Engineering topics
Publications and source records attributed to Barbour, R. T..
Toggle hinge allows deployable structures erected without end play encountered in conventional hinged structural members. New hinge ensures rigidity in portable bridges, masts, towers, platforms, and other deployable (and retractable) structures. Positioned halfway along length of folding strut, hinge allows halves of strut to pivot 180 degrees about center.
Device alines plug and receptacle axially and radially. Standard multiple-pin plug and socket mounted in mechanism. As threaded shaft moves out from its mounting bracket, two sets of petals engage each other and correct misalinement. Misalinement absorbed by spring-mounted swivels. Designed for umbilical cables between Space Shuttle and payload, mechanism adaptable to other remote or hazardous situations in which human not available to connect mating parts by hand.
The concept of a Test Article Building Block (TABB) is described. The TABB is a ground test article that is representative of a future building block that can be used to construct LEO and GEO deployable space platforms for communications and scientific payloads. This building block contains a main housing within which the entire structure, utilities, and deployment/retraction mechanism are stowed during launch. The end adapter secures the foregoing components to the housing during launch. The main housing and adapter provide the necessary building-block-to-building-block attachments for automatically deployable platforms. Removal from the shuttle cargo bay can be accomplished with the remote manipulator system (RMS) and/or the handling and positioning aid (HAPA). In this concept, all the electrical connections are in place prior to launch with automatic latches for payload attachment provided on either the end adapters or housings. The housings also can contain orbiter docking ports for payload installation and maintenance.
Concept proposed for separating electrical cable that connects the Space Shuttle to deployable payloads could be used to sever electrical connections in other inaccessible environments. Although triggered explosively, connector would not release combustion products that could damage sensitive electronics. Suggested applications are undersea exploration, chemical processing and areas with high levels of radiation.
Double hook latch provides preloading and support capability up to 80,000 pounds and opens self-energizingly when restraint linkage is released. It incorporates a double hook latch held closed by a toggle linkage attached to a flexible cable rigged in tension.