System and method for transportation and storage of cargo in space
OwnerWalter P. Kistler, Robert A. Citron +1inventors
InventorsWalter P. Kistler, Robert A. Citron, Thomas C. Taylor
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Abstract
A system for transportation and storage of cargo in space includes one or more platforms. The platforms are operable to hold multiple removable propellant tanks and rendezvous with one or more other platforms in space. The platforms also include one or more thruster systems and positioners. Each positioner has an effector operable to grip a band disposed around each propellant tank. Each positioner is operable to facilitate the transfer of the multiple removable propellant tanks between platforms during the rendezvous.
Claims64
A rack for storage of cargo in space, comprising:
- a plurality of tiers held in position by a central structure, each tier configured to releasably support at least one propellant tank, each tank contacting only a single surface of each tier and being held between two tiers;
- and
- a positioner configured to transfer a propellant tank to and from said frame.
A system for transportation and storage of cargo in space, said system including a plurality of platforms, each platform comprising:
- a plurality of tiers held in position by a central structure, each tier configured to releasably support at least one propellant tank, each tank contacting only a single surface of each tier and being held between two tiers;
- and
- a positioner configured to transfer a propellant tank from a first tierof one of the plurality of platforms to a second tier of another of the plurality of platforms.
A method for transportation and storage of cargo in space, comprising:
- providing a first platform and a second platform;
- holding a propellant tank on the first platform, the propellant tank contacting only a single surface of a tier on the first platform;
- positioning the first platform and the second platform adjacent to each other;
- coupling the first platform to the second platform;
- transferring the propellant tank from the first platform to the second platform;
- holding the propellant tank on the second platform, the propellant tank contacting only a single surface of a tier on the second platform;
- and
- uncoupling the first platform from the second platform.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.