Aerovehicle system including plurality of autogyro assemblies
US8540183B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 13, 2010 |
| Grant date | Sep 24, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 29, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64U2201/20
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An unmanned, towable aerovehicle is described and includes a container or frame to hold or support cargo, at least one and, in some examples, a plurality of autogyro assemblies connected to the container and to provide flight characteristics, and a controller to control operation the autogyro assembly for unmanned flight. The container or frame includes a connection to connect to a powered aircraft to provide forward motive force to power the autogyro assembly. In an example, the autogyro assembly includes a mast extending from the container, a rotatable hub on an end of the mast, and a plurality of blades connected to the hub for rotation to provide lift to the vehicle. In an example, an electrical motor rotates the blades prior to lift off to assist in take off. In an example, the electrical motor does not have enough power to sustain flight of the vehicle. The aerovehicle can further include plurality of autogyro assemblies to assist in flight. The aerovehicle can include surfaces that provide lift or control to assist in the flight profile of the aerovehicle.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.