Towed network communications subsystem for in flight use by towing aircraft
US8358967B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 1, 2008 |
| Grant date | Jan 22, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 9, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04B7/18504
- WIPO fieldTelecommunications
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
The present invention relates to a towed wireless network communications subsystem for use in flight by a towing aircraft. The towed wireless network communications subsystem includes an aerodynamic enclosure having a tether attachment and configured to be towed by the towing aircraft. A directional antenna is disposed on the aerodynamic enclosure and is capable of forming one or more directional communications beams within a wireless network. A communications device is disposed in the aerodynamic enclosure and is coupled to the directional antenna(s). The communications device is configured to relay communications data between the towing aircraft and the wireless network.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.