Fluid handling – Processes – With control of flow by a condition or characteristic of a...
Reexamination Certificate
2005-09-14
2009-10-13
Lee, Kevin L (Department: 3753)
Fluid handling
Processes
With control of flow by a condition or characteristic of a...
C137S557000, C137S843000, C137S859000
Reexamination Certificate
active
07600525
ABSTRACT:
Space vehicles such as space stations are often constructed as segmented inflatable structures which are susceptible to being punctured by small meteoric materials, resulting in small insidious leaks which are difficult to locate and repair. A method and apparatus are described in which a differential pressure transducer is positioned between segments of the space vehicle. Atmospheric gas pressure of all segments is continuously monitored. Analysis is performed on any pressure differentials which are determined to exist between adjacent segments. Detection of small leaks initiates an automatic isolation of the leaking segment. Detection of catastrophic leaks initiates an emergency evacuation of personnel from the affected segment.
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Zak, Anatoly “Cosmonaut's Flight Plan: Find the Leak on Mir” posted Mar. 31, 2000; http://www.space.com/missionlaunches/launches/mir—flight—plan—000331.html.
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Hughes Patrick J.
Leimkuehler Thomas O.
Patel Vipul P.
Honeywell International , Inc.
Lee Kevin L
Oral Caglar Esq.
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