公开(公告)号：US08955800B2

公开(公告)日：2015-02-17

申请号：US13527177

申请日：2012-06-19

Applicant: Brian T. McGeer ,  Robert S. Coatney

Inventor： Brian T. McGeer ,  Robert S. Coatney

IPC: B64F1/02 ,  B64F1/04 ,  B64F1/22 ,  B64C39/02

CPC classification number: B64F1/02 ,  B64C39/024 ,  B64C2201/088 ,  B64C2201/108 ,  B64C2201/182 ,  B64F1/04 ,  B64F1/22

Abstract: An aircraft capable of thrust-borne flight can be automatically retrieved, serviced, and launched using equipment suitable for a small vessel. For retrieval, the aircraft hovers over a base apparatus having one or more rails which bound a space into which the aircraft can safely descend. When the aircraft's measured position and velocity are appropriate, the aircraft descends promptly such that a spanwise component on the aircraft engages the rails. The teeth restrain the aircraft in position and orientation, while the rails bring the aircraft to rest. Articulation of the rails is used to park the aircraft in a servicing station. Connections for refueling, recharging, and/or functional checks are made in preparation for launch. Launch is effected by removing connections and restraints and articulating the rails to put the aircraft in an appropriate position and orientation. The aircraft uses its own thrust to climb out of the apparatus into free flight.

Abstract translation: 可以使用适合小型船舶的设备自动检索，维修和启动能够推力飞行的飞机。 为了检索，飞机悬停在具有一个或多个轨道的基座设备上，该轨道结合了飞机可以安全地下降的空间。 当飞机的测量位置和速度合适时，飞机迅速下降，使得飞机上的翼展方向部件与导轨接合。 这些齿限制了飞机的位置和方向，而导轨使飞机休息。 轨道的铰接用于将飞机停放在维修站内。 用于加油，充电和/或功能检查的连接准备发射。 发射通过移除连接和约束并且铰接轨道来实现，以使飞机处于适当的位置和方位。 飞机使用自己的推力从设备中爬出自由飞行。

公开(公告)号：US20130161447A1

公开(公告)日：2013-06-27

申请号：US13527177

申请日：2012-06-19

Applicant: Brian T. McGeer ,  Robert S. Coatney

Inventor： Brian T. McGeer ,  Robert S. Coatney

IPC: B64F1/02

CPC classification number: B64F1/02 ,  B64C39/024 ,  B64C2201/088 ,  B64C2201/108 ,  B64C2201/182 ,  B64F1/04 ,  B64F1/22

Abstract: An aircraft capable of thrust-borne flight can be automatically retrieved, serviced, and launched using equipment suitable for a small vessel. For retrieval, the aircraft hovers over a base apparatus having one or more rails which bound a space into which the aircraft can safely descend. When the aircraft's measured position and velocity are appropriate, the aircraft descends promptly such that a spanwise component on the aircraft engages the rails. The teeth restrain the aircraft in position and orientation, while the rails bring the aircraft to rest. Articulation of the rails is used to park the aircraft in a servicing station. Connections for refueling, recharging, and/or functional checks are made in preparation for launch. Launch is effected by removing connections and restraints and articulating the rails to put the aircraft in an appropriate position and orientation. The aircraft uses its own thrust to climb out of the apparatus into free flight.

Abstract translation: 可以使用适合小型船舶的设备自动检索，维修和启动能够推力飞行的飞机。 为了检索，飞机悬停在具有一个或多个轨道的基座设备上，该轨道结合了飞机可以安全地下降的空间。 当飞机的测量位置和速度合适时，飞机迅速下降，使得飞机上的翼展方向部件与导轨接合。 这些齿限制了飞机的位置和方向，而导轨使飞机休息。 轨道的铰接用于将飞机停放在维修站内。 用于加油，充电和/或功能检查的连接准备发射。 发射通过移除连接和约束并且铰接轨道来实现，以使飞机处于适当的位置和方位。 飞机使用自己的推力从设备中爬出自由飞行。

