Patents Issued in January 19, 2017
  • Publication number: 20170015368
    Abstract: A working vehicle includes a cabin. the cabin, which covers a steering seat disposed on a travelling machine body, includes a cabin frame constituting a framework of the cabin, and a roof assembly disposed on the upper end side of the cabin frame. A tailpipe is disposed on one side among a left side and a right side of the travelling machine body. Exhaust gas from an engine, mounted on the travelling machine body, is discharged to the outside through the tailpipe. The roof assembly is partitioned into a front-side chamber and a rear-side chamber, and an air conditioner is contained in a rear-side chamber side. An external-air intake opening is formed on one side opposite the tailpipe among a left side and a right side of the roof assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventor: Ryuuichi MIYAZAKI
  • Publication number: 20170015369
    Abstract: A side skirt assembly for attachment to a trailer of a tractor-trailer, particularly to a trailer frame comprising transverse structural support members extending between sides of the trailer. The side skirt assembly comprises an elongated skirt panel, an elongated support and one or more skirt support members. The side skirt assemble comprises an inner surface and an outer surface. The elongated support is coupled to the elongated skirt panel on the inner surface thereof proximate an upper edge of the elongated skirt panel and extends at least a portion of the length of the elongated skirt panel. The more skirt support members couple the elongated skirt panel to a corresponding one or more or of the transverse structural support members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventor: Richard P. Senatro
  • Publication number: 20170015370
    Abstract: A stackable vehicle is provided and includes a deck, pairs of controllable support elements at each of a first pair of opposed minor surfaces of the deck and comprising a first leg affixed to the deck and transversely telescopic relative to a corresponding minor surface plane, a second leg coupled to a distal end of the first leg and telescopic in parallel with the corresponding minor surface plane and a pivotable and rotatable wheel disposed at a distal end of the second leg and pairs of controllable support elements at each of a second pair of opposed minor surfaces of the deck and comprising a first leg affixed to the deck, a second leg coupled to a distal end of the first leg and telescopic in parallel with a corresponding minor surface plane and a pivotable and rotatable wheel disposed at a distal end of the second leg.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2015
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: Michael Goren, Jeremy E. Goren
  • Publication number: 20170015371
    Abstract: A trailer hitch for hitching a trailer to a motor vehicle is disclosed wherein the motor vehicle has a chassis supported by axles suspended from the motor vehicle chassis, the trailer has a chassis supported by one or more axles suspended from the trailer chassis, and the trailer hitch is adapted to hitch the trailer chassis to the motor vehicle chassis for movement therewith and also cause the trailer chassis to help support the motor vehicle chassis to a variable degree via the trailer hitch and in a manner determined by the spring action provided by the trailer axle suspension system(s). And wherein the trailer hitch is also adapted to allow the hitched trailer chassis to turn with respect to the motor vehicle chassis and prevent such turning and to stow a hitched trailer chassis on the motor vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2015
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: Brooks Strong, Joshua Cayne Fisher
  • Publication number: 20170015372
    Abstract: A dual trailing axle suspension system is disclosed wherein a pair of trailing axles are suspended from an auxiliary chassis with axle suspensions that provide spring action for isolating road-induced axle movement from the auxiliary chassis. And the auxiliary chassis is suspended from a chassis of a motor vehicle by an auxiliary chassis suspension adapted to deploy the auxiliary chassis from a stowed location on the motor vehicle to a deployed location at a substantial distance behind the motor vehicle chassis. And the auxiliary chassis suspension is adapted to cause the auxiliary chassis to help support the motor vehicle chassis to a variable degree by acting on the auxiliary chassis at a location between the two axles and in a manner determined by whether the spring action provided by the axle suspensions is set or variable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2015
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: Brooks Strong, Joshua Cayne Fisher
  • Publication number: 20170015373
