Towable autogyro having a re-positionable mast
US9187173B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 2, 2014 |
| Grant date | Nov 17, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 2, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64U2101/64
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An unmanned, towable air vehicle is described and includes electronic sensors to increase the detection range relative to the horizon detection limitations of a surface craft, an autogyro assembly to provide lift, and a controller to control operation the autogyro assembly for unmanned flight. A forward motive force powers the autogyro assembly to provide lift. 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. The electrical motor does not have enough power to sustain flight of the vehicle in an example.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.