Multi-faceted test chamber
US9863840B1 · kind B1 · utility
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 22, 2014 |
| Grant date | Jan 9, 2018 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 3, 2035 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01M9/04
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Systems and methods for providing a multi-direction wind tunnel, or “windball,” are disclosed. The system can have a series of fans configured to provide air flow in a plurality of directions to enable accurate testing of aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and other vehicles capable of multi-dimensional flight. The system can comprise a spherical or polyhedral test chamber with a plurality of fans. The fans can be arranged in pairs, such that a first fan comprises an intake fan and a second fan comprises an exhaust fan. The direction of the air flow can be controlled by activating one or more pairs of fans, each pair of fan creating a portion of the air flow in a particular direction. The direction of the air flow can also be controlled by rotating one or more pairs of fans with respect to the test chamber on a gimbal device, or similar.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.