Patents Issued in May 25, 2017
  • Publication number: 20170144740
    Abstract: In a first step of a watercraft control method, a command signal to activate an automatic cruise function is received. In a second step, a target vessel velocity of a watercraft is set. In a third step, an actual vessel velocity of the watercraft is obtained. In a fourth step, a command signal is generated that is a signal to perform an automatic cruise control to control a thrust of the watercraft such that a difference between the target vessel velocity and the actual vessel velocity falls in a predetermined range of values. In a fifth step, it is determined whether or not a predetermined interruption condition has been established. In a sixth step, a command signal is generated that is a signal to perform the automatic cruise control with the thrust having a different magnitude from the thrust to be generated under normal circumstances without establishment of the interruption condition when the interruption condition has been established.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Makoto ITO, Mathias LINDEBORG, Sebastian NILSSON
  • Publication number: 20170144741
    Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods for a transformable aerial vehicle are provided. In one aspect, a transformable aerial vehicle includes: a central body and at least two transformable frames assemblies respectively disposed on the central body, each of the at least two transformable frame assemblies having a proximal portion pivotally coupled to the central body and a distal portion; an actuation assembly mounted on the central body and configured to pivot the at least two frame assemblies to a plurality of different vertical angles relative to the central body; and a plurality of propulsion units mounted on the at least two transformable frame assemblies and operable to move the transformable aerial vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2017
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Tao Wang, Tao Zhao, Hao Du, Mingxi Wang
  • Publication number: 20170144742
    Abstract: An aircraft interior fitting component system comprising an aircraft interior fitting component, a support element attached to the aircraft interior fitting component, and an aircraft primary structure component. The support element is dimensioned in such a way and is attached to the aircraft interior fitting component in such a position that, in an assembled state of the aircraft interior fitting component in an aircraft, it is supported on the aircraft primary structure component at least when a predetermined load acts on the aircraft interior fitting component along the x-axis of the aircraft in flight direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventor: Ingo Roth
  • Publication number: 20170144743
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for insulation and moisture drainage. One exemplary embodiment is an apparatus comprising a bay blanket configured to insulate an aircraft. The bay blanket includes insulation, and a first waterproof lip that protrudes from the insulation in an outboard direction towards a frame of the aircraft and extends along a length of a leftward side of the bay blanket. The bay blanket also includes a second waterproof lip that protrudes from the insulation in an outboard direction towards the frame of the aircraft along a length of a rightward side of the bay blanket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2015
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Jennifer Lynn Dickson, Jesse Vitalez Tibayan, Irina Alekseevna Zakharova, Mark L. Larson
  • Publication number: 20170144744
    Abstract: An aircraft decompression assembly, comprising a cabin lining element, an element opening and an air channel adjacent to an element rear face and connected to the opening. A channel outlet, during normal assembly operation, discharges air exiting a cabin region delimited by the element through the opening into a secluded area between the element and an aircraft outer skin. A first decompression opening has a first decompression flap, which during normal operation, closes the first decompression opening and, in the event of a rapid decompression, opens the first decompression opening equalizing a pressure between the cabin region and the secluded area. A second decompression opening in the lining element has a second decompression flap which, during normal operation, closes the second decompression opening and which, in the event of a rapid decompression, opens the second decompression opening equalizing a pressure between the cabin region and the secluded area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventor: Uwe Schneider
  • Publication number: 20170144745
    Abstract: A decompression assembly for use in an aircraft comprises a cabin lining element, an opening formed in the element, and an air channel arranged adjacent to a rear face of the element and connected to the opening. The air channel is provided with an air outlet which, during normal operation of the assembly, discharges air exiting a cabin region delimited by the element through the opening into an area located between the element and an aircraft outer skin, a first decompression opening, and a first decompression flap which, during normal operation of the decompression assembly, closes the first decompression opening in the air channel and which, in the event of a rapid decompression, opens the first decompression opening to allow a pressure equalization between the aircraft cabin region and the aircraft area located between the cabin lining element and the aircraft outer skin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventor: Uwe Schneider
  • Publication number: 20170144746
    Abstract: A mechanism for transitioning a tiltrotor aircraft between rotary and non rotary flight modes. The mechanism includes a gimbal lock positioned about a mast that is operable to selectively enable and disable a gimballing degree of freedom of a rotor assembly relative to the mast. A blade stop assembly, positioned about the mast, includes a plurality of arms having a radially contracted orientation and a radially extended orientation. A blade lock assembly is operably associated with each rotor blade assembly. Each blade lock assembly is operable to selectively enable and disable a folding degree of freedom and a pitching degree of freedom of the respective rotor blade assembly. A swash plate is operable to change the pitch of the rotor blade assemblies in the rotary flight mode and fold the rotor blade assemblies in the non rotary flight mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2017
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Applicant: Bell Helicopter Textron Inc.
