Rotocraft
US8973862B2 · kind B2 · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 23, 2013 |
| Grant date | Mar 10, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 26, 2033 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64U2101/30
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An aerial vehicle includes independently controlled horizontal thrusters and vertical lifters to provide design and operational simplicity while allowing precision flying with six degrees of freedom and use of mounted devices such as tools, sensors, and instruments. Each horizontal thruster and vertical lifter can be mounted as constant-pitch, fixed-axis rotors while still allowing for precise control of yaw, pitch, roll, horizontal movement, and vertical elevation. Gyroscopes and inclinometers can be used to further enhance flying precision. A controller manages thrust applied the horizontal thrusters and vertical lifters to compensate for forces and torques generated by the use of tools and other devices mounted to the aerial vehicle.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.