Mobile UAV launch and retrieval system for operation within a transportation system
US10538340B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 23, 2017 |
| Grant date | Jan 21, 2020 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 30, 2038 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02T90/12
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Systems for mobile launch and retrieval of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) include a rail-based, ground-based, or water-based mobile platform carrying a mobile station for launching and retrieving vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) or non-VTOL UAS while the platform is in motion, based on current position and weather conditions. The mobile platform may include facilities for communicating with the airborne UAS, stowing a retrieved UAS, and reloading/refitting a stowed UAS. The mobile platform may include positionable wake control devices and a partially positionable launch and retrieval mechanism for alleviating turbulence or crosswinds. The mobile platform may include long-range sensors for detecting or identifying obstacles near a rail-based platform that may interfere with the operating envelope of the launch and retrieval mechanisms. The launch and retrieval system may be intermodal and scalable either up or down as mission parameters demand.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.