    Inventors: Troy Cyril Schank, Carlos Alexander Fenny, Andrew Maresh, Chyau-Song Tzeng
  • Publication number: 20170144747
    Abstract: An adaptive flight control system for controlling the pitch of blades of a propulsive propeller of a hybrid helicopter as a function of the return value of the pitch. The adaptive flight control system comprises control means supplying the pitch control order, a piloting member controlling variation of the pitch, and piloting means applying a control gain in order to transform the control order into a setpoint, and transmitting the setpoint to the piloting member. The piloting means include information return means applying a return gain that is variable to the return value of the variation of the pitch to the piloting means, also modifying the control gain as a function of the return value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Applicant: AIRBUS HELICOPTERS
    Inventors: Jean-Romain BIHEL, Arnaud GROLL, Romuald BIEST, Zouhair SASSI
  • Publication number: 20170144748
    Abstract: Air vehicles, fly-by wire systems, and method for preemptive mitigation of turbulence are provided. An air vehicle includes a flight control surface, a sensor, and a controller. The sensor is configured to determine a velocity of an air mass that is separated from the air vehicle by a predetermined distance. The controller is communicatively coupled with the sensor and is configured to determine whether the air mass will disturb smooth flight of the air vehicle. The controller is further configured to manipulate the flight control surface in response to determining that the air mass will disturb smooth flight of the air vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2015
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventor: John R. Mayo
  • Publication number: 20170144749
    Abstract: A system comprising an aerial vehicle or an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) configured to control pitch, roll, and/or yaw via airfoils having resiliently mounted trailing edges opposed by fuselage-house deflecting actuator horns. Embodiments include one or more rudder elements which may be rotatably attached and actuated by an effector member disposed within the fuselage housing and extendible in part to engage the one or more rudder elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2017
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: TONY SHUO TAO, NATHAN OLSON, CARLOS THOMAS MIRALLES, ROBERT NICKERSON PLUMB
  • Publication number: 20170144750
    Abstract: A system, apparatus and method provide emergency differential braking for effecting braked steering of an aircraft. A brake input device is provided that not only allows for emergency and parking brake functions, but also enables differential braking. The brake input device (e.g., a parking and/or emergency brake lever, pedal, handle, etc.) can be used in a brake system including a brake system control unit (BSCU), one or more electro-mechanical actuator controllers (EMACs) and a brake assembly including one or more electrical actuators. Each EMAC is electrically coupled to one or more of the actuators so as to provide electrical power for driving the actuators. Each EMAC is also communicatively coupled to the BSCU so as to receive braking data therefrom. In an emergency, the input device sends braking signals directly to the brake actuators.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2017
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Applicant: Goodrich Corporation
    Inventor: Eric D. Cahill
  • Publication number: 20170144751
    Abstract: Disclosed is a supporting assembly and an unmanned aerial vehicle using the same, the supporting assembly includes a first base, a second base, a plurality of arms, and a damping element disposed between the first base and the second base. The second base is disposed on the first base. Each of the plurality of arms includes a proximal end and a distal end opposite to the proximal end, the proximal end is secured to the first base, and the distal end is configured for mounting a vibration source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Applicant: ZEROTECH (Shenzhen) Intelligence Robot Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Wei-Yong Yu
  • Publication number: 20170144752
    Abstract: A control method and system for controlling a main rotor of a rotorcraft to perform a stage of flight in auto-rotation. The control system has a control member for controlling the collective pitch of the blades of the main rotor. The control member is movable over an amplitude of positions between two extreme physical stops. A calculation unit calculates a collective pitch angle for the blades of the main rotor, referred to as an “auto-rotation collective pitch”. This enables the main rotor to rotate at a speed of rotation that is optimum for the stage of flight in auto-rotation of the rotorcraft. A motor means controls the position of the control member at a predetermined position, referred to as the “auto-rotation position”, in which the control member generates a control setpoint for servo-controlling the current collective pitch of the blades of the main rotor on the “auto-rotation collective pitch”.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Applicant: AIRBUS HELICOPTERS
