Patent ID: 6983914
Filing Date: 2006-01-10
Classification: B64G,Y10S

Abstract:
1. A solar cell panel assembly for deployment from a spacecraft, the solar cell panel assembly comprising: a first flexible solar panel comprising a plurality of solar cells; a rotational member having a first end and a second end; a first extension assembly disposed proximate to said first end of said rotational member; a second extension assembly disposed proximate to said second end of said rotational member; a first support member and a second support member, each having a first end and a second end, said first end of said first support member coupled to said first end of said rotational member and said first end of said second support member coupled to said second end of said rotational member, wherein said second ends of said first and said second support members are coupled to said first flexible solar panel; and a tether assembly that couples said first and second extension assemblies to said first and second support members.