Solar powered aircraft with a variable geometry wing and telecommunications networks utilizing such aircraft
US9604715B2 · kind B2 · utility
1Cited by
11References
19Claims
0Family size
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 24, 2016 |
| Grant date | Mar 28, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 24, 2036 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02T50/60
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A solar powered aircraft having segmented wings that can be reconfigured during flight to optimize collection of solar energy are described. The aircraft have rigid construction that is resistant to inclement weather and is configured to rely on free flight control at high altitude and under conventional conditions, thereby providing flight duration in excess of 2 months. The aircraft is particularly suitable for use as part of a telecommunications network. A telecommunications network incorporating such aircraft is also discussed.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.