Altitude control system

US11685501B2 · kind B2 · utility

Inventors

• Kevin Anderson · Sunnyvale, US
• Jonathan Nutzmann · Redwood City, US
• John Cromie · Menlo Park, US
• Nathan Winder · San Jose, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Dec 10, 2019
• Grant date: Jun 27, 2023
• Expiry date: Sep 21, 2041

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B64U10/30
• WIPO field: Transport
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A system for an unmanned aerial vehicle can include an altitude control system 320, which further includes a compressor assembly 400, a valve assembly 500, and an electronics control assembly 600. The compressor assembly may include a compressor housing 410 that includes a compressor inlet 402, an outlet 202, and a cavity 414 extending therethrough and joining the inlet to the outlet. A diffuser 408 may be coupled to the compressor housing. A motor housing 407 may be disposed within the central cavity at the inlet of the compressor housing, and a compressor motor 406 may be disposed within the motor housing. An impeller 412 disposed within the compressor housing may be coupled to a driveshaft 444 for rotation therewith. The valve assembly may be coupled to an opening 416 of the compressor inlet. The valve head 502 may be configured to move into and away from the inlet opening so as to change a size of the circumferential area of the inlet opening.