Lockheed Martin Corporation
Multi-mission modular array

Abstract:

A system for compact stowage and deployment of a flexible solar array includes a deployer unit and a blanket container for containing the flexible solar array. The deployer unit includes a frame, a closed-section collapsible mast for deploying and supporting the solar array, a mast stowage reel for supporting the mast in a collapsed stowed state, and an actuator to drive the mast from the stowed state to a deployed state. The frame has a first section extending along a vertical plane and a second section extending along a horizontal plane. The blanket container is pivotably coupled to the frame of the deployer unit. In a stowed state, the blanket container is oriented facing the second section of the frame. In a deployed state, the blanket container is oriented parallel to the vertical plane, and perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the mast.