Space telescope
Space telescope drawings, mockup drawings, space support equipment, and Spacelab experiment hardware are discussed.
Pruett, E. C.↗
Engineering topics
Pruett, E. C.
Publications and source records attributed to Pruett, E. C..
Satellite retrieval system
A satellite retrieval system with first and second pairs of coacting parallel bars are separately mounted in spaced parallel planes on the front of a spacecraft. The bars of one pair are at right angles to bars of the other pair, and together the two pairs of bars effect a variable aperture adapted to close around a rod extending from a second spacecraft to effect the capture of the latter.
Pruett, E. C.↗
Device Acquires, Orients, and Clamps
Proposed mechanism secures an object in three stages: initial acquisition, alinement, and clamping. Originally developed to aid Space Shuttle crews in retrieving satellites, concept may also be useful in undersea work or as a machine-tool attachment for quick changes of tools.
Pruett, E. C.↗
Human factors and space technology: Notes on space related human factors research and development, history, faculties and future requirements
Explore the source record for details and available documents.
Shields, N., Jr.↗
Structural attachments for large space structures
The feasibility of fabricating beams in space and using them as components of a large, crew assembled structure, was investigated. Two projects were undertaken: (1) design and development of a ground version of an automated beam builder capable of producing triangular cross section aluminum beams; and (2) design and fabrication of lap joints to connect the beams orthogonally and centroidal end caps to connect beams end to end at any desired angle. The first project produced a beam building machine which fabricates aluminum beams suitable for neutral buoyancy evaluation. The second project produced concepts for the lap joint and end cap. However, neither of these joint concepts was suitable for use by a pressure suited crew member in a zero gravity environment. It is concluded that before the beams can be evaluated the joint designs need to be completed and sufficient joints produced to allow assembly of a complex structure.
Pruett, E. C.↗
EVA manipulation and assembly of space structure columns
Assembly techniques and hardware configurations used in assembly of the basic tetrahedral cell by A7LB pressure-suited subjects in a neutral bouyancy simulator were studied. Eleven subjects participated in assembly procedures which investigated two types of structural members and two configurations of attachment hardware. The assembly was accomplished through extra-vehicular activity (EVA) only, EVA with simulated manned maneuvering unit (MMU), and EVA with simulated MMU and simulated remote manipulator system (RMS). Assembly times as low as 10.20 minutes per tetrahedron were achieved. Task element data, as well as assembly procedures, are included.
Loughead, T. E.↗
Structural assembly in space
A cost algorithm for predicting assembly costs for large space structures is given. Assembly scenarios are summarized which describe the erection, deployment, and fabrication tasks for five large space structures. The major activities that impact total costs for structure assembly from launch through deployment and assembly to scientific instrument installation and checkout are described. Individual cost elements such as assembly fixtures, handrails, or remote minipulators are also presented.
Stokes, J. W.↗
The assembly of large structures in space - An evaluation of hardware configurations and assembly techniques through neutral buoyancy simulation
The implementation of NASA's Space Transportation System (STS) presents the opportunity for the on-orbit assembly of structures which, before the advent of multi-launch missions, were not possible because of their physical size. This report presents the results of an eight-month effort in the investigation of assembly techniques and hardware configurations used in assembly of the basic tetrahedral cell by A7LB pressure-suited subjects in Marshall Space Flight Center's Neutral Buoyancy Simulator. Eleven subjects participated in assembly procedures which investigated two types of structural members and two configurations of attachment hardware. The assembly was accomplished through extra-vehicular activity (EVA) only, EVA with simulated manned maneuvering unit (MMU), and EVA with simulated MMU and simulated remote manipulator system (RMS). Assembly times as low as 10.20 minutes per tetrahedron were achieved.
Loughead, T. E.↗
Development of concepts for satellite retrieval devices
The teleoperator being developed to augment the Space Transportation System (STS) for satellite placement, retrieval, or servicing at altitudes or orbital planes where it would be impractical to use the shuttle is primarily a general purpose propulsion stage that can be fitted with manipulator arms, automated servicers and satellite retrieval devices for particular missions. Design concepts for a general purpose retrieval device for docking with a satellite to which a grappling fixture has been attached, and for a retrieval device for docking with the Solar Maximum Mission (SMM) spacecraft were defined. The mechanical aspects of these two devices are discussed as well as the crew operations involved and problems created by the requirement for remote control. Drawings for the two retrieval device concepts are included.
Pruett, E. C.↗