Engineering topics
Publications and source records attributed to Gralewski, Mark.
Conceptual antenna dish, solar collector, or similar structure consists of hexagonal panels supported by truss erected in field. Truss built in increments to maintain access to panel-attachment nodes. Each panel brought toward truss at angle and attached to two nodes. Panel rotated into attachment at third node.
Prototype probe-and-drogue attachment mechanism connects and disconnects parts quickly and locks them together positively. Probe intended to be capturing stud, and drogue is mating recess in panel to be captured, as described in "Easy Attachment Of Panels To A Truss" (LAR-14478). Accommodates large alignment error when parts brought together.