公开(公告)号：US20110024559A1

公开(公告)日：2011-02-03

申请号：US12702935

申请日：2010-02-09

Applicant: Brian T. McGeer ,  Andreas H. Von Flotow

Inventor： Brian T. McGeer ,  Andreas H. Von Flotow

IPC: B64C25/68

CPC classification number: B64F1/12 ,  B64C25/68 ,  B64C39/024 ,  B64C2201/024 ,  B64C2201/084 ,  B64C2201/182 ,  B64F1/02 ,  B64F1/04 ,  B64F1/06 ,  B64F1/125 ,  B64F1/28 ,  B64F5/00

Abstract: An aircraft capable of thrust-borne flight can be automatically retrieved, serviced, and launched using equipment suitable for use on a small vessel, or a base with similarly limited space or irregular motion. For retrieval, the aircraft drops a weighted cable, and pulls it at low relative speed into a broad aperture of a base apparatus. Continued translation of the aircraft may pull the cable clear of the apparatus, in which case it can continue in free flight and return for another retrieval attempt. Alternatively, the cable will be dragged along guiding surfaces of the apparatus into and through a slot or similar channel, until its free end is captured. The aircraft, having thus become anchored to the base station, is then pulled down by the cable into a receptacle. Guiding surfaces of the receptacle adjust the position and orientation of a probe on the aircraft, while directing the probe to mate with a docking fixture. Once mated to the fixture, the cable can be released and stored aboard the aircraft; the aircraft can be automatically shut down; and fueling or other servicing can be completed through appropriate connectors in the docking fixture. The aircraft can remain docked as needed, and when desired, be automatically started and tested in preparation for launch. It can then be released into free flight. A full ground-handling cycle can thus accomplished with simple and economical apparatus. It can be used with low risk of damage, and only moderate piloting accuracy.

Abstract translation: 可以使用适合在小型船舶上使用的设备或具有相似空间或不规则运动的基座来自动检索，维修和启动能够推力飞行的飞机。 为了进行检索，飞机将一个加权电缆丢弃，并以相对较低的速度将其拉到一个基本设备的宽孔中。 飞机的连续翻译可将电缆从设备中拉出，在这种情况下，它可以继续自由飞行并返回以进行另外的检测尝试。 或者，电缆将沿着设备的引导表面拖入并穿过槽或相似的通道，直到其自由端被捕获。 因此，已经锚定到基站的飞机然后被电缆拉到插座中。 插座的导向面调整飞机上探头的位置和方向，同时引导探头与对接固定装置配合。 一旦配合到固定装置上，电缆可以被释放并存放在飞机上; 飞机可以自动关机; 并且可以通过对接固定装置中的适当连接器来完成加油或其它维修。 飞机可以根据需要保持对接，并且在需要时，可以自动启动和测试以准备发射。 然后可以将其释放到免费飞行中。 因此，可以用简单而经济的装置实现完整的地面处理循环。 它可以使用低损害风险，只有适度的驾驶准确性。

公开(公告)号：US07876359B2

公开(公告)日：2011-01-25

申请号：US10726334

申请日：2003-12-01

Applicant: Andreas H. von Flotow ,  Mathieu Mercadal ,  Brian T. McGeer

Inventor： Andreas H. von Flotow ,  Mathieu Mercadal ,  Brian T. McGeer

IPC: H04N5/228 ,  H04N7/00 ,  H04N5/225

CPC classification number: G01C11/025 ,  G02B27/646 ,  G03B15/006 ,  H04N5/23248 ,  H04N5/23251 ,  H04N5/23264

Abstract: A method and system for stabilizing images being taken by a video camera using electromechanical stabilization. The stabilization system performs inter-frame stabilization based on the velocity of a vehicle on which the video camera is mounted and the pan rate of a line-of-sight controller of the video camera. The inter-frame stabilization is performed by a software component by moving a display area (or viewport) within a larger image area. The stabilization system converts an inter-frame stabilization adjustment into a pan rate adjustment so that the line-of-sight controller will keep the desired object within the image area of the camera.

