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Driving circuit and associated continuity-checking circuit enable use of latching relay switch instead of non-latching relay switch in 120-Vdc power-distribution system. Average power consumed reduced by about 15 W. Latching-relay driver and continuity checker provides automatic turnoff relay when power fails, or alarm indicating discontinuity in turn-off circuit, respectively.
This paper describes the preliminary development of a high force thermal latch (HFTL). The HFTL has one moving part which is restrained in the latched position by a low melting temperature or fusible metal alloy. When heated the fusible alloy flows to a receiving chamber and in so doing at first releases the tension load in the latch bolt and later releases the bolt itself. The HFTL can be used in place of pyrotechnically activated spacecraft release devices in those instances where the elimination of both pyrotechnic shock-loading and rapid strain-energy release take precedence over the near instantaneous release offered by ordnance initiated devices.
Shape memory alloy (SMA) actuators provide the highest force-to-weight ratio of any known actuator. They can be designed for a wide variety of form factors from flat, thin packages, to form-matching packages for existing actuators. SMA actuators can be operated many thousands of times, so that ground testing is possible. Actuation speed can be accurately controlled from milliseconds to position and hold, and even electronic velocity-profile control is possible. SMA actuators provide a high degree of operational flexibility, and are truly smart actuators capable of being accurately controlled by onboard microprocessors across a wide range of voltages. The Miga Aero actuator is a SMA actuator designed specifically for spaceflight applications. Providing 13 mm of stroke with either 20- or 40-N output force in two different models, the Aero actuator is made from low-outgassing PEEK (polyether ether ketone) plastic, stainless steel, and nickel-titanium SMA wires. The modular actuator weighs less than 28 grams. The dorsal output attachment allows the Aero to be used in either PUSH or PULL modes by inverting the mounting orientation. The SPA1 actuator utilizes commercially available SMA actuator wire to provide 3/8-in. (approx. =.1 cm) of stroke at a force of over 28 lb (approx. = .125 N). The force is provided by a unique packaging of the single SMA wire that provides the output force of four SMA wires mechanically in parallel. The output load is shared by allowing the SMA wire to slip around the output attachment end to adjust or balance the load, preventing any individual wire segment from experiencing high loads during actuation. A built-in end limit switch prevents overheating of the SMA element following actuation when used in conjunction with the Miga Analog Driver [a simple MOSFET (metal oxide semiconductor field-effect transistor) switching circuit]. A simple 2D machined mechanical binary latch has been developed to complement the capabilities of SMA wire actuators. SMA actuators typically perform ideally as latch-release devices, wherein a spring-loaded device is released when the SMA actuator actuates in one direction. But many applications require cycling between two latched states open and closed.
Combined attenuator and latch stops and latches in place a given mass which is to be moved a discrete distance to effect a desired condition. This device is used in a retraction actuator driven by a pyrotechnic thruster, and can be tailored to meet specific design requirements.
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.
Rachet device transfers loads imposed on latch to support structure before latch springs resist loads, positively locks two pivoted structures on contact, and carries loads in all directions.
In door mechanism, hinge and latch are combined in single four-part assembly. Latch eliminates need for protruding hook, and can be modified to lock door in ninety degree position.
A relatively simple system using a preloaded pneumatic piston latch with a pyrotechnic valve release was developed. The system was the only candidate that met all the imposed requirements utilizing reliable state-of-art components. The development of the latch system from its first use on Mariner '69 Mars Flyby Spacecraft through its most recent use on the Voyager Spacecraft that will fly to Jupiter and Saturn is reviewed.
An actuated latch pin developed to meet the need for a reusable locking device is described. The unit can function as a pin puller or as a pin pusher latch. Initial prototype testing demonstrated the feasibility of the device with the unit being driven from a 28 V dc supply and using 15 W to drive a 12 mm diameter pin through a stroke of 10 mm with a side load of 100 N in 120 ms. High wear rates with a MOS2 lubrication on the ballscrew and angular contact bearings have necessitated the reduction in the duty cycle from 1000 cycles in air and vacuum to 100 in air and 1000 in vacuum.
Sturdy latch tolerates 10 degrees of angular mismatch in joining structural elements. Hexagonal passive plate nests in active plate, guided by capture plates and alinement keys and grooves. Center hole in both active and passive plates is 1 meter in diameter. Latch has possible uses a pipe joint, connector for parts of portable structures, and fitting for marine risers on offshore drilling rigs.
A magnetically latching solenoid includes a pull-in coil and a delatching coil. Each of the coils is constructed with a combination of wire materials, including material of low temperature coefficient of resistivity to enable the solenoid to be operated at cryogenic temperatures while maintaining sufficient coil resistance. An armature is spring-based toward a first position, that may extend beyond the field of force of a permanent magnet. When voltage is temporarily applied across the pull-in magnet, the induced electromagnetic forces overcome the spring force and pulls the armature to a second position within the field of the permanent magnet, which latches the armature in the pulled-in position. Application of voltage across the delatching coil induces electromagnetic force which at least partially temporarily nullifies the field of the permanent magnet at the armature, thereby delatching the armature and allowing the spring to move the armature to the first position.
New latch secures fitting without displacing fitting and without regard to where on latch fitting makes intitial contact.
Latch fittings which kinematically mount the replaceable scientific instruments onto the Space Telescope must maintain precise alignment and thermal stability for on-orbit observations. Design features which are needed to meet stringent criteria include the use of ceramic isolators for thermal and electrical insulation, materials with different coefficients of thermal expansion for athermalization, precision manufacturing procedures, and extremely tight tolerances. A specific latch fitting to be discussed is a ball-and-socket design. In addition, testing, crew aids, and problems will be covered.
Latching relay requiring only single coil activated by trigger pulse and remains latched for timed interval during which it is immune to additional trigger pulses and noise.
The mechanical design of the keel latch is discussed, as well as the stress analysis of the keel latch. Background information; mechanical design requirements; some of the initial design considerations; the design considerations that led to the selection of the final design; the mechanics of the final design; testing that has been and will be accomplished to verify that design requirements have been met; and future tests are discussed.
The workings and function of the Preloader Vector Sensitive Latch are described. A discussion of docking systems used in the U.S. manned space flight programs is included to show how docking systems have evolved, and to highlight the potential advantages of a preloadable vector sensitive latch in such systems.
Vibration-resistant fastener replaces pinned or threaded fastener. Collet latch preloads joined components. When mechanism fully locked, actuating lever 90 degrees from starting position and held by locking tab engaged in ratchet notch. Latch connected or disconnected almost instantly, without tools.
Latching mechanism designed to be quick-acting, self-aligning, and rigid when set useful in applications where users cannot observe mating and latching process. Mechanism is driven-pin, rigidized-clevis device in which pin actuated by crank and slider. Crank turned by hand or by motor.