Using unwound tether length to measure altitude
US12209884B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 15, 2022 |
| Grant date | Jan 28, 2025 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 22, 2043 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG05D2109/254
- WIPO fieldControl
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A method includes obtaining sensor data indicating a tension experienced by a tether while a payload coupling apparatus connected to the tether is lowered from an aerial vehicle using the tether. The method also includes determining, based on the sensor data, a ground contact time at which the payload coupling apparatus or a payload coupled thereto made initial contact with a ground surface. The method additionally includes determining a length of the tether released from the aerial vehicle at the ground contact time. The method further includes determining a tether-based altitude of the aerial vehicle based on the length of the tether released from the aerial vehicle at the ground contact time. The method yet further includes causing the aerial vehicle to perform an operation based on the tether-based altitude.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.