Patent ID: 6454214
Filing Date: 2002-09-24
Classification: B64G

Abstract:
A device for releasably connecting a first part and a second part of a spacecraft, comprising:a clamp operable to releasably connect the first part and the second part of the spacecraft and to store a prestress strain energy releaseable upon separation of the first part and second part of the spacecraft, the clamp comprising a first end and a second end; and at least one energy storing means operable to convert at least a portion of the prestress on the clamp to rotational energy upon opening of the clamp and separation of the first part and the second part of the spacecraft, the energy storing means comprising: a first fitting part comprising a threaded section, a second fitting part comprising a threaded section, and a connecting device comprising a threaded section complementary to and operable to engage the threaded section of the first fitting part and the second fitting part, wherein the connecting device is operable to link the first end and the second end of the clamp, and wherein during separation the fitting parts and the connecting device are operable to rotate in relation to one another to release the first fitting part and second fitting part from the connecting device.