US 12,296,986 B2
Deployable panel array and related assemblies and methods
Nicholas Fasanella, Elkridge, MD (US); George Firstbrook, Arvada, CO (US); and R. Christopher Thiem, Westminister, MD (US)
Assigned to Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation, Falls Church, VA (US)
Filed by Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation, Falls Church, VA (US)
Filed on Jan. 7, 2022, as Appl. No. 17/571,369.
Prior Publication US 2024/0300673 A1, Sep. 12, 2024
Int. Cl. B64G 1/22 (2006.01); B64G 1/42 (2006.01); B64G 1/44 (2006.01)
CPC B64G 1/222 (2013.01) [B64G 1/2222 (2023.08); B64G 1/42 (2013.01); B64G 1/443 (2013.01); B64G 1/446 (2013.01)] 20 Claims
OG exemplary drawing
 
1. A panel array comprising:
a plurality of panels arranged in one or more columns and one or more rows;
a first cable extending along a column of the one or more columns to a first row of the one or more rows, the first cable extending around a first pulley and along the first row and coupled to each of the plurality of panels in the first row;
a second cable extending along the column of the one or more columns past the first row to a second row of the one or more rows, the second cable extending around a second pulley and along the second row and coupled to each of the plurality of panels in the second row; and
interlocking features on adjacent panels of the plurality of panels in the first row;
wherein the first cable is configured to apply tension between the plurality of panels in the first row and cause the interlocking features to engage.