    Abstract: A manufacturing plant (1) includes a plurality of mutually uniform modular manufacturing stations (2) which are arranged in a station matrix (5) and are interlinked for conveying by a conveyor device (16) and a path network (17). The manufacturing stations (2) are modular and include a plurality of integrated manufacturing cells (7,8) and each has its own process area (9).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2015
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventor: Paul THORWARTH
  • Publication number: 20170015374
    Abstract: A manufacturing plant (1), for workpieces (29), includes a plurality of manufacturing stations (2 to 5) and a conveying system (9) for conveying the workpieces within the manufacturing plant (1) and between the manufacturing stations (2 to 5). Mobile automatic conveying devices (13, 14, 15) travel on a conveying path network (11) of a plurality of interlinked conveying paths (10) intersecting each other. The conveying paths (10) are connected to a plurality of manufacturing stations (2 to 5) arranged in a station matrix (8).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2015
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventor: Paul THORWARTH
  • Publication number: 20170015375
    Abstract: A training wheel apparatus for learning to ride a bicycle includes a lift activation assembly, wherein the lift activation assembly includes a grip. The training wheel apparatus further includes a wheel mount assembly configured to operatively connect to a wheel. The training wheel apparatus further includes a cable configured to operatively connect to the lift activation assembly and the wheel mount assembly via the grip. When activated by rotation of the grip in a first direction, the lift activation assembly is configured to use the cable to change an elevation of the wheel between a first position and a second position while the wheel is in motion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventor: Peyton Webb Robertson
  • Publication number: 20170015376
    Abstract: Assembly for giving access to at least one wheelchair (1) comprising a frame (2) supported by wheels (5, 7) and provided with a seat (3), the assembly comprising a docking station (100) having a structure (201) delimiting at least one docking point designed to receive the chair such that, when the chair is in the docking point, the chair rests on its wheels and the seat of the chair is disposed so as to be usable by a user who wishes to sit down.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2015
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Applicant: MYD"L"
    Inventor: Pierre Belman
  • Publication number: 20170015377
    Abstract: A grip cover for a bicycle control device includes a high durometer portion that is configured to engage the bicycle control device to maintain the grip cover in contact with the bicycle control device. The grip cover further includes a low durometer portion that is connected to the high durometer portion. The low durometer portion is configured to be tensioned by the high durometer portion when the grip cover is installed on the bicycle control device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2015
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Applicant: SRAM, LLC
    Inventor: PAUL A. FEUERSTEIN
  • Publication number: 20170015378
    Abstract: A direction indicator and rearview mirror structure for a vehicle includes a direction indicator and a rearview mirror having a mirror housing. The direction indicator angularly and adjustably supports the mirror housing. The mirror housing is mounted with at least a part thereof disposed above and in front of the direction indicator. In a plan view, the mirror housing overlaps the direction indicator at least partially and covers the direction indicator from above. A recessed portion housing an upper part of a vehicle-widthwise outer part of the direction indicator is formed in a lower part of the mirror housing. In a side view, a front part of the recessed portion with respect to a vehicle body protrudes forward and downward with respect to the vehicle body and serves as an eaves portion covering a front upper part of the direction indicator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventor: Dai TAKAKUWA
  • Publication number: 20170015379
    Abstract: Various examples are provided for adaption of a front fork of a motorcycle. In one example, an adapter includes a slot extending inward from a proximal end of the adapter; axle openings on opposite sides of the adapter; and access openings extending inward from a distal end of the adapter to the slot. The slot can be configured to align with an end of a fork leg assembly of a motorcycle and the axle openings can be configured to align with an axle channel of the fork leg assembly. The access openings can provide access to fasteners of the fork leg assembly. In another example, a method includes positioning an adapter on the end of the fork leg assembly, inserting an axle into an axle channel through axle openings of the adapter, and securing the end cap onto the axle using fasteners accessible through openings of the adapter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: Misty Michelle McNeeley, Dennis Eugene McNeeley
