Abstract:
A system and method for deploying a payload with an aerostat uses a mobile transporter for moving the system to a deployment site. Structurally, the system includes a base unit with a rotation head mounted thereon. An envelope container for holding a deflated aerostat is mounted on the rotation head and a rotation of the container on the rotation head positions the aerostat for optimal compliance with the existing wind condition. Also included in the system is an inflator that is mounted on the base unit to inflate the aerostat with a Helium gas. And, the system includes a tether control unit for maintaining a connection with the aerostat during its deployment, in-flight use, and recovery. Preferably, a deployment computer is used for a coordinated control of the rotation head, inflator and tether.
Abstract:
A launch and capture system for capturing a vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) vehicle having a thruster and a duct configured to direct airflow generated by the thruster includes a capture plate and an extension. The capture plate is configured to alter the airflow and generate a force attracting the duct to the capture plate. The extension is coupled to the capture plate, and is configured to at least facilitate holding the VTOL vehicle against the capture plate.
Abstract:
An unmanned air vehicle for military, land security and the like operations includes a fuselage provided with foldable wings having leading edge flaps and trailing edge ailerons which are operable during ascent from launch to control the flight pattern with the wings folded, the wings being deployed into an open unfolded position when appropriate. The vehicle is contained within a pod from which it is launched and a landing deck is provided to decelerate and arrest the vehicle upon its return to land.
Abstract:
A communications system and method utilizes an unmanned surface vehicle (USV) capable of collecting data about an environment in which the USV resides. At least one micro-aerial vehicle (MAV), equipped for unmanned flight after a launch thereof, is mounted on the USV. Each MAV has onboard radio frequency (RF) communications. Each MAV launched into the air transmits the data collected by the USV using the MAV's RF communications.
Abstract:
Methods and apparatuses provide surveillance of a convoy. At least one unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) obtains images around the convoy's position to provide information about potential hostile activity while the UAV follows a generally curvilinear path around the convoy as instructed by one of the convoy vehicles. Path planner algorithm software is executed by the controlling convoy vehicle in which position and velocity information regarding the unmanned aerial vehicle and the convoy are processed to determine values of control variables. The determined values are sent to the unmanned aerial vehicle over a wireless communications channel. The path of the surveillance vehicle may be changed in order to provide evasive measures to avoid an attack on the surveillance vehicle by an adversary.
Abstract:
A vehicle or craft is provided for propeller propulsion with start assist by a releasable rocket engine. The craft is launched from a silo of square-shaped cross-section containing the starter motor for the propeller, whose engine is started while the craft is still in the silo. Diagonally opposed corners of the silo are provided with rails, in which run guides on rudder fins of the craft. The wings are pivoted to the fuselage for deployment whereby the wing tips do not move forward. The rocket engine is jettisoned shortly after take-off by simple disengagement. Parts of the wings and/or the rear of the fuselage may be jettisoned shortly before the craft reaches the target area.
Abstract:
A drone docking station for a vehicle includes: a transfer device configured to have a cargo loaded on a drone or to vertically move the cargo transferred by the drone; a guide device including a guide panel provided on a roof of the vehicle and connected to an upper end portion of the transfer device to have the drone accommodated on an upper portion of the guide panel, wherein the guide panel is disposed to surround the transfer device and provided to move inward or outward or to be rotated around a center portion of the transfer device; and a control unit electrically connected to the guide device and configured to rotate or move the guide panel so that the drone corresponds to the cargo positioned in the transfer device when the drone is accommodated on the guide panel.
Abstract:
This disclosure describes a moonroof accessory panel. The moonroof accessory panel may be a structure that may be removably attached to a moonroof area of a vehicle. The moonroof accessory panel may be used to hold a drone associated with the vehicle such that the drone may take-off from and land on the moonroof accessory panel. The top of the moonroof accessory panel may also be accessible from the cabin of the vehicle such that a user may place the drone on top of the moonroof accessory panel while inside the cabin. The moonroof accessory panel may also be used for other purposes beyond holding drones as well.
Abstract:
A method for package delivery includes identifying a plurality of delivery locations for package delivery. The method includes determining a driving route for an automated ground vehicle to optimize delivery to the delivery locations using one or more automated aerial vehicles. The method includes controlling the automated ground vehicle to navigate the delivery route. The method further includes determining timing for release of the one or more automated aerial vehicles during navigation of the delivery route to deliver packages to the plurality of delivery locations.
Abstract:
In one aspect, an example system includes: (i) a base including a bottom surface and a first coupling-point; (ii) a vertically-oriented elongate structure comprising a lower end, an upper end, and an inner channel, wherein the inner channel comprises an upper access-point disposed proximate the upper end, wherein the base is coupled to the elongate structure proximate the lower end; (iii) a deployable cushioning-device coupled to the elongate structure; and (iv) a tether comprising a first portion, a second portion, a third portion, and a fourth portion, wherein the first portion is coupled to the first coupling-point, the second portion is coupled to a second coupling-point of the UAV, the third portion extends through the inner channel, the fourth portion extends from the upper access-point to the second coupling-point, and the fourth portion has a length that is less than a distance between the upper access-point and the bottom surface.