    Inventor: Jean-Baptiste VALLART
  • Publication number: 20170144753
    Abstract: A supporting assembly for an unmanned aerial vehicle is disclosed. The supporting assembly includes a base, rotor arms, and rotor shrouds. The rotor arms extend from the base. Each of the rotor arms includes a proximal end secured to the base and a distal end opposite to the proximal end. Each of the rotor shrouds includes a converged end removably engaged with and secured to the distal end, an arc shaped end, and one or more connecting members extending from the arc shaped end to the converged end. An unmanned aerial vehicle and a rotor shroud apparatus are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Applicant: ZEROTECH (Shenzhen) Intelligence Robot Co., Ltd
    Inventor: Wei-Yong Yu
  • Publication number: 20170144754
    Abstract: Systems and methods for powering an airborne transport vehicle from a ground power supply are provided. One system is a hovercraft power system having a ground power supply coupled with at least one on-board DC-DC power converter, wherein the on-board DC-DC power converter is positioned on-board a hovercraft. The hovercraft power system further includes a power cord tethered to the hovercraft, wherein the power cord is capable of delivering at least 100 kilowatts (kW) of power from the ground power supply to the hovercraft. The hovercraft power system also includes a tether dispenser configured to dispense or retract the power cord tethered to the hovercraft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2015
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Suhat LIMVORAPUN, Randy L. BRANDT
  • Publication number: 20170144755
    Abstract: A system and method for an unmanned combat system programmed with autonomous combat capabilities. The system and method include at least one unmanned combat vehicle and a computing subsystem that includes a database, the database storing interview data about combat experiences from a plurality of vehicle operators and recorded vehicle simulator data from simulations of vehicle operations performed by the plurality of vehicle operators, the computing subsystem being configured to program the interview data and the recorded vehicle simulator data stored in the database into the at least one unmanned combat vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2015
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventor: ROBERT F. HOWARD
  • Publication number: 20170144756
    Abstract: A drone includes a plurality of rotors disposed at and around a base and operable to fly and steer the drone. At least one net launcher is disposed at the base and is operable to launch a net toward a target object. A control is responsive to a signal indicative of a detected target object, and the control, responsive to such a signal, is operable to aim the net launcher toward the target object and to launch the net toward the target object.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Mohammad Rastgaar Aagaah, Evandro M. Ficanha, Nina Mahmoudian
  • Publication number: 20170144757
    Abstract: A secure remote operation and actuation system is described herein. The system may comprise one or more unmanned aerial vehicles, a remote input receptor, and a network. In some embodiments, the unmanned aerial vehicles form a collective remote unmanned aerial vehicle. The remote input receptor may comprise a user interface for receiving user inputs from a user. The network may comprise a combination of computer systems interconnected by telecommunications equipment or cables allowing information to be exchanged. The network may also comprise a network device for obtaining the user inputs from the remote input receptor. One or more acceptable inputs may be stored on the network. In the present invention, the network device obtains the user inputs from the remote input receptor while the user is using the user interface and then the network compares the user inputs to the acceptable inputs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2017
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: David R. Hall, Mark Hall, Craig Boswell
  • Publication number: 20170144758
    Abstract: A fact checking system utilizes social networking information and analyzes and determines the factual accuracy of information and/or characterizes the information by comparing the information with source information. The social networking fact checking system automatically monitors information, processes the information, fact checks the information and/or provides a status of the information, including automatically modifying a web page to include the fact check results. The fact checking system is able to be implemented utilizing a drone device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2017
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventor: Lucas J. Myslinski
  • Publication number: 20170144759
