Patents by Inventor Steven L. Apfel

Steven L. Apfel has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 4880185
    Abstract: A spacecraft propulsion system which integrates the function of the apogee kick motor (AKM) and reaction control system (RCS) is disclosed. In accordance with this invention, a pump-fed AKM is employed which results in lightweight main tanks and pressurization systems. The RCS thrusters are operated by small bellows tanks which are intermittently pressurized by a gas pressurization system to provide high pressure for operation of the RCS thrusters. The system according to this invention enables use of lighter weight main propellant tanks since they do not have to withstand high internal pressures and also enables realization of the numerous advantages of a pump-fed AKM. Several embodiments describe various methods for cycling the bellows tanks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1988
    Date of Patent: November 14, 1989
    Assignee: Hughes Aircraft Company
    Inventor: Steven L. Apfel