A multiple payload set and method for assembly

Abstract

A multiple payload set for a launch vehicle, wherein the multiple payload set includes a plurality of payloads. The plurality of payloads is interconnected via a non-self-supported connection structure before assembly of the multiple payload set to a dispenser body. Each payload includes first attachment means attachable to the connection structure. The connection structure includes second attachment means attachable to a ground support equipment, GSE, during attachment of the multiple payload set to the dispenser body.

1 . A multiple payload set for a launch vehicle, the multiple payload set includes a plurality of payloads, wherein the plurality of payloads are interconnected via a non-self-supported connection structure before assembly of the multiple payload set to a dispenser body, wherein each payload includes first attachment means attachable to the connection structure, wherein the connection structure includes second attachment means attachable to a ground support equipment, GSE, during attachment of the multiple payload set to the dispenser body. 
     
     
         2 . A multiple payload set according to  claim 1 , wherein the connection structure is designed to align the payloads according to a predetermined pattern. 
     
     
         3 . A multiple payload set according to  claim 1 , wherein the second attachment means are arranged in connection to the first attachment means and wherein the connection structure includes reinforcement means arranged to mechanically connect the second attachment means to the first attachment means to form a load bearing structure. 
     
     
         4 . A multiple payload set according to  claim 1 , wherein each payload includes the first attachment means and wherein the connection structure includes a maximum number of second attachment means corresponding to the number of first attachment means. 
     
     
         5 . A multiple payload set according to  claim 1 , wherein the first attachment means are separation devices. 
     
     
         6 . A multiple payload set according to  claim 1 , wherein the connection structure is a rail structure. 
     
     
         7 . A payload dispenser comprising a multiple payload set according to  claim 1 . 
     
     
         8 . A payload dispenser according to  claim 7 , wherein the payload dispenser includes rail unit ring brackets mounted onto an envelope surface of the dispenser body. 
     
     
         9 . A payload dispenser according to  claim 8 , wherein the rail unit ring brackets includes through openings for receiving the first attachment means on the multiple payload set during attachment of the multiple payload set to the dispenser body. 
     
     
         10 . A payload dispenser according to  claim 7 , wherein the dispenser body is formed of one or more ring shaped bodies. 
     
     
         11 . A payload dispenser according to  claim 7 , wherein the dispenser body includes a plurality of panels, wherein at least one panel includes at least one multiple payload set mounted onto the panel, wherein the panels are attachable to each other forming a self-supporting dispenser. 
     
     
         12 . Ground support equipment, GSE, for a multiple payload set according to  claim 1 , wherein the GSE includes at least two longitudinally extending beams and at least two laterally extending beams, wherein in an assembled state the beams form a frame designed to fit to carry the subset of payloads, and wherein in a collapsed state the longitudinal beams and/or the laterally extending beams are designed to fit and be removed between two neighboring payloads attached to the payload dispenser. 
     
     
         13 . A GSE according to  claim 12 , wherein the longitudinally extending beams includes third attachment means attachable to the second attachment means in the multiple payload set. 
     
     
         14 . A method for assembling a payload dispenser, the method comprising:
 attaching a plurality of payloads to a non-self-supported connection structure via first attachment means creating a multiple payload set;   attaching a ground support equipment, GSE, to the connection structure, the GSE, comprising third attachment means and the connection structure comprising second attachment means comprised in the connection structure being connected to the first attachment means via reinforcement means, wherein the third attachment means are attached to the second attachment means when attaching the GSE to the connection structure;   transporting the ground support equipment, GSE, and the attached multiple payload set;   maneuvering the ground support equipment, GSE, and the attached multiple payload set into position with relation to a dispenser body;   attaching the multiple payload set to the dispenser body via the first attachment means; and   knocking down the GSE and removing the GSE pieces from the payload dispenser by detachment of the third attachment means from the second attachment means.