Page Comparison

2 Bar Linkage Mechanism with “Bird’s Mouth” Lock

Compressed Air Support Strut

• Considerations

  • Support strut will exert a force that is greater than the force exerted by the mass of the trunk

    • When closed the compressed air support strut is constantly exerting a force that will try to open up the trunk

      • Latch must be able to withstand this force (though this shouldn’t really be an issue unless the support struts being used are overspecc'ed by a large amount - which should not happen)

      • This constant force will result in a residual stress buildup in the mounting area of the trunk

        • Must consider if this will cause elastic / plastic deformation of the trunk panel

        • Must consider if this will potentially damage solar cells

          • We know pressure should not be exerted onto the solar cells from the top - but could pressure from the bottom be an issue?