhanced at use of kerosene-liquid oxygen propellant and engines of "closed" system employed in Russia.

EFFECT: low cost of manufacture and operation of launch vehicle; enhanced reliability.

11 cl, 18 dwg