  • Publication number: 20170015380
    Abstract: An impact absorbing mechanism for a wheel is provided. The mechanism has discs that are engaged so that rotation of a first disc causes translational movement of a second disc. A restraining member such as a spring acts against translational movement of the second disc to absorb energy from a head on collision or aggressive braking. Once the mechanism is fully activated, teeth on the first and second discs engage to prevent kick back from the restraining member. In some embodiments, a ratchet mechanism is provided to prevent kick back from the restraining member even when the impact absorbing mechanism is not fully activated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventor: Duncan Bayard STOTHERS
  • Publication number: 20170015381
    Abstract: A tube structure for a bike is revealed. It comprises a tube having a closed wall and an inner hollow space defined by the closed wall. The inner hollow space is filled with the foam material to form an inner foam layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2015
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventor: WEI-CHIN CHEN
  • Publication number: 20170015382
    Abstract: In a cowl stay structure for a vehicle which is mounted on a front end part of a body frame having a pair of main frames extending longitudinally to the left and right, and which supports a cowling, a cowl stay supporting the cowling has a front opening which serves as a duct with a hollow structure designed to guide the air taken in from a front side of a vehicle body to an air cleaner box. The cowl stay is mounted on a front surface of a head pipe arranged on the front end of the body frame for establishing a flow path of the front opening with said head pipe opening. A headlight configured to irradiate an area in front of a vehicle with light is placed inside the cowl stay. Such a cowl stay structure has reduced size and weight, and it supports multiple parts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: Dai TAKAKUWA, Hirotsugu UENO
  • Publication number: 20170015383
    Abstract: Provided is a routing structure for a braking force-transmitting member in a motorcycle in which a front part of a unit-swing engine supporting a rear wheel is supported on a vehicle body frame via a link mechanism, and the braking force-transmitting member is routed to extend in the fore-and-aft direction so as to transmit a braking force to a rear wheel brake disposed coaxially with the rear wheel, wherein the link mechanism includes a first link linked to the vehicle body frame and a second link linked to the unit-swing engine while having an engine suspension boss portion pivotably linked to the first link, and a guide member retaining the braking force-transmitting member extending in the fore-and-aft direction beneath the unit-swing engine is mounted on the second link. This can suppress swinging of a braking force-transmitting member and enables the mass around the braking force-transmitting member to be concentrated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2015
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: Takeshi OKANIWA, Koji KOBAYASHI
  • Publication number: 20170015384
    Abstract: A front fork includes a pair of telescopic tube members and an upper bracket on an upper side and an under bracket on a lower side. The upper bracket and the under bracket couple vehicle body side tubes of the pair of tube members and couple the vehicle body side tubes to a vehicle body side. The upper bracket includes a pair of cap portions into which upper side opening portions of the vehicle body side tubes are inwardly inserted. The cap portions cover upper side openings of the tube members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2015
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Applicant: KYB Corporation
    Inventor: Norihiko KURITA
  • Publication number: 20170015385
    Abstract: A bicycle pedal which is rotatably installed on a crank of a bicycle includes a pedal body and an axle. The pedal body includes an axle bore transversely passing through two ends thereof. The axle is formed in a straight column shape and passes through the axle bore. The axle is provided with a first end and a second end. The first end is screwedly mounted to the crank. The second end is provided with a blocking portion resisting against an outer edge of the pedal body. The pedal body rotates against the axle. A tool driving portion is disposed on an outer side of the second end for a tool to drive. With such configuration, the first end is fastened to be attached to the crank or loosened to be detached from the crank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventor: WEN-HWA LIN
