Virtual sensor mast
US7149611B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 12, 2003 |
| Grant date | Dec 12, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 20, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64U2201/202
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A virtual sensor mast for a ground vehicle and a method for operating a ground vehicle using a virtual sensor mast are disclosed. The virtual sensor mast includes an unmanned airborne vehicle capable of lifting itself from the ground vehicle upon deployment therefrom; a sensor suite mounted to the unmanned airborne vehicle; and a tether between the unmanned airborne vehicle and the ground vehicle over which the sensor suite is capable of communicating sensed data upon deployment. The method includes elevating a tethered unmanned airborne vehicle from the ground vehicle to a predetermined height; sensing environmental conditions surrounding the ground vehicle; and terminating the deployment.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.