E-systems, Inc.

Vought Corporation

John D Martin

Robert J Copeland

Mohamed A Abdelrazik

Boyd L Corcoran

Animal litter scoop

A helical-element antenna as part of a communication system is mechanically steered with reference to an azimuth axis and an elevation axis within a positioning envelope greater than hemispherical. The system for mechanically steering the helical antenna includes a supporting frame having an azimuth member with a longitudinal axis coinciding with the azimuth axis around which the antenna rotates. Further, the supporting frame includes an elevation member that is integral with the azimuth member and has a longitudinal axis displaced from the azimuth axis. An interface fitting rotatably mounts the antenna to the elevation member. The supporting frame is rotatably mounted to a pedestal base that has a plane perpendicular to the azimuth axis. To position the antenna about the azimuth axis, an azimuth steering unit is energized to rotate the supporting frame 360 degrees around the azimuth axis. For positioning the antenna about the elevation axis, an elevation steering unit rotates the interface fitting and the antenna through a gear coupling about the elevation axis. The total rotation excursion about the elevation axis is typically 180 degrees and points the antenna through a range of elevation angles.

Airborne antenna and a system for mechanically steering an airborne

Tool for inserting and removing a terminal lug cap

A solar power satellite (30) includes a truss structure (32) having a plurality of independently controlled solar power modules (34) mounted to one face of the truss structure. The solar power satellite is constructed in orbit by first forming and then assemblying component beam members (50, 52) to the truss structure. The solar power modules (34) are constructed on a fabrication and assembly station (36) movably attached to the truss structure and are then attached to the truss structure. The solar power modules (34) include a primary reflector (200) having a substantially parabolic curvature in cross section. A collector-radiator (202) is mounted on the primary axis of the primary reflector. The cross-sectional configuration of the collector-radiator (202) approximates a flattened inverted S-shape whereon the radius of curvature decreases as the curve approaches both its center and its end furthermost from the primary reflector (200). The primary reflector (200) is contoured to reflect sun light onto the collector-radiator structure (202). The collector-radiator structure includes a plurality of spaced radiant energy converting cells (450 ). A plurality of light reflective fins (452) are positioned between the converter cells. Each fin is thermally and electrically connected to converter cells on each side thereof. The fins provide radiant cooling of and series electrical connection between the converter cells. The fins also serve as a secondary reflector for concentrating sun light from the primary reflector onto the converter cells.

Solar power satellite

Growing community of inventors

Greenville, TX, United States of America

John D Martin