Patent ID: 6708928
Filing Date: 2004-03-23
Classification: B64G

Abstract:
A variable spacer for a separation system of a launch vehicle, the variable spacer comprising:a laminate plate comprised of a plurality of fiber layers that are bonded together by a resin material, said plurality of fiber layers intended to strengthen said laminate plate, said laminate plate having a first surface and a second surface, said laminate plate having a hole integrally formed therein and extending from said first surface to said second surface, said hole being intended to receive a bolt therethrough for attaching a first wall to a second wall, said resin material having a desired thermal expansion coefficient for causing said laminate plate to substantially change in thickness so as to regulate a preload within said bolt, said laminate plate having a first thickness, said laminate plate having a second thickness when said laminate plate is compressed for attaching said first wall to said second wall, said laminate plate having a third thickness when a plate temperature of said laminate plate is raised to an elevated temperature, said laminate plate having a fourth thickness when said plate temperature of said laminate plate is reduced to a lowered temperature; and a heating element integrally formed within said laminate plate and intended to heat said resin material.