    Abstract: Disclosed is a plug-and-play multifunctional attachment of a remote control rotorcraft, which includes: an attachment body that includes a device board and a remote control receiver unit. The device board has a top surface to which a first coupling member is mounted. The remote control receiver unit is mounted to and electrically connected to a bottom surface of the device board. Wireless transmission of a signal is enabled between a remote control device and the remote control receiver unit. A second coupling member is mounted to a bottom of an unmanned aircraft to enable selective engagement and coupling between the second coupling member and the first coupling member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2015
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventor: Chien-Kai Chiu
  • Publication number: 20170144760
    Abstract: An aircraft store ejector systems and subsystems thereof. Embodiments can include a two-reservoir re-pressurization system wherein a remote reservoir is used to maintain desired pressure in a local ejector reservoir. The system can include a release valve having a vent valve and valve piston. The release valve can control release of pressurized gas to a pitch control valve. The pitch control valve can be configured to distribute the pressurized gas between two or more ejector piston assemblies. One or more of the ejector piston assemblies can include multiple concentric piston stages and piston chambers, the piston chambers configured to contain a volume of gas. The ejector piston assemblies can be configured to compress the volume of gas within the piston chambers as the piston stages are extended out from the aircraft. Such compression can provide a return force to the piston stages.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Lee Allen Tobias, Sohrab John Talebian, Robert Ronald Evans
  • Publication number: 20170144761
    Abstract: The present invention includes pilotable capsules, detachable from an aircraft and aircrafts including such capsules. According to some embodiments, there may be provided one or more capsules capable of flight and designed to detachably connect to an aircraft. According to some embodiments, detachable capsules may be designed to carry cargo and/or passengers. According to some embodiments, detachable capsules may, after detachment, be piloted by pilots or by automated systems (unmanned) or a combination of the two.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2015
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Zigmund Bluvband, Emanuel Kushnir, Gleb Asnin
  • Publication number: 20170144762
    Abstract: The present disclosure reveals a drone deployment system for use from an airborne aircraft such that the drone deployment system is capable of moving through the aircraft, picking up a drone with a grappling means attached to an extendable arm, moving to an opening in the aircraft, extending and deploying the drone. The drone deployment system is further capable of retrieving a drone by having the extendable arm extended out the opening in the aircraft, having the drone fly into the grappling means which then engages, holding the drone, and the extendable arm is then retractable so that the opening can be closed and the drone placed in storage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2015
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Alan Retig, David J. Kreher
  • Publication number: 20170144763
    Abstract: A galley includes a cart compartment configured to receive at least one galley cart. The cart compartment is defined by a plurality of walls including a rear wall behind the cart compartment, side walls along sides of the cart compartment, a mid-wall above the cart compartment and a bottom wall below the cart compartment. Doors are coupled to the cart compartment to enclose and allow access to the cart compartment. A supply duct supplies cooled airflow to the cart compartment. The supply duct is positioned in the cart compartment forward of the rear wall and positioned in the cart compartment between the mid-wall and the bottom wall. The supply duct includes a supply device to allow airflow from an interior of the supply duct into the cart compartment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2015
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Applicant: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Thomas Joseph Moran
  • Publication number: 20170144764
    Abstract: A modular suite 10 is disclosed. Embodiments of the modular suite 10 may provide a suite base 12 to which a seat wall 14, a footrest wall 16, and a sidewall 18 (collectively, “suite walls”) may be mounted. Suite 10 may be installed within an aircraft by securing it to the aircraft passenger floor. Embodiments with suites 10 installed along fuselage walls are spaced to have a gap between the outside surface of the sidewall 18 and the inner surface of the fuselage wall (sometimes called the fuselage inner mould layer (IML)). Thus, the sidewall 18 floats relative to the fuselage frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2015
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: BRYAN D. MORAN, JONATHAN R. WIGHTMAN
  • Publication number: 20170144765