  • Publication number: 20170015386
    Abstract: A boat hull with port and starboard side walls that are vertical in cross section whilst the bottom of the hull immediately prior to the commencement of the stern part there-after is horizontal in cross section. Extending throughout the buoyant hulls stern part a longitudinally rectangular flat plate with port and starboard upwardly extending side walls, one each side, are located throughout the length of the vessels stern part. An upwardly directed second rectangular flat plate is arranged fore/aft extends midway between the afore-said side walls to a height in excess of the said side walls. This upstanding plate butts its lowermost edge onto the mid-line of the first said plate. Linking the forward edge of the said longitudinally rectangular plate to the buoyant hull at its aftmost and deepest point are hinges.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2014
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventor: Anthony Hugh ORR
  • Publication number: 20170015387
    Abstract: A vessel (1) has at least three cavities that are distributed across the bottom in the length direction along a line extending from the center line near the bow, to a respective side. Furthermore, the vessel accommodates for each cavity or pair of cavities on opposite sides of the center line at a predetermined length position, a corresponding compressor for injecting air into the cavity at a pressure substantially corresponding to the hydrostatic pressure in each cavity. Each cavity (33) may include a deflector that has an elongate part (29, 34, 34?) extending in the length direction of the cavity over at least at least 5%, preferably at least 10% of the cavity length L. An air inlet opening (23) may be provided in the top wall (19).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2015
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: Johannes JOHANNNESSON, Noah SILBERSCHMIDT, Jorgen CLAUSEN
  • Publication number: 20170015388
    Abstract: A system (16) for providing an air lubricating layer between a substantially flat bottom (6) of the hull (4) of a vessel (1) and water flowing under the bottom as the vessel is moving through the water. The system has a cavity (33) with a deflector. The deflector has an elongate part (29,34,34?) extending in the length direction of the cavity over at least at least 5%, preferably at least 10% of the cavity length L, wherein a projected area of the at least one deflector member (24,24?-26,26?) on the interface plane (30) covers at least 25%, preferably at least 50%, most preferably at least 75% of the surface area of the interface plane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2015
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: Johannes JOHANNNESSON, Noah SILBERSCHMIDT, Jorgen CLAUSEN
  • Publication number: 20170015389
    Abstract: A boat includes a hull provided with a rear stern hatch located in correspondence with an internal stern compartment of the hull and suitable for opening and closing in correspondence with an aperture of the compartment, the hatch having a body with opposed side located in correspondence with side walls of the compartment and a upper edge and a lower edge. The hatch includes an actuator to open and close the compartment arranged inside its own body. The actuator rotatably constraining at least one of the sides of the hatch to the hull. The body being not provided with any further connections of the sides to the hull.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2015
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventor: Andrea FRABETTI
  • Publication number: 20170015390
    Abstract: A shallow water anchor is provided. The shallow water anchor comprises a first anchor extension and a second anchor extension axially received by a housing. The first anchor extension is axially received by the second anchor extension such that the first and second anchor extensions are sequentially deployable from the housing using an actuation arrangement. The actuation arrangement is controlled by a control interface that is operable to detect when the shallow water anchor has reached a fully extended state and fully retracted state. The shallow water anchor further includes a biasing compensator that compensates for fluctuations in the overall depth of water the anchor is deployed in due to waves or other anomalies.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Applicant: Johnson Outdoors Inc.
