Aircraft fuselage with internal current return network
US11420765B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 26, 2020 |
| Grant date | Aug 23, 2022 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 11, 2041 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB32B2605/18
- WIPO fieldSurface technology, coating
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A lightning strike protection (LSP) system minimizes or eliminates both the direct and indirect effects of lightning strikes on aircraft with composite fuselages without adding excessive weight to the aircraft. The LSP system comprises an external current return network and an internal current return network. The internal current return network comprises a wide plane of conductive foil material adhered to, or embedded within, an innermost surface of the fuselage and other portions of the aircraft formed primarily of composite materials. The conductive foil material is provided in wide planar sheets, and in one embodiment, is formed of expanded copper foil mesh. The internal current return network is installed in all areas or zones of the aircraft where cables and wires are routed.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.