MINI-SATELLITE FOR CLUSTER AND ACCOMPANYING LAUNCH Russian patent published in 2007 - IPC B64G1/10 B64G1/22 B64G1/44 B64G1/64 

FIELD: satellites of small mass and methods of mounting them on carriers.

SUBSTANCE: proposed mini-satellite has body in form of parallelepiped, solar battery panels secured on its side plates and units for connection with separation system which are located on one of side plates and on end plate. Each panel is made in form of tip and root parts articulated together. Root parts of panel are articulated on side plate of mini-satellite body where connection units are mounted. Mechanical locks mounted on opposite side plate are used for interconnecting the tip parts of panels and for connecting them with body. Articulation units are provided with drives for turning of parts. Articulation units are located above mechanical locks relative to plate on which these locks are mounted. Novelty of invention consists in reduction of area of end part of mini-satellite by 35%, reduction of its height in center of cross section by 23%, reduction of mass by 6-7% and increase of density of arrangement by 17-18%.

EFFECT: enhanced efficiency; increased number of mini-satellites carried on adapter.

7 dwg