Abstract: An automatically deployable, portable communications system includes an inflatable antenna stored in a case that also houses the antenna support assembly, drive mechanisms, inflation control modules, power supply modules and a control system. The case also includes a switch configured to close a circuit with the power supply module and initiate deployment and operation of the antenna when the case lid is opened.

Abstract: A positioning system for a spherical object which adjusts orientation thereof in azimuth and elevation comprising first and second drive rods threadably engaged with respective first and second brackets secured to the surfaces of opposing left and right hemispheres the object The first and second drive rods include a first coupling configured for imparting co-rotation to the drive rods and a second coupling configured for imparting counter-rotation to the drive rods, and a clutch for selecting operation of either coupling.

Abstract: Apparatus for maintaining differential internal fluid pressure in a dual fluid chamber object where it is desired for one chamber to have greater internal pressure than the other includes a sensor for generating a differential signal indicating the difference in pressure between the chambers, a pressure sensor for generating a pressure signal indicating the pressure inside the chamber desired to have less pressure, a comparator for generating a first output when the differential signal is less than a predetermined minimum differential value, a second comparator for generating a second output when the pressure signal is less than a predetermined minimum pressure value, where the predetermined minimum pressure value biased by the first output, and blowers coupled to the respective chambers and responsive to said first and second outputs respectively.

Abstract: An apparatus for positioning and controlling a spherical, inflatable antenna includes a driven rotating table disposed in the horizontal plane which supports and drives a horizontal arm member to which is hingedly connected first and second upright support members at either end. The upright support members include journal bearings attachable to the surface of an inflatable antenna.

Abstract: An apparatus for positioning and controlling a spherical, inflatable antenna includes a driven rotating table disposed in the horizontal plane which supports and drives a horizontal arm member to which is hingedly connected first and second upright support members at either end. The upright support members include journal bearings attachable to the surface of an inflatable antenna.

Abstract: An apparatus for positioning and controlling a spherical, inflatable antenna includes a driven rotating table disposed in the horizontal plane which supports and drives a horizontal arm member to which is hingedly connected first and second upright support members at either end. The upright support members include journal bearings attachable to the surface of an inflatable antenna.

Abstract: Apparatus for maintaining differential internal fluid pressure in a dual fluid chamber object where it is desired for one chamber to have greater internal pressure than the other includes a sensor for generating a differential signal indicating the difference in pressure between the chambers, a pressure sensor for generating a pressure signal indicating the pressure inside the chamber desired to have less pressure, a comparator for generating a first output when the differential signal is less than a predetermined minimum differential value, a second comparator for generating a second output when the pressure signal is less than a predetermined minimum pressure value, where the predetermined minimum pressure value biased by the first output, and blowers coupled to the respective chambers and responsive to said first and second outputs respectively.

Abstract: A positioning system for a spherical object which adjusts orientation thereof in azimuth and elevation comprising first and second drive rods threadably engaged with respective first and second brackets secured to the surfaces of opposing left and right hemispheres the object The first and second drive rods include a first coupling configured for imparting co-rotation to the drive rods and a second coupling configured for imparting counter-rotation to the drive rods, and a clutch for selecting operation of either coupling.

Abstract: An apparatus for positioning and controlling a spherical, inflatable antenna includes a driven rotating table disposed in the horizontal plane which supports and drives a horizontal arm member to which is hingedly connected first and second upright support members at either end. The upright support members include journal bearings attachable to the surface of an inflatable antenna.