Spacecraft payload positioning with respect to a virtual pivot point

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United States of America Patent

PATENT NO 8800935
APP PUB NO 20120228436A1
SERIAL NO

13044278

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ATTORNEY / AGENT: (SPONSORED)

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Abstract

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A spacecraft payload element is rotated by a mechanism about virtual pivot point (VPP) substantially distant from the mechanism. The mechanism couples the payload element to a spacecraft main body structure, and has a four-bar linkage configured to rotate the payload element about a virtual pivot point (VPP). The VPP may be proximate to the focus or center of gravity (cg) of the payload element. Rotation of the payload element about the VPP may be controlled by linear or rotary actuators which drive the four-bar linkage. The four-bar linkage may be configured to provide a mechanical advantage to the actuator.

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Patent Owner(s)

  • SPACE SYSTEMS/LORAL, LLC

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Inventor(s)

Inventor Name Address # of filed Patents Total Citations
Francis, Colin M Redwood City, US 3 36

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