    Inventors: Darrel A. Bernloehr, Gregory Paul Beamer, David M. Samek
  • Publication number: 20170015391
    Abstract: Techniques and systems to reduce movement of at least one portion of an offshore platform. One portion of the offshore platform can provide a connection to a seafloor. A second portion of the offshore platform provides a lateral force to the first portion of the offshore platform while allowing for vertical movement between the first portion and the second portion of the offshore platform.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventor: Van Van Vu
  • Publication number: 20170015392
    Abstract: A kayak paddle and accessory mounting system is a system for securely holding a kayak paddle and various accessories on a kayak. The system is mounted and elevated over the kayak cockpit in order to allow for the use of a spray skirt in conjunction with the present invention. A fore width adjustable support assembly and an aft width adjustable support assembly allow the system to be adjusted to accommodate various sizes and designs of kayaks and additionally serve to offset an accessory tray over the kayak cockpit. An at least one paddle holder clip and an at least one accessory holder allow for the mounting of a kayak paddle and an accessory such as a fishing net. The accessory tray may be closed via a lid in order to more securely hold accessories and personal belongings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2015
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventor: Timothy Johnson
  • Publication number: 20170015393
    Abstract: This invention relates to recreational flotation devices, and particularly to floating mattresses or lounges, and to a method for manufacturing same.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventor: Paul Osimo
  • Publication number: 20170015394
    Abstract: A method for reducing marine growth on a vessel, includes providing an air lubrication system and covering at least a part of the hull with air bubbles. Also described is a vessel having an air lubricating system with releasable connection of the deflectors across the cavity, a closeable outlet valve in the air outlet duct, connection of a compressor to each cavity or pair of cavities and an air inlet opening in the top of the cavity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2015
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: Johannes JOHANNESSON, Noah SILBERSCHMIDT, Jorgen CLAUSEN
  • Publication number: 20170015395
    Abstract: An underwater base for handling plural underwater vehicles equipped with seismic sensors for recording seismic signals during a marine seismic survey. The underwater base including a storing part configured to store the plural underwater vehicles; an inlet part located above the storing part and configured to control access of the plural underwater vehicles to the storing part; a control part configured to acoustically guide the plural underwater vehicles to the inlet part; and a support part configured to support the control part, the storing part and the inlet part. The storing part is further configured to receive the plural underwater vehicles as the plural underwater vehicles fall from the inlet part into the storing part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: Antoine LELAURIN, Thierry BRIZARD
  • Publication number: 20170015396
    Abstract: A propellable aquatic board includes a main body that is at least partially buoyant. The propellable aquatic board also includes a flexible member secured to the main body by a fastener. The flexible member extends away from the main body in a longitudinal direction. The flexible member is configured to selectively deflect to propel the aquatic board through water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventor: Wayne H. Strak
  • Publication number: 20170015397
    Abstract: An electric propulsion system for use in marine applications. The system comprises rechargeable battery cells, AC or DC electric motors for propulsion, control units to manage the flow of energy between the battery cells and the motor, a water cooling loop that pumps water through heat exchangers then out of the watercraft for thermal management. Closed cooling loops may be employed to thermally manage the motor, batteries, controllers, inverters, charging apparatus and other components by running through coolant through the cooling loops to properly chill or heat the coolant fluid. The unit is charged through shore based power, solar and other sources, including the possibility of power sources through hull or hanging turbines to generate mechanical energy from the flow of water as the watercraft is propelled. The whole system is controlled by a vehicle control unit and a battery management system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: Sean McGrath Mitchell, William Stuart Price, II
  • Publication number: 20170015398
    Abstract: An asymmetric propulsion mechanism capable of providing both axial thrust as well as lateral maneuverability from a single axis of rotation is described. The mechanism may be used on aquatic vehicles to minimize cost and maximize reliability and endurance. The mechanism comprises one or more propeller blades disposed asymmetrically around a rotating hub under the guidance of a control system including a motor capable of driving the propeller at various radial speeds throughout the course of a single revolution.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2015
