A self-deployable array of panels includes a plurality of panels, each panel having a first compressed panel thickness state and a second expanded panel thickness state, and including a spring bias element biased to the second expanded panel thickness state. A plurality of locking hinges hingedly couple each of the panels to an adjoining panel. Each locking hinge is biased to an open position. A release of stored potential energy of both of the spring bias element biased to the second expanded panel thickness state, and the locking hinges biased to the open position causes the self-deployable array of panels to self-deploy from a folded stowed state. A single part offset locking hinge is also described.
Morphing self-stiffening array (MOSSA) and hinge
17.12.2024
Patent
Elektronische Ressource
Englisch
IPC: | E05D Scharniere oder andere Aufhängevorrichtungen für Türen, Fenster oder Flügel , HINGES OR OTHER SUSPENSION DEVICES FOR DOORS, WINDOWS, OR WINGS / B64G Raumfahrt , COSMONAUTICS / F16C SHAFTS , Wellen / H02S GENERATION OF ELECTRIC POWER BY CONVERSION OF INFRA-RED RADIATION, VISIBLE LIGHT OR ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT, E.G. USING PHOTOVOLTAIC [PV] MODULES , Erzeugung elektrischer Energie durch Umwandlung von Infrarot-Strahlung, sichtbarem Licht oder ultraviolettem Licht, z.B. unter Verwendung von Photovoltaik [PV]-Modulen |