Pressurized modular system for space applications

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Referring now to FIG.
1, a modular system 8 in accordance with the invention includes at least one interchangeable circular cylinder body section 10, a flexible pressure seal 12 coupled between cylinder body sections 10 if more than one body section is utilized, a front bulkhead or endcap 14, a rear bulkhead or endcap 16, and a tendon array assembly 18.
In the illustrated embodiment, the front endcap 14 is shaped in the form of a truncated cone and includes a hatch opening 20.
A berthing mechanism, tunnel adapter or docking device 22 is coupled to the front endcap 14, thereby permitting the modular system to be coupled to a manned orbiting space station or to a pressurized crew compartment of an NSTS Orbiter.
The circular and substantially flat rear endcap 16 is of a type generally described in U.
S.
Pat.
No.
4,867,395, the content of which is incorporated by reference.
Although the preferred illustrated embodiment utilizes a truncated cone front endcap 14 and a substantially flat rear endcap 16, other variations are possible including two truncated cone endcaps or two substantially flat endcaps.
The tendon array assembly 18 includes longitudinal tendons and transverse tendons that will be described in greater detail below.
Each of the cylinder body sections 10 is preferably adapted to carry standardized payload racks 24 or payload lockers 26 mounted on standardized standoffs.
The racks 24 and lockers 26 are used to store cargo or to retain instrument payloads within the modular system 8.
FIG.
2 illustrates a partial cutaway isometric view of the modular system 8.
A pressure sealing hatch 28 is attached to the front endcap 14 and mates with the hatch opening 20.
The front endcap 14 further incorporates integral support structures to which various hardware, including utility conduits for electrical power, data lines and fluids lines, may be attached.
Full access to the interior of the front endcap 14 during pre-flight ground processing prior to mating of the front endcap 14 to a cylinder section 10 facilitates installation of the hardware to the front endcap 14