    Abstract: Provided are seat tracks comprising composite frames and methods of fabricating such seat tracks. A composite frame comprises two sets of fibers having different orientations. The first fibers may extend parallel to the principal axis of the track, while the second fibers may extend within planes perpendicular to that axis. Various characteristics of these fibers may be specifically selected such that the mechanical strength of the frame in the principal axis direction is greater than other directions. In other words, the composite frame may have anisotropic properties. This difference ensures that adequate support is provided during both normal conditions and extreme conditions. Specifically, during the normal operating conditions, most loads may be directed vertically, while at the extreme conditions most loads may be directed horizontally.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2015
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Applicant: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Khambrel A. Simpson
  • Publication number: 20170144766
    Abstract: A support bracket having a support portion, a first mounting portion, a second mounting portion, and a first support rib is provided. The first mounting portion extends from a first end of the support portion. The first mounting portion defines a mounting hole. The second mounting portion extends from a second end of the support portion. The second mounting portion has a fifth surface disposed opposite a sixth surface and a fifth side disposed opposite a sixth side. The second mounting portion defines a coupling hole. The first support rib engages a first surface of the support portion and a third surface of the first mounting portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 24, 2015
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Seth E. Rosen, Christopher Tokas
  • Publication number: 20170144767
    Abstract: A recirculation heat exchanger for use in an environmental control system of an aircraft is provided including a rectangular core having a plurality of alternately stacked first fluid layers and second fluid layers. The rectangular core has a width of about 4.750 inches (12.065 cm), and a length of about 10.6 inches (26.924 cm). A first air header is arranged adjacent a first surface of the core and a second air header is arranged adjacent a second, opposite surface of the core. The first and second air header form a portion of a flow path for a first fluid. A first fluid header is arranged adjacent a third surface and a second fluid header is arranged adjacent a fourth surface of the core. The first and second fluid header form a flow path for the second fluid having a multi-pass configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2015
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Luke J. Mayo, Brian R. Shea
  • Publication number: 20170144768
    Abstract: A cabin supply duct of an air conditioning and temperature control system including a first tubular body having an inlet, an outlet, an inner surface, an outer surface, and a longitudinal axis. The first tubular body having a bead around the circumference of the first tubular body located proximate to the outlet. A second tubular body having an inlet, an outlet, an inner surface, an outer surface, and a longitudinal axis. The inner surface of the second tubular body being fluidly connected to the inner surface of the first tubular body at the outlet of the second tubular body. The longitudinal axis of the first tubular body being perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the second tubular body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 24, 2015
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Craig M. Beers, Clarence J. Wytas
  • Publication number: 20170144769
    Abstract: A sensor supply tube assembly is provided for disposition within a compressor outlet through which a main flowpath is defined and a sensor port transversely coupled to the compressor outlet. The sensor supply tube assembly includes first and second tubes. The first tube is formed to direct main flowpath fluid from the compressor outlet and through a portion of the sensor port and includes first and second ends disposed within the sensor port and the compressor outlet, respectively, and a curved section interposed between the first and second ends. The second tube includes a sleeve tightly fittable between the first end and the sensor port and a base. The base has an exterior surface from which the sleeve extends and which is disposed and configured to non-rotatably abut with an interior surface of the compressor outlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2015
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Craig M. Beers, Christopher McAuliffe, Harold W. Hipsky
  • Publication number: 20170144770
    Abstract: A device providing a signal indicating whether a deployed aircraft evacuation slide is ready for use. A tilt sensor measures tilt angle about a predetermined axis and a tilt sensor measurement signal is provided. An inertial sensor detects acceleration and provides an inertial sensor measurement signal. A slide signal input terminal receives a slide signal indicating deployment of an evacuation slide and of a deployment length. A tilt angle signal output terminal at which a tilt angle signal is provided, and a slide status output terminal and a control unit to determine, based on the detected acceleration, a moment when the device is at rest with respect to earth and to set orientation of the reference plane to a predetermined orientation. The control unit stores data depending on position of a door, and can determine a slide length. A slide status signal is provided at the slide status output terminal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Thorsten Knijnenburg, Andreas Harzmeier, Ilja Waigl
