Contoured surface defueling fitting
US7171990B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | May 10, 2005 |
| Grant date | Feb 6, 2007 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 10, 2025 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64F1/28
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method and apparatus for defueling an aircraft. The apparatus includes a defueling fitting comprising one or more structural connectors, which may include one or more suction cups. The suction cups are disposed in a mount. The suction cups may be raised from a surface in the mount and arranged in a non-circular pattern to facilitate connection to contoured surfaces. An actuator assembly may be attached to the mount for opening an aircraft defueling valve. The suction cups may be operatively connected to a vacuum source to connect the defueling fitting to an aircraft body, with the actuator assembly positioned at the aircraft defueling valve. The defueling fitting facilitates safe and convenient defueling of aircraft, even aircraft with significantly contoured surfaces.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.