公开(公告)号：US3733758A

公开(公告)日：1973-05-22

申请号：US3733758D

申请日：1971-04-29

Applicant: MESSERSCHMITT BOELKOW BLOHM

Inventor： MAIER H ,  ARBEITLAND E ,  KLEBER P

IPC: B64G1/22 ,  B64G1/44 ,  B64G1/10

CPC classification number: B64G1/443 ,  B64G1/222 ,  E05Y2201/62 ,  E05Y2201/652 ,  H02S30/20 ,  Y10S136/292

Abstract: Mechanism for unfolding series-connected, accordionlike folded structural elements, particularly for use in supporting large surface solar cells. The several sections to be folded and unfolded are connected by hinge structure including a torsion-bar tensioned when said parts are in a selected on of folded or unfolded conditions. In addition, force transmission means are arranged between panels which rotate in the same direction during movement in response to the urging of said tensioned torsion bars. These force transmission devices ensure that said arm sections will unfold (or fold) at predetermined ratios with respect to each other, regardless of the effectiveness of successive individual torsion bars and will further ensure predeterminable response by said arm sections, even if certain of said torsion bars are out of action. If desired, a power means can be applied to operate through said force transmission means for restoring the arm sections against the force of said torsion bars to said selected condition.