Patent ID: 6315247
Filing Date: 2001-11-13
Classification: B64G

Abstract:
A spacecraft comprising:a spacecraft body;a movable structure coupled to the spacecraft body;positioning means for positioning the movable structure to a preselected location with respect to the spacecraft body, the positioning means being a rotatable mechanical joint which is operative to move the moveable structure to the preselected location;a holding mechanism for holding the movable structure in the preselected location, the holding mechanism including two mechanical members which are in physical contact and are movable with respect to each other; and,securing means for providing joinder of the two mechanical members upon the movable structure being located to the preselected position to prevent long-term unintentional movement between the two mechanical members, the securing means provides an approximately rigid interface between the two mechanical members and provides sufficient holding strength to hold the movable structure in the preselected location.