Patent ID: 7036423

Claim:
A mechanism-forming device, in particular for use in space, the device comprising: two structural elements ( 100 , 200 ) suitable for relative displacement; blocking means ( 300 ) suitable initially for preventing relative displacement between the two structural elements ( 100 , 200 ); and locking means ( 400 ) for controlled locking of the blocking means ( 300 ), suitable initially for preventing any release thereof, then on command, and successively, initially causing the blocking means ( 300 ) to slide through a controlled amplitude suitable for releasing stress between the two structural elements ( 100 , 200 ) and then in a second stage causing complete release of the blocking means ( 300 ) and thus of the structural elements ( 100 , 200 ), wherein the locking means ( 400 ) comprise at least one element ( 460 , 480 ) made of low-melting point material, and heater means ( 440 ) of suitable power.