Underwing reflector solar array

Patent · Tue Aug 04 04:00:00 EDT 1981

OSTI ID:5861594

Lackey, J A; Nordwall, H L; Whitney, C B

A lightweight solar cell array for space vehicles powered by solar electric propulsion is disclosed. The array incorporates a plurality of hinged solar cell units which can be folded for stowage and thereafter extended into a planar configuration. Light is directed onto the solar cell array by a flexible reflector assembly which is carried below the array. The reflector assembly preferably comprises sheets of flexible material stowed on rolls whereby the sheets can be pulled from the rolls into extended positions. The solar cell array and the reflector are carried between two frames, one of which can be moved away from the other to deploy the array and the reflector assembly.

• Assignee: Boeing Co The
• Patent Number(s): US 4282394
• OSTI ID: 5861594
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

14 SOLAR ENERGY
140501* -- Solar Energy Conversion-- Photovoltaic Conversion
140600 -- Solar Energy-- Photovoltaic Power Systems
DESIGN
EMPLACEMENT
EQUIPMENT
FLEXIBILITY
MECHANICAL PROPERTIES
MECHANICAL STRUCTURES
PROPULSION
SHEETS
SOLAR CELL ARRAYS
SOLAR CONCENTRATORS
SOLAR ELECTRIC PROPULSION
SOLAR EQUIPMENT
SOLAR REFLECTORS
SPACE VEHICLES
STOWAGE
SUPPORTS
TENSILE PROPERTIES
VEHICLES