Abstract translation: 一种用于稳定由摄像机使用机电稳定化拍摄的图像的方法和系统。 稳定系统基于安装有摄像机的车辆的速度和摄像机的视线控制器的平移速率执行帧间稳定。 通过在更大的图像区域内移动显示区域（或视口）由软件组件执行帧间稳定。 稳定系统将帧间稳定调整转换为平移速率调整，使得视线控制器将所需对象保持在相机的图像区域内。

公开(公告)号：US07175135B2

公开(公告)日：2007-02-13

申请号：US10759545

申请日：2004-01-16

Applicant: Brian D. Dennis ,  Brian T. McGeer ,  Cory Roeseler

Inventor： Brian D. Dennis ,  Brian T. McGeer ,  Cory Roeseler

IPC: B64F1/02

CPC classification number: B64C39/024 ,  B64C25/68 ,  B64C2201/042 ,  B64C2201/044 ,  B64C2201/048 ,  B64C2201/084 ,  B64C2201/102 ,  B64C2201/146 ,  B64C2201/165 ,  B64C2201/182 ,  B64C2201/205 ,  B64F1/02 ,  B64F1/04 ,  B64F1/06

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for capturing and constraining motion of unmanned aircraft and other flight devices or projectiles. In one embodiment, the aircraft can be captured at an extendable boom. The boom can be extended to deploy a recovery line to retrieve the aircraft in flight. A trigger mechanism coupled to the recovery line can actuate a hoist device to reduce slack in the recovery line. A tension device coupled to the recovery line can absorb forces associated with the impact of the aircraft on the recovery line.

Abstract translation: 用于捕获和限制无人驾驶飞机和其他飞行装置或射弹的运动的方法和装置。 在一个实施例中，飞机可以在可延伸的吊杆上被捕获。 可以扩展繁荣部署恢复线以在飞行中检索飞机。 联接到回收管线的触发机构可以启动提升装置以减少回收管线中的松弛。 耦合到回收管线的张紧装置可以吸收与飞机在回收管线上的冲击相关联的力。

公开(公告)号：US07712702B2

公开(公告)日：2010-05-11

申请号：US11603810

申请日：2006-11-21

Applicant: Brian T. McGeer ,  Andreas H. von Flotow ,  Cory Roeseler

Inventor： Brian T. McGeer ,  Andreas H. von Flotow ,  Cory Roeseler

IPC: B64F1/06

CPC classification number: B64F1/06 ,  B64C39/024 ,  B64C2201/021 ,  B64C2201/028 ,  B64C2201/042 ,  B64C2201/044 ,  B64C2201/084 ,  B64C2201/104 ,  B64C2201/123 ,  B64C2201/127 ,  B64C2201/165

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for launching unmanned aircraft and other flight devices or projectiles are described. In one embodiment, the aircraft can be launched from an apparatus that includes a launch carriage that moves along a launch guide. The carriage can accelerate when portions of the carriage and/or the launch guide move relative to each other. A gripper carried by the launch carriage can have at least one grip portion in contact with the aircraft while the launch carriage accelerates along the launch axis. The at least one grip portion can move out of contact with the aircraft as the launch carriage decelerates, releasing the aircraft for takeoff. A brake can arrest the motion of the gripper after launch.

Abstract translation: 描述了发射无人机和其他飞行装置或射弹的方法和装置。 在一个实施例中，飞行器可以从包括沿发射导向装置移动的发射台的装置发射。 当滑架和/或发射引导件的部分相对于彼此移动时，托架可以加速。 由发射托架携带的夹具可以具有至少一个与飞行器接触的抓握部分，同时发射托架沿着发射轴加速。 当发射架减速时，至少一个把手部分可以与飞行器脱离接触，释放飞机起飞。 制动器可以在发射后阻止夹具的运动。

公开(公告)号：US06264140B1

公开(公告)日：2001-07-24

申请号：US09426042

申请日：1999-10-25

Applicant: Brian T. McGeer ,  Andreas H. von Flotow ,  Cory Roeseler ,  Clifford Jackson

