Patent ID: 6557475
Filing Date: 2003-05-06
Classification: F42B,Y10T

Abstract:
An automated mechanical separation system for releasably securing first and second structural members of a space vehicle together along mating edges thereof, comprising:a plurality of latches, each latch comprising: a male portion mounted in proximity to the edge of the first structural member; a female portion mounted in proximity to the edge of the second structural member; and a locking means mounted on one of the first and second structural members in proximity to the edge thereof, movable from a locked position securing said male portion to said female portion to an unlocked position unlocking said male portion from said female portion; and an automated mechanical assembly comprising means for sequentially moving said locking means of said plurality of latches from said locked position to said second position, to sequentially unlock said plurality of latches by a relative movement between each said male portion relative to its corresponding said female portion.