Patent ID: 6047928
Filing Date: 2000-04-11
Classification: B64G,Y10S

Abstract:
A restraining device for holding a pair of springback reflectors on a satellite, the restraining device being movable between a stowed position and a deployed position, comprising:a pair of opposing arms with each arm having a lower hooked shaped portion and an upper portion;said upper portion of each of said pair of opposing arms being in communication with a separate bumper panel;at least one extension spring attached to each of said pair of opposing arms and extending therebetween;a piston device in communication with said lower hooked shaped portions of said pair of opposing arms to maintain the restraining device in said stowed position with said pair of arms spaced apart;a clamp being movable between a normally closed position, in communication with said piston biasing it into contact with said pair of opposing arms, and an open position not in communication with said piston;a bolt for maintaining said clamp in said normally closed position;a pyrotechnic device for shearing off said bolt and allowing said clamp to move to said open position;whereby said piston is allowed to move away from engagement with said pair of opposing arms, allowing said arms to move toward said deployed position thus deploying said springback reflectors.