  • Publication number: 20170144771
    Abstract: A vectored thrust control module for an aircraft that includes a servo system that couples to the aircraft structure at an output shaft connection point. A thrust motor assembly is fully supported by the servo system and rotates a bladed component to provide thrust to the aircraft. Further, the thrust motor assembly is rigidly connected with the servo system to rotate together about a longitudinal axis thrust line with respect to the aircraft structure. The bladed component and the thrust motor assembly generate a line of thrust that extends through the connection point of the servo system to the aircraft structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Trent Lukaczyk, Michael Colonno
  • Publication number: 20170144772
    Abstract: A portable storage device to contain fuel, The device is designed to be relatively light-weight to allow for movement around a fueling facility, and to be delivered to the fueling facility through the air. The device includes a number of separate tanks each configured to contain fuel. A suspension protects the tanks by absorbing external forces that could occur in the event the device is dropped during air delivery.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2017
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventor: Thomas R. Stumpf
  • Publication number: 20170144773
    Abstract: An example device includes a processor and a computer-readable medium storing instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform operations for processing non-flight performance related sensor data from a sensor of an aircraft. The operations may include receiving non-flight performance related sensor data from a sensor of an aircraft, determining a condition based upon the non-flight performance related sensor data, selecting a recommended action based upon the condition that is determined based upon the non-flight performance related sensor data, and sending the recommended action to a device of a flight crew member of the aircraft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2015
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventor: Kaveri Raman
  • Publication number: 20170144774
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for determining seatbelt status are disclosed. An example seatbelt system for a mass transit vehicle includes a first seatbelt of a first seat that includes a first buckle and a first magnetically-responsive switch to detect a first tongue when the first seatbelt is in a fastened position. The example apparatus includes a second seatbelt of a second seat that includes a second buckle and a second magnetically-responsive switch to detect a second tongue when the second seatbelt is in the fastened position. The example apparatus includes a remote monitoring unit to indicate, when the first seat is occupied, if the first seatbelt is in the fastened positioned or an unfastened position. The remote monitoring unit is to indicate, when the second seat is occupied, if the second seatbelt is in the fastened positioned or the unfastened position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2015
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Gerald Pollard, Joseph M. Fletcher
  • Publication number: 20170144775
    Abstract: A device and system for monitoring a load or applied force includes a body having first and second ends, a plate, a force-providing member connected to the plate, a first biasing member, and a first sensor. In embodiments the first biasing member is disposed between a portion of the body at or about the first end and a portion of the plate, and is configured to substantially retain the plate in an initial position during normal operation of the device; the first sensor is configured to sense a displacement (e.g., displacement position) with respect to the plate; and the body includes a portion configured to connect to or apply a force to another component. A controller may selectively instruct and/or operate a component, such as a motor, in response to an output generated or provided by the sensor. If an excessive force is sensed, the device may mitigate resulting damage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Christopher James Jezewski, Thomas James Fields, Tyler Quincey Curtis, Sorin Gavriliuc
  • Publication number: 20170144776
    Abstract: An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) storage and launch system, including: a UAV pod having an interior; and a telescoping UAV landing surface disposed in the interior of the UAV pod; where the telescoping UAV landing surface may translate up toward a top opening of the UAV pod, translate down into an interior of the UAV pod, or rotate relative to the UAV pod.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Christopher Eugene Fisher, Jason Sidharthadev Mukherjee, William Arden Lott
  • Publication number: 20170144777