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: Thomas AUSTIN, Michael PURCELL, Frederic JAFFRE, Jeffrey KAELI, Ben ALLEN, Robin LITTLEFIELD
  • Publication number: 20170015399
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for use with a marine vessel having a first steerable propeller and a second steerable propeller is disclosed. The apparatus and method providing for movement of the first and second steerable propellers relative to each other and also maintains a minimum distance between the first and second steerable propellers so as to prevent the first and second steerable from contacting each other. Also disclosed is a control system and method to control the first steerable propeller and the second steerable propeller to provide the fixed distance between the first and second steerable propellers and so as to individually control the first steerable propeller and the second steerable propellers to allow the first steerable propeller and the second steerable propeller to move relative to each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventor: Robert A. Morvillo
  • Publication number: 20170015400
    Abstract: A system for controlling a marine vessel having first and second steering nozzles and corresponding first and second reversing buckets, comprises a processor configured to receive a first vessel control signal including at least a component corresponding to a translational thrust command in a port direction, and that is configured to provide a set of actuator control signals coupled to and control the first and second reversing buckets. The processor is configured to provide the set of actuator control signals so as to maintain the first reversing bucket substantially in a first discrete position and the second reversing bucket substantially in a second discrete position as long as the first vessel control signal includes a component corresponding to a translational thrust command in the port direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventor: Robert A. Morvillo
  • Publication number: 20170015401
    Abstract: A trussed structure comprising a frame and at least one strut, wherein the frame is of composite material and includes sockets which are integral with the frame. The invention also provides a process of making the trussed structures. The struts are typically of composite material and the trussed structures of the invention are particularly suitable for use in aircraft, for example, as wing ribs or floor beams.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventor: Allan Kaye
  • Publication number: 20170015402
    Abstract: An aircraft comprises a fuselage, a wing assembly, and a pinned fuselage-to-wing connection including a forward pin joint, an aft pin joint, and intermediate pin joints between the forward and aft pin joints. The intermediate pin joints have pins aligned in an axial direction and are configured to slide along the axial direction without transferring axial loads from the wing assembly to the fuselage. At least one of the forward and aft pin joints is constrained to prevent translation along the axial direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2015
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Applicant: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Branko Lakic, David H. Leibov
  • Publication number: 20170015403
    Abstract: An unmanned aerial vehicle arm adjustment device for adjusting an unmanned aerial vehicle arm into a folding state or an extracting state with respect to a fuselage of the aerial vehicle includes: left and right curb plates connected to the fuselage; a rocking arm connected to the unmanned aerial vehicle arm, wherein one end of the rocking arm is articulated with the left and right curb plates, and a first engaging part is provided on the rocking arm; and a locking member articulated with the left and right curb plates, wherein the locking member is provided with a second engaging part for engaging with the first engaging part; wherein the locking member is adapted to rotate in a first direction to force the second engaging part to engage with the first engaging part so as to hold the rocking arm such that the unmanned aerial vehicle arm is in the extracting state; and wherein the locking member is adapted to rotate in a second direction opposite to the first direction to force the second engaging part to dis
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: Yucheng LIANG, Fuhua AI
  • Publication number: 20170015404
    Abstract: Hub assembly and propeller blade assemblies incorporating partial hub assembly having a backing plate with a set of partial root seats and a set of clamps selectively operably couplable to the backing plate with each clamp defining a second partial root seat and wherein when a clamp is coupled to the backing plate a root seat is formed, propeller blades having roots are received within the root seats.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2015
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: Rajendra Vishwanath PAWAR, David Raju YAMARTHI, Amit Arvind KURVINKOP, Sandeep KUMAR, Murugesan PERIASAMY, Ravindra Shankar GANIGER, Bajarang AGRAWAL, Nagashiresha G
  • Publication number: 20170015405
