Abstract: A mechanical rotational drive has a bar-like torsion element, whereby the torsion element is firmly clamped with a first end in a bearing device. The torsion element can be pivoted with a second free end with respect to the clamped end about the longitudinal axis, forming a rotation axis, of the torsion element between a relaxed position and a tensioned position, whereby the length of the torsion element is reduced with respect to the relaxed position when the torsion element is brought into its tensioned position.

Abstract: A mechanical rotational drive has a bar-like torsion element, whereby the torsion element is firmly clamped with a first end in a bearing device. The torsion element can be pivoted with a second free end with respect to the clamped end about the longitudinal axis, forming a rotation axis, of the torsion element between a relaxed position and a tensioned position, whereby the length of the torsion element is reduced with respect to the relaxed position when the torsion element is brought into its tensioned position.

Abstract: An extendible solar generator has an extendible solar cell structure and an extendible support array structure which has a first cross member and is connected with a stowage housing for the solar cell structure. The support array structure can be rolled out independently of the solar cell structure and has guiding devices for rolling out the solar cell structure after the array structure has rolled out.

Abstract: A roll-out solar generator has a roll-out solar cell structure and a roll-out array structure which has a first cross member and is connected with a stowage housing for the solar cell structure. The array structure can be rolled out independently of the solar cell structure and has guiding devices for rolling out the solar cell structure after the array structure has rolled out.

Abstract: An extensible carrier structure is described here which includes several mutually connected individual elements, where the individual elements are made up of tube elements which are deformable in a reversible manner, and where the tube elements, at their ends, are connected with each other by first elastic elements.

Abstract: A device for holding down solar panels with a holding-down bolt and for releasing the solar panels after shearing off with a pyrotechnical striking pin device is arranged on the outer side of the solar panels. After severing with the striking pin and after lifting out of the striking pin device with a spring, the holding-down bolt pivots out of spacers, which are connected to the solar panels via crossbolts, as a result of which the solar panels can be freely unfolded.

Abstract: The invention provides a device for unfolding solar panels 2, 3 for a spacecraft, which solar panels are connected with one another by an articulated axle 4, which in turn is connected with actuating devices for unfolding the panels by way of a tension device gearing provided with cable pulleys 11. An uncoupling mechanism, operative after unfolding of one panel 3, permits the articulated axle 4 to be separated from the tension device gearing. Upon swivelling of the unfolded panel 3 into an unfolded position, a pin 8, which is arranged in parallel to the articulated axle 4 engages in circumferentially extending grooves 12 and 12a. In this manner, the swivelled panel 3 can be guided to follow the solar altitude.

Abstract: A sealing arrangement for the sealing-off of metallic cylindrical bodies is disclosed, particularly for shafts in cryogenic valves which are surrounded by an essentially ring-shaped sealing device which cannot be glued to metal. The sealing device is surrounded by a ring which is arranged concentrically with respect to the shaft, consists of a metal alloy with shape memory characteristics and with a one-way characteristic and the interior shape of which is adapted to the exterior shape of the sealing device and which contracts when the transition temperature is exceeded.

Abstract: A linear drive is disclosed comprising a single-acting pneumatic piston cylinder unit, at least one spring which acts against the pneumatic force and loads the piston rod in the direction of one end position, and one form-locking pneumatic locking mechanism respectively for each of the two end positions of the piston rod.