William F Hummel

Title: Innovations of William F. Hummel

Introduction

William F. Hummel is a notable inventor based in Los Angeles, CA. He has made significant contributions to the field of aerospace engineering, particularly in satellite technology. With a total of 3 patents to his name, Hummel's work has had a lasting impact on how satellites operate in the Earth's magnetic environment.

Latest Patents

Hummel's latest patents include a method and apparatus for compensating for magnetic disturbance torques. This invention discloses a method for compensating for the disturbance torque on an orbiting satellite from the interference of the Earth's magnetic field lines with particular current loops associated with the satellite. The current flow in these current loops on the satellite is measured by a current sensing device. A scaling factor is applied to the measured currents to derive an estimated disturbance torque in particular axes of the satellite's attitude. The estimated magnetic disturbance torques are applied, along with other control torques, to a satellite actuation device, which actuates the satellite in the particular axes to compensate for the disturbance torques being applied to the satellite.

Another significant patent is the spacecraft earth-pointing attitude acquisition method. This method is designed for acquiring Earth-pointing attitude of a three-axis, body-stabilized spacecraft orbiting the Earth in a prescribed orbit plane, such as a geosynchronous communications satellite. The process includes aligning the roll axis of the spacecraft with the sun line, orienting the spacecraft to match the Earth-Sun angle, and finally rotating the spacecraft about its yaw axis to achieve the desired attitude relative to the orbit plane.

Career Highlights

Hummel has had a distinguished career at Hughes Aircraft Company, where he has been instrumental in developing advanced aerospace technologies. His innovative approaches have contributed to the success of various satellite missions.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Hummel has collaborated with esteemed colleagues, including John W. Smay and Carl L. Chen. These partnerships have fostered a creative environment that has led to groundbreaking advancements in satellite technology.

Conclusion

William F. Hummel's contributions to satellite technology through his patents and work at Hughes Aircraft Company highlight his importance in the field of aerospace engineering. His innovative methods for addressing magnetic disturbances and acquiring Earth-pointing attitudes are vital for the future of satellite operations.