    Abstract: A ground connect duct includes a ground connect flange with an inner diameter and an outer diameter, wherein the inner diameter is between 7.000 inches and 9.000 inches and the outer diameter is between 9.000 inches and 11.000 inches, a V-band flange, and a duct body with the inner diameter, wherein the duct body is coupled to the ground connect flange and the V-band flange to have an overall length between 6.261 inches and 8.261 inches and to dispose the V-band flange at an angle between 6.000 degrees and 8.000 degrees relative to the ground connect flange.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 24, 2015
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: John D. Monacchio, Clarence J. Wytas
  • Publication number: 20170144778
    Abstract: A method of monitoring usage to determine accumulated component fatigue damage includes evaluating available data for calculating an accumulated component fatigue damage for a component over a pre-determined time frame. The method includes determining at least one available method for calculating the accumulated component fatigue damage based on the available data. The method includes determining the accumulated component fatigue damage for the component using the at least one available method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Andrew Brookhart, Raymond J. Beale, JR., Matthew Harrigan
  • Publication number: 20170144779
    Abstract: A system and method are provided to automate the assembly of a wing panel, such as utilized by commercial aircraft. In the context of a system, a tacking cell is provided that is configured to tack one or more stringers to a skin plank. The system also includes a riveting cell configured to receive a tacked plank from the tacking cell and to rivet the one or more stringers to the skin plank. The system also includes a splicing cell configured to receive a plurality of riveted planks from the riveting cell and to attach one or more splice stringers to the plurality of riveted planks. Further, the system includes a side of body cell configured to receive a spliced panel from the splicing cell and to attach a side of body chord thereto to produce a wing panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2017
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Farahnaz Tanni Sisco, Daniel R. Smith, Jayson J. Aquino, Edward John Batt, James N. Buttrick, Antonio C. Micale, Darrell D. Jones, Clayton L. Munk, Chris G. Couevas, Azita N. Namdaran, Noman S. Noor, Donald A. Mottaz
  • Publication number: 20170144780
    Abstract: Systems and methods for launching space vehicles into outer space are disclosed. Method include powering a thrust augmentation stage of a launch vehicle during an initial portion of a launch trajectory to provide thrust to the launch vehicle; following the initial portion of the launch trajectory, separating a first stage of the launch vehicle from the thrust augmentation stage; powering the first stage of the launch vehicle during the initial portion and during a second portion of the launch trajectory following the initial portion of the launch trajectory to provide thrust to the launch vehicle; and controlling a controlled descent of the thrust augmentation stage to Earth following separation of the thrust augmentation stage from the first stage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventor: Michael Leslie Hand
  • Publication number: 20170144781
    Abstract: A conical scanning method and system is provided for orienting a spacecraft with respect to a source. The system includes a spacecraft and an incidence angle sensor secured to the spacecraft to sense a signal from a source. The incidence angle sensor has a boresight that is canted with respect to the principal axis. A processor communicates with actuators on the spacecraft to adjust an attitude of the spacecraft based on information received from the incidence angle sensor and to thereby align a principal axis of the spacecraft with a direction from the spacecraft to the source. The method and system can also rely on information received from source presence sensors. The source may be the Sun, or a non-solar signal source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Joseph Shoer, Leena Singh, Sungyung Lim, Timothy Henderson
  • Publication number: 20170144782
    Abstract: A filling and sealing system is provided for efficiently filling a series of individual vials with therapeutic liquids. In particular embodiments, the system includes a filling zone or station, a sealing zone or station, an unloading zone or station, and electronic controls.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Richard B. Sisken, James Thomas Jones, Charles Leland Baxter, Marc C. Buhrmester, William J. Havel, James D. Purdy, Neal E. Fearnot, Kyle D. Amick
  • Publication number: 20170144783
    Abstract: A method of filling a container with a viscous content by providing a container that has an inner surface formed by using a thermoplastic resin and, specifically, an olefin resin, applying an edible oil or a liquid paraffin on the inner surface of the container to form an oil film thereon, and filling the container that has the oil film formed on the inner surface thereof with a viscous content that has a viscosity at 25° C. of not less than 100 mPa·s.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2015
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Applicants: Toyo Seikan Co., Ltd., TOYO SEIKAN GROUP HOLDINGS, LTD.
