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Preload release mechanismThis invention relates to a preload release mechanism comprising a preload spring assembly adapted to apply a preload to a first connector member which is mounted on a support structure and adapted for connection with a second connector member on an object. The assembly comprises telescoped bushings and a preload spring. A tubular shaft extends through the spring assembly and openings in the first connector member and support structure, on which it is clamped. A plunger rod in the shaft is provided with a tip end and a recess in the rod near the other end thereof. A retainer precludes passage of the rod through the shaft in one direction and an end cap closes the bore of the shaft at the other end and provides a shoulder which extends radially of the shaft. A plunger return spring biases the plunger rod against the plunger retainer with the plunger tip protruding from the shaft and a spring assembly return spring engages at its ends the shoulder of the end cap and one end of the spring assembly. Detents received in lateral openings in the tubular shaft are held captive by the plunger rod and one end of the spring assembly to lock the spring assembly on the tubular shaft and apply a preload to the first connector member. Upon completion of the connection, detents and spring assembly are released by plunger contact with the object to be connected, thereby releasing the preload while the connection is maintained.
Document ID
19950019172
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Other - Patent
Authors
Generoli, Robert M.
(McDonnell-Douglas Corp. Houston, TX., United States)
Young, Harry J.
(McDonnell-Douglas Corp. Houston, TX., United States)
Date Acquired
August 16, 2013
Publication Date
March 14, 1995
Subject Category
Mechanical Engineering
Report/Patent Number
Patent Application Number: US-PATENT-APPL-SN-230571
Patent Number: NASA-CASE-MSC-22327-1
Patent Number: US-PATENT-5,397,244
Accession Number
95N25592
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.
Patent
NASA-CASE-MSC-22327-1|US-PATENT-5,397,244
Patent Application
US-PATENT-APPL-SN-230571
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