Colin Morton Francis

US Patent:

6424314, Jul 23, 2002

Filed:

May 16, 2001

Appl. No.:

09/859077

Inventors:

Varouj G. Baghdasarian - Cupertino CA
Colin Francis - Redwood City CA

Assignee:

Space Systems/Loral, Inc. - Palo Alto CA

International Classification:

H01Q 302

US Classification:

343882, 343766, 343DIG 2

Abstract:

A support for a deployable reflector for use on a modular satellite antenna assembly is constructed of an elongated boom supported at both ends by a pair of two axis actuators. The boom is attached at its inboard end to the satellite structure in close proximity to the point of attachment of the associated signal feed assembly to minimize the differential thermal stress throughout the antenna assembly.

US Patent:

20120228436, Sep 13, 2012

Filed:

Mar 9, 2011

Appl. No.:

13/044278

Inventors:

Colin M. FRANCIS - Redwood City CA, US

Assignee:

SPACE SYSTEMS/LORAL, INC. - Palo Alto CA

International Classification:

B64G 1/66
G05G 1/00
B64G 1/22

US Classification:

2441733, 74469

Abstract:

A spacecraft payload element is rotated by a mechanism about virtual pivot point (VPP) substantially distant from the mechanism. The mechanism couples the payload element to a spacecraft main body structure, and has a four-bar linkage configured to rotate the payload element about a virtual pivot point (VPP). The VPP may be proximate to the focus or center of gravity (cg) of the payload element. Rotation of the payload element about the VPP may be controlled by linear or rotary actuators which drive the four-bar linkage. The four-bar linkage may be configured to provide a mechanical advantage to the actuator.