    Inventors: Ikuo KOMATSU, Yosuke AKUTSU
  • Publication number: 20170144784
    Abstract: A method for valve-controlled filling of a defined amount of fill of a medium into a container, wherein during a filling procedure, based on a measurement signal, preferably a pulse signal, representing a flow amount, a flow rate of the medium is ascertained, and wherein based on a change of the flow rate during the filling procedure a point in time for closing a valve, which serves for filling, is corrected during the filling procedure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2015
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventor: Andreas Illi
  • Publication number: 20170144785
    Abstract: A machine for making capsules containing a product includes a forming station for forming in a sheet of thermoformable plastic material at least a casing of a capsule having a cavity, a shearing station with a punch and a die for cutting the sheet so as to separate the capsule along a respective edge, and a filling station for dosing the product into the cavity. During the cutting, the punch moves to cut the sheet with the die and then lift and detach the capsule from the sheet. The punch and the die are movable away from each other for placing the capsule on the sheet, and a through opening is created in the sheet by separating the capsule. The through opening has a passage section smaller than external dimensions of the edge to allow the sheet to support and move the capsule along an advancing direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2015
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Andrea BARTOLI, Flavio TRALDI, Alessandro GRILLENZONI
  • Publication number: 20170144786
    Abstract: A system and method for decontamination of product is described. An object to be treated, which may be a food product or a medical device, is placed in a substantially closed dielectric container with a working gas. The container is placed in an apparatus capable of producing a controlled electrical discharge so as to create reactive ion species within the package. The object to be treated may be exposed either the immediate products of the electrical discharge or the long lasting reactive ion species, or both, so as to treat the object to reduce or eliminate specific contaminants, which may be biological pathogens or the cause of product spoilage, or inorganic contaminants. The reactive ion species may result from an atmospheric non-equilibrium plasma (ANEP) formed by the apparatus and the treatment may be performed without significantly increasing the bulk temperature of the object being treated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2017
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Kevin M. Keener, Paul A. Klockow
  • Publication number: 20170144787
    Abstract: An automatic medicine packing machine is provided. The automatic medicine packing machine includes a main body provided with a hopper installed at the lower portion thereof to allow medicines to be dropped thereinto and a plurality of cassette supports installed therein, cassettes, each cassette being installed on any one of the cassette supports and provided with a medicine storage space and a medicine discharge port formed therein, and a controller configured to sense points of time of discharge of medicines from the cassettes, to detect the positions of the cassettes accommodating the corresponding medicines if one or more medicine selection signals are transmitted to the controller, and to vary timings of discharge of the medicines through the medicine discharge ports of the detected cassettes so that points of time of dropping of the medicines into the hopper may coincide with each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2016
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventor: Jun Ho KIM
  • Publication number: 20170144788
    Abstract: A sealing jaw for use with a bagging apparatus including a removable jaw having a guide/retention member selectively releasable from a jaw holder. The jaw holder including a modular retainer assembly having a release member movable between a first position for securing the guide/retention member therewith, and a second position for releasing the guide/retention member therefrom. Selective release of the guide/retention member from the jaw holder is achieved without tools.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2017
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Inventors: Thomas M. ZUREWICH, Peter D. YOHE
  • Publication number: 20170144789
    Abstract: An apparatus for sealing or tying products includes a housing with a first tape dispenser comprising adhesive tape and binding means for binding tape from the a dispenser around a product or a bundle of products, At least one supply device is provided for supplying items to be connected, to the product or bundle of products. The binding means comprises a cell and an urging device for urging part of the product or bundle of products into the cell, especially towards a closed side of the cell. The urging device comprises a holding provision for holding an item provided by the supply device, such that when the urging device is operated for urging the product or bundle of products into the cell the item is urged against the product or bundle of products, preferably prior to binding the tape around the product or bundle of products in the cell.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2015
    Publication date: May 25, 2017
    Applicant: DuoSeal Automatics B.V.
    Inventor: Guido Maurinus Adriana Maria AARTS