Inventor： Brian T. McGeer ,  Andreas H. von Flotow ,  Cory Roeseler ,  Clifford Jackson

IPC: B64C2568

CPC classification number: B64C39/024 ,  B64C25/68 ,  B64C2201/104 ,  B64C2201/148 ,  B64C2201/182 ,  B64C2201/205 ,  B64F1/02

Abstract: A method and apparatus for retrieving an aircraft in a confined space involves hanging a cable, for example from a kite or mast, across the aircraft's flight path. The aircraft approaches the cable in steady forward flight, and may strike the cable at any point on the wing, fuselage, or other leading surface. The cable then slides along the airframe as the aircraft moves forward, until it is intercepted by a hook attached to the wing tip or other convenient location. The hook captures the cable, and prevents further sliding; the cable then pulls the aircraft to a stop. Compliance of the cable, optionally combined with compliance of the cable suspension, provides acceptably gradual deceleration. The aircraft is left suspended in mid-air, and is then winched or slid to the base of the cable or other convenient retrieval point. The cable suspension and other fixed objects can be kept well clear of the flight path, so that the aircraft can continue safely in the event that it misses the cable, and make another approach.

Abstract translation: 用于在密闭空间中检索飞行器的方法和装置涉及将诸如风筝或桅杆的电缆悬挂在飞机的飞行路径上。 飞机在稳定的前进飞行中接近电缆，并可能在机翼，机身或其他前导表面上的任何一点撞击电缆。 随着飞机向前移动，电缆随着机身滑动，直到被挂在翼尖或其他便利位置的钩子拦截。 钩子捕获电缆，并防止进一步滑动; 电缆然后拉飞机停下来。 电缆的符合性，可选地与电缆悬架的顺应性相结合，提供可接受的逐渐减速。 飞机悬挂在半空中，然后被绞盘或滑动到电缆的基座或其他方便的检索点。 电缆悬架和其他固定物体可以保持远离飞行路径，使飞机在错过电缆的情况下可以安全地继续，并进行另一种方法。

公开(公告)号：US20120273612A1

公开(公告)日：2012-11-01

申请号：US13540032

申请日：2012-07-02

Applicant: Brian T. McGeer ,  Andreas H. von Flotow ,  Corydon C. Roeseler

Inventor： Brian T. McGeer ,  Andreas H. von Flotow ,  Corydon C. Roeseler

IPC: B64F1/22 ,  B64F1/04

CPC classification number: B64F1/02 ,  B64C39/024 ,  B64C2201/021 ,  B64C2201/024 ,  B64C2201/182 ,  B64F1/04 ,  B64F5/00

Abstract: For retrieval of a hovering aircraft, a cable, bar, or similar fixture is suspended in an approximately horizontal orientation across the retrieval area between two well-separated supports. The aircraft slowly flies into this fixture, which then slides along the aircraft in a direction approximately parallel with the aircraft's thrust line. This leads to the aircraft becoming fastened to the fixture by an interceptor or aircraft capturer, which in alternative embodiments are respectively on the aircraft or the fixture or both. Thrust is then reduced, and the aircraft comes to rest hanging from the fixture for subsequent removal. Retrieval is thus accomplished with simple and economical apparatus, light and unobtrusive elements on the aircraft, low risk of damage, and only moderate piloting accuracy.

Abstract translation: 为了检索悬停的飞行器，电缆，杆或类似的固定装置悬挂在两个分离好的支撑件之间的取回区域的大致水平的方向上。 飞机慢慢地飞入这个固定装置，然后沿着与飞机的推力线大致平行的方向沿飞机滑动。 这导致飞行器通过拦截器或飞行器捕获器被固定到固定装置上，在替代实施例中飞行器或飞机捕获器分别在飞行器或固定装置上或两者上。 然后减小推力，飞机从固定装置上休息，以便随后拆卸。 因此，在飞机上使用简单经济的装置，轻便和不引人注意的元件来实现检索，损坏风险低，而且只有适度的驾驶准确性。

