John G Mcbride

US Patent:

6416098, Jul 9, 2002

Filed:

Nov 6, 2000

Appl. No.:

09/706962

Inventors:

W. George C. Irwin - Scottsdale AZ
Javier Leija - Chandler AZ
John R. McBride - Phoenix AZ
Mark M. Kanne - Chandler AZ

Assignee:

Motorola, Inc. - Schaumburg IL

International Classification:

B66C 300

US Classification:

294 681, 294 672

Abstract:

A shipping container ( ) for transporting and handling a satellite ( ) is disclosed. The shipping container ( ) includes a support structure ( ) for securing the satellite during transport, a base ( ) hingedly connected to the support structure ( ), and a cover ( ) to protect the satellite ( ) during transport, coupled to the support structure ( ). The shipping container ( ) also includes a upending actuator ( ), a ballast arm ( ), and a handling sling ( ) to facilitate removal of the satellite ( ) from the shipping container ( ).

US Patent:

55823661, Dec 10, 1996

Filed:

Jan 19, 1995

Appl. No.:

8/375038

Inventors:

James E. Hamant - Tempe AZ
John R. McBride - Phoenix AZ
David H. Cubbage - Chandler AZ

Assignee:

Motorola, Inc. - Schaumburg IL

International Classification:

B69F 128
B60D 3716
B67D 554
F04F 100

US Classification:

244135A

Abstract:

A self-contained fueling module (10) provides the exact amount of hydrazine necessary to fuel a satellite (50) prior to launch. The fueling module (10) includes a propellant tank (14), a vacuum tank (12) and a pressurant tank (16). The propellant tank, filled with hydrazine, is shipped to the launch site where it is installed in the fueling module. Prior to launch, the fueling module is connected to the satellite and the hydrazine is driven with Helium pressurant into the satellite fuel tank. The Helium also pressurizes the satellite fuel tank to flight pressure. Any remaining fuel is evacuated from the connections (45) and fuel transfer lines (42) with the vacuum tank. Personnel do not have to wear self-contained atmospheric pressurized environment (SCAPE) suits because there is no risk of hydrazine exposure.