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and process-readable media include an autonomous vehicle override control system that receives override commands from a pilot qualified on a first type of unmanned autonomous vehicle (UAV) and translates the inputs into suitable commands transmitted to a target UAV of a second UAV type. A pilot's certification for a first UAV type may be determined from the pilot's login credentials. The system may obtain a first control model for the first UAV type and a second control model for the target UAV. Pilot input commands processed through the first control model may be used to calculate movements of a virtual UAV of the type. The system may estimate physical movement of the target UAV similar to the first physical movement, and generate an override command for the target UAV using the second control model and the second physical movement. Control models may accommodate current conditions and pilot experience.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2015
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: Kiet Tuan Chau, Michael-David Nakayoshi Canoy, Michael Orlando DeVico, Stephen Alton Sprigg
  • Publication number: 20170015406
    Abstract: A winglet system for an aircraft wing includes an upper winglet and a lower winglet mounted to a wing. The lower winglet has a static position when the wing is subject to an on-ground static loading. The lower winglet is configured such that upward deflection of the wing under an approximate 1-g flight loading causes the lower winglet to move upwardly and outwardly from the static position to an in-flight position resulting in an effective span increase of the wing under the approximate 1-g flight loading relative to the span of the wing under the on-ground static loading. The lower winglet is configured to aeroelastically deflect upwardly under the approximate 1-g flight loading and further increase the effective span of the wing beyond the effective span increase that is caused by the upward deflection of the wing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: Dino L. Roman, John C. Vassberg, Douglas M. Friedman, Adam P. Malachowski, Christopher A. Vegter
  • Publication number: 20170015407
    Abstract: A fluid interface device, such as an airfoil assembly, can include a device structure and at least one movable band oriented such that the band moves in a direction of fluid flow. The at least one movable band can be supported on the device structure such that an outer surface of the movable band is exposed along the device structure and is capable of movement relative thereto such that a relative velocity can be maintained between the outer surface and the device structure. The fluid interface device can also include an edge extension disposed along the leading edge of the device structure. An airplane, a wind turbine and a method are also included.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventor: Theodore M. Garver
  • Publication number: 20170015408
    Abstract: A aircraft landing gear for an aircraft, comprising a plurality of wheels, an electrically powered drive system comprising a drive motor arranged to drive at least one of the plurality of wheels, and an electrically powered braking system comprising a brake arranged to brake at least one of the plurality of wheels. A power supply unit is arranged to provide a supply of power to the electrically powered drive system, and also to the electrically powered braking system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: John REES, George IORDANIDIS, Michael YATES
  • Publication number: 20170015409
    Abstract: A gearbox for driving a sprocket includes a gear train and an output shaft assembly positioned between the gear train and a power output end of the gearbox. The output shaft assembly includes, a first shaft segment extending to the power output a second shaft segment coupled to the gear train and a torsion spring interposed between the first shaft segment and the second shaft segment. Upon non-conjugate meshing of the sprocket, the torsion spring expands and contracts so that the angular velocity of the second shaft segment differs from the angular velocity of the first shaft segment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2015
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Applicant: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC.
    Inventors: Donald Jeffrey Christensen, Robert Mitchell
  • Publication number: 20170015410
    Abstract: A method of controlling a drive system of an aircraft. The drive system comprised a drive motor arranged to drive at least one wheel of an aircraft landing gear. A power signal indicative of a power level for the drive motor and a speed signal indicative of a rotation speed of the drive motor are received. A torque level for the drive motor is determined using the power signal and the speed signal. The drive motor is then driven such that the torque generated by the drive motor is at the determined torque level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: Antonio COLOSIMO, Lukasz SZNAJDER, Xavier GUERY
  • Publication number: 20170015411
    Abstract: The invention relates to a drive chain for driving the rotor(s) (21, 22) of a helicopter, comprising a main transmission gearbox (24) capable of driving the rotor(s) (21, 22) when said gearbox is moving, a main engine (23) for providing the power for the flight, and at least one assistance drive module (31), the main engine (23) and the assistance drive module (31) being mechanically connected to said main transmission gearbox (24) so as to induce the movement of said gearbox. The drive chain is characterised in that the assistance drive module comprises a pyrotechnic device for generating a torque on a power transmission shaft that is mechanically connected to the main transmission gearbox (24). The invention also relates to a helicopter comprising said drive chain.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2015