公开(公告)号：US08245968B2

公开(公告)日：2012-08-21

申请号：US13024843

申请日：2011-02-10

Applicant: Brian T. McGeer ,  Andreas H. von Flotow ,  Corydon C. Roeseler

Inventor： Brian T. McGeer ,  Andreas H. von Flotow ,  Corydon C. Roeseler

IPC: B64F1/02 ,  B64F1/04

CPC classification number: B64F1/02 ,  B64C39/024 ,  B64C2201/021 ,  B64C2201/024 ,  B64C2201/182 ,  B64F1/04 ,  B64F5/00

Abstract: For retrieval of a hovering aircraft, a cable, bar, or similar fixture is suspended in an approximately horizontal orientation across the retrieval area between two well-separated supports. The aircraft slowly flies into this fixture, which then slides along the aircraft in a direction approximately parallel with the aircraft's thrust line. This leads to the aircraft becoming fastened to the fixture by an interceptor or aircraft capturer, which in alternative embodiments are respectively on the aircraft or the fixture or both. Thrust is then reduced, and the aircraft comes to rest hanging from the fixture for subsequent removal. Retrieval is thus accomplished with simple and economical apparatus, light and unobtrusive elements on the aircraft, low risk of damage, and only moderate piloting accuracy.

Abstract translation: 为了检索悬停的飞行器，电缆，杆或类似的固定装置悬挂在两个分离好的支撑件之间的取回区域的大致水平的方向上。 飞机慢慢地飞入这个固定装置，然后沿着与飞机的推力线大致平行的方向沿飞机滑动。 这导致飞行器通过拦截器或飞行器捕获器被固定到固定装置上，在替代实施例中飞行器或飞机捕获器分别在飞行器或固定装置上或两者上。 然后减小推力，飞机从固定装置上休息，以便随后拆卸。 因此，在飞机上使用简单经济的装置，轻便和不引人注意的元件来实现检索，损坏风险低，而且只有适度的驾驶准确性。

公开(公告)号：US20110133024A1

公开(公告)日：2011-06-09

申请号：US13024843

申请日：2011-02-10

Applicant: Brian T. McGeer ,  Andreas H. van Flotow ,  Corydon C. Roeseler

Inventor： Brian T. McGeer ,  Andreas H. van Flotow ,  Corydon C. Roeseler

IPC: B64F1/02 ,  B64F1/04

CPC classification number: B64F1/02 ,  B64C39/024 ,  B64C2201/021 ,  B64C2201/024 ,  B64C2201/182 ,  B64F1/04 ,  B64F5/00

Abstract: For retrieval of a hovering aircraft, a cable, bar, or similar fixture is suspended in an approximately horizontal orientation across the retrieval area between two well-separated supports. The aircraft slowly flies into this fixture, which then slides along the aircraft in a direction approximately parallel with the aircraft's thrust line. This leads to the aircraft becoming fastened to the fixture by an interceptor or aircraft capturer, which in alternative embodiments are respectively on the aircraft or the fixture or both. Thrust is then reduced, and the aircraft comes to rest hanging from the fixture for subsequent removal. Retrieval is thus accomplished with simple and economical apparatus, light and unobtrusive elements on the aircraft, low risk of damage, and only moderate piloting accuracy.

Abstract translation: 为了检索悬停的飞行器，电缆，杆或类似的固定装置悬挂在两个分离好的支撑件之间的取回区域的大致水平的方向上。 飞机慢慢地飞入这个固定装置，然后沿着与飞机的推力线大致平行的方向沿飞机滑动。 这导致飞行器通过拦截器或飞行器捕获器被固定到固定装置上，在替代实施例中飞行器或飞机捕获器分别在飞行器或固定装置上或两者上。 然后减小推力，飞机从固定装置上休息，以便随后拆卸。 因此，在飞机上使用简单经济的装置，轻便和不引人注意的元件来实现检索，损坏风险低，而且只有适度的驾驶准确性。