Apparatus and method for automated launch, retrieval, and servicing of a hovering aircraft
US10414493B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 7, 2015 |
| Grant date | Sep 17, 2019 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 9, 2038 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64U80/25
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus and method for automated launch, retrieval, and servicing of a hovering aircraft is provided. The apparatus includes a line which is elevatable while maintaining a principally horizontal axis. For retrieval, the aircraft translates principally spanwise over the line, following a path which is principally horizontal and normal to the line. At an appropriate moment, the line is elevated and contacts the aircraft's wing. As the aircraft continues translating, the line slides along the wing until captured in a cleat. The aircraft is then stably tethered in hover, and its position can be manipulated by articulating the line, such as to guide the aircraft into a docking station. For launch the aircraft lifts itself into hover while tethered to the line. Articulation of the line guides the aircraft into a launch position, at which point the line is disconnected from the cleat, thereby releasing the aircraft.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.