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventor: Jean-Louis Robert Guy BESSE
  • Publication number: 20170015412
    Abstract: A rotor-based remote flying vehicle platform comprises a central frame with a control center that is configured to control motors mounted to the vehicle platform. A first arm is connected to the central frame and extends outward. A first motor is mounted to the first arm. The first motor is in communication with the control center. Further, a first tilt actuator is configured to tilt the first motor within a first plane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2016
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventor: George Michael Matus
  • Publication number: 20170015413
    Abstract: A lift fan for use in short takeoff and vertical landing (STOVL) aircraft is disclosed and claimed. The lift fan is driven by bleed air from a main engine of the aircraft and may be controlled by an electromagnet. This eliminates the drag and torque on the main engine and reduces fuel cost and engine wear.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2015
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: Ruben GARCIA, Neil ECHON
  • Publication number: 20170015414
    Abstract: A system and method for repowering an unmanned aircraft system is disclosed. The system and method may comprise use of a utility transmission system configured to function as power system/source for UAV/aircraft and UAV/aircraft configured to interface with the power source/system. Systems and methods provide access and for administrating, managing, and monitoring access and interfacing by UAV/aircraft with the power system/source. UAV/aircraft system can be configured and operated/managed to interface with and use the power system/source (e.g. network of power lines from a utility transmission system) to enhance range and utility (e.g. for repowering and/or as a flyway or route). The system comprises an interface between the aircraft and the power source for power transfer; a monitoring system to monitor the aircraft; and an administrative/management system to manage interaction/transaction with the aircraft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2015
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: ALISTAIR K. CHAN, JESSE R. CHEATHAM, III, HON WAH CHIN, WILLIAM DAVID DUNCAN, RODERICK A. HYDE, MURIEL Y. ISHIKAWA, JORDIN T. KARE, TONY S. PAN, ROBERT C. PETROSKI, CLARENCE T. TEGREENE, DAVID B. TUCKERMAN, YAROSLAV A. URZHUMOV, THOMAS ALLAN WEAVER, LOWELL L. WOOD, JR., VICTORIA Y.H. WOOD
  • Publication number: 20170015415
    Abstract: A system and method for repowering an unmanned aircraft system is disclosed. The system and method may comprise use of a utility transmission system configured to function as power system/source for UAV/aircraft and UAV/aircraft configured to interface with the power source/system. Systems and methods provide access and for administrating, managing, and monitoring access and interfacing by UAV/aircraft with the power system/source. UAV/aircraft system can be configured and operated/managed to interface with and use the power system/source (e.g. network of power lines from a utility transmission system) to enhance range and utility (e.g. for repowering and/or as a flyway or route). The system comprises an interface between the aircraft and the power source for power transfer; a monitoring system to monitor the aircraft; and an administrative/management system to manage interaction/transaction with the aircraft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2015
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventors: ALISTAIR K. CHAN, JESSE R. CHEATHAM, III, HON WAH CHIN, WILLIAM DAVID DUNCAN, RODERICK A. HYDE, MURIEL Y. ISHIKAWA, JORDIN T. KARE, TONY S. PAN, ROBERT C. PETROSKI, CLARENCE T. TEGREENE, DAVID B. TUCKERMAN, YAROSLAV A. URZHUMOV, THOMAS ALLAN WEAVER, LOWELL L. WOOD, Jr., VICTORIA Y.H. WOOD
  • Publication number: 20170015416
    Abstract: A method and system utilizing one or more agricultural drones in combination with agricultural equipment, e.g., an agricultural boom sprayer, to evaluate the crops being farmed, and to improve the real-time delivery and dispensing of liquid from the sprayer including monitoring and verifying that the liquid is being dispensed correctly and/or in accordance with a desired distribution pattern or level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2015
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Applicant: TOPCON POSITIONING SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: Raymond M. O'Connor, Ivan Giovanni Di Federico
  • Publication number: 20170015417
    Abstract: A propulsion system for a ducted fan vertical takeoff and landing aircraft (VTOL) powered by multiple electric motors with two, counter rotating electric motors comprising the primary thrust generation within a ducted fan component and 3 or more external electric motors providing lift, stability and directional control of the aircraft. Through the use of counter rotating ducted fans, the aircraft does not require the need for internal stators—either fixed or adjustable angle. Power to the electric motors is sourced by either onboard batteries, a ground based power source via a ground to aircraft tether, or an on board fuel cell or combustion engine driving an alternator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2015
    Publication date: January 19, 2017
    Inventor: Allen Paul Bishop