Optical position pick-off in zero-drag satellite

Details Optical position pick-off in zero-drag satellite Optical position pick-off in zero-drag satellite

1977-05-16

1978-09-26

Dahl, Lawrence J.

Radiant energy

Photocells; circuits and apparatus

Photocell controls its own optical systems

244171, 250206, G01J 120

Patent

active

041173180

ABSTRACT:
An optical position pick-off for proof-mass in a zero-drag satellite is obtained by placing a spherical mass shielded from all forces except gravity, between a flat screen having four equally spaced photodetectors and a light source. The mass interrupts the light beam and casts a circular shadow on the screen, the periphery of which passes through the center of each of the detectors. A shift in the mass in any direction causes its shadow to cover more of certain detectors and less of others or more of all or less of all. The unbalance of the detectors may be used to actuate small jets to change direction of the satellite until the mass returns to its null position.

REFERENCES:
patent: 3439547 (1969-04-01), Slater
patent: 3499332 (1970-03-01), Fingerett et al.
patent: 3501967 (1970-03-01), De Cotiis
patent: 3532892 (1970-10-01), Murphy
patent: 3535525 (1970-10-01), Minkowitz
patent: 3654475 (1972-04-01), Montpas

Affiliated with

Also associated with

Rating

Optical position pick-off in zero-drag satellite does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this patent.

If you have personal experience with Optical position pick-off in zero-drag satellite, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Optical position pick-off in zero-drag satellite will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFUS-PAI-O-2091803