Despin and rotational control architectures for lighter-than-air high altitude platforms
US11772808B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 17, 2020 |
| Grant date | Oct 3, 2023 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 20, 2041 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02T50/60
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Aspects of the technology relate to lateral propulsion systems in lighter-than-air (LTA) platforms configured to operate in the stratosphere. One or more motor assemblies are used to actuate the lateral propulsion system and to make directional changes, for instance using one or more propellers. This can include a pointing axis motor assembly for orienting the lateral propulsion system along a particular heading, and a drive motor assembly for causing a propeller assembly or other propulsion mechanism to turn on and off Corrective actions may be necessary to adjust the alignment of the lateral propulsion system. A stepper motor control module may be used to control operation of the pointing axis motor assembly, for instance by causing it to rotate in a clockwise (or counterclockwise) direction. A motor current control approach may be used, in which the motor voltage is adjusted until a measured motor current reaches a selected current level.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.