Abstract: The deployable helical antenna of the present invention and helical antenna deployment system includes a helical antenna having a plurality of helical filars and at least two guide plates positioned with respect to the helical filars. Each of the guide plates is provided with a plurality of guide elements operably attached to a corresponding helical filar. The novel helical antenna of the present invention can be collapsed into a stowed position such that each of the helical filars, and portions thereof, are tightly and efficiently layered one over another. Upon actuation of a retention mechanism, the stored energy in each of the collapsed helical filars initiates antenna deployment whereby the guide elements accurately and reliably control the movement and final position of a corresponding helical filar.

Abstract: The self latching hinge of the present invention includes a hinge having a hinge housing with a receiving channel and at least one receiving bore wherein the hinge housing is operably secured to a first hinged component. A piston having a concentric compression spring is operably received within the at least one receiving bore for movement between an extended position and a retracted position. One side of a latching link is operably connected to the at least one piston and another side of the latching link is connected to a second hinged component. When the at least one piston is in an extended position, the latching link is removed from the channel and when the at least one piston is in a retracted position, the latching link is received within the channel to form a locked and oriented connection between the first and second hinged components.