Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to a novel system, device, and methods for providing a one-way locking mechanism that changes the shape or stiffness of a structure. More specifically, embodiments of the present invention relate to a mechanism for increasing fairing jettison clearance. Embodiments of the present invention permit outward breathing displacement by the fairing, but reduce the inward breathing displacement by the fairing such that the fairing does not hit and damage the spacecraft or vehicle as it is jettisoned from the spacecraft or vehicle.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to a novel system, device, and methods for providing a one-way locking mechanism that changes the shape or stiffness of a structure. More specifically, embodiments of the present invention relate to a mechanism for increasing fairing jettison clearance. Embodiments of the present invention permit outward breathing displacement by the fairing, but reduce the inward breathing displacement by the fairing such that the fairing does not hit and damage the spacecraft or vehicle as it is jettisoned from the spacecraft or vehicle.

Abstract: A new system and apparatus for detachably joining a first component to a second component is disclosed, along with a method for detachably joining two components. Embodiments of the present invention include a tensioning apparatus and system for clamping joints. The tensioning apparatus may include a wedge block and a fastening device. The clamping joint may be a tongue and groove joint that is tightened using the tensioning apparatus.

Abstract: A new system and apparatus for detachably joining a first component to a second component is disclosed, along with a method for detachably joining two components. Embodiments of the present invention include a tensioning apparatus and system for clamping joints. The tensioning apparatus may include a wedge block and a fastening device. The clamping joint may be a tongue and groove joint that is tightened using the tensioning apparatus.

Abstract: A new system and apparatus for detachably joining a first component to a second component is disclosed, along with a method for detachably joining two components. Embodiments of the present invention include a tensioning apparatus and system for clamping joints. The tensioning apparatus may include a wedge block and a fastening device. The clamping joint may be a tongue and groove joint that is tightened using the tensioning apparatus.

Abstract: A new adaptable grid or lattice structure identified by the coined term “polargrid” is disclosed. A polargrid may be designed or engineered to fill any space between two generally circular structures and where the ribs will intersect with both circular structures at a node. The intersection of a polargrid with a circular structure will not occur mid-rib. Rather, a polargrid can be designed to always have ribs terminate at an inner or outer circular structure at a node. Polargrids have particular applicability in cylindrical structures or when interconnecting concentric circular or cylindrical structures that may or may not be co-planar.