Aeronautics and astronautics – Spacecraft – Rendezvous or docking
Reexamination Certificate
2011-01-04
2011-01-04
Dinh, Tien (Department: 3644)
Aeronautics and astronautics
Spacecraft
Rendezvous or docking
C244S172500
Reexamination Certificate
active
07861974
ABSTRACT:
A convex forward surface of a forward-biased probe head of a first portion of a docking system engages a central concave conical surface of a second portion of the docking system. A first linear actuator moves a flexible docking cable assembly relative to a support structure through bores therein and through the probe head. An aftward retraction of the docking cable assembly causes a linearly-actuated cam element thereof to rotate a rotary cam follower pivoted from the support structure, which engages an aft edge portion of the probe head, forcing the probe head forward. A plurality of distal coupling elements operatively coupled to the support structure around a central axis thereof engage with and become releasably captured by a corresponding socket and associated capture mechanism of a mating second portion of the docking system, and rigidized when the probe head is forced against the central concave conical surface.
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Hays Anthony Beckman
Pavlich Jane Camile
Ritter Greg Alan
Tchoryk, Jr. Peter
Wassick Gregory Joseph
Bonzell Philip J
Dinh Tien
Michigan Aerospace Corporation
Raggio & Dinnin, P.C.
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