US 2003/0213873 A1 · IMPACT RESISTANT SURFACE INSULATION TILE FOR A SPACE VEHICLE AND ASSOCIATED PROTECTION METHOD

Abstract

An impact resistant insulation tile is provided that is capable of withstanding the impact of Micrometeriods and Other Debris (MMOD). The tiles are secured to an exterior surface of a Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV). A durable coating is applied to the exterior surface of a thermally insulative layer to fragment and slow down MMOD that collide with the tile. In addition, a shock layer may be embedded within the thermal insulator to further reduce the size and speed of MMOD particles. A ballistic strain isolator pad may also be located between the thermal insulator and the RLV structure to capture fragmented particles.

Claims27

Dependent claims

At least one tile secured to an exterior of a space vehicle for protecting said space vehicle from thermal and impact stresses comprising:

a thermal insulator for shielding said space vehicle from thermal stresses,
at least one outer coating disposed on an exterior surface of said thermal insulator for fragmenting particles upon impact,
at least one embedded shock layer within said thermal insulator for further fragmenting said particles, and
a strain isolator pad disposed on an interior surface of said thermal insulator and attached to said space vehicle to accommodate for differences in expansion and deflection between said space vehicle and said tile as a result of thermal and aerodynamic loading.

1 more element

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Impact resistant surface insulation tile for a space vehicle and associated protection method

Life of this patent

Impact resistant surface insulation tile for a space vehicle and associated protection method

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims27