Patents Issued in December 13, 2018
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Publication number: 20180354614Abstract: A vertical take-off and landing aircraft according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes: a pair of ducted fans; a fuselage that is disposed at a lower position than the ducted fans; a frame body that connects the fuselage and the ducted fans; and a stabilizer fin that is disposed at a position at which the stabilizer fin does not obstruct airflows from the ducted fans, which is a position that is lower than an airframe center of gravity and which is rearward of the fuselage.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 22, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Applicant: IHI CorporationInventors: Masayoshi TUNEKAWA, Tetsuya TAMURA, Masao HASEGAWA
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Publication number: 20180354615Abstract: An aircraft having a vertical takeoff and landing fight mode and a forward flight mode. The aircraft includes a fuselage and an X-tiltwing that is rotatable relative to the fuselage between a vertical lift orientation and a forward thrust orientation. The X-tiltwing has oppositely disposed V-wing members each having first and second wing sections. In the vertical lift orientation, the first and second wing sections of each V-wing member are generally in the same horizontal plane. In the forward thrust orientation, the first and second wing sections of each V-wing member are generally in the same vertical plane. A distributed propulsion system is attached to the X-tiltwing such that a plurality of propulsion assemblies is attached to each wing section. A flight control system is operably associated with the distributed propulsion system to independently control each of the propulsion assemblies.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 12, 2017Publication date: December 13, 2018Applicant: Bell Helicopter Textron Inc.Inventors: Kirk Landon Groninga, Daniel Bryan Robertson
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Publication number: 20180354616Abstract: In a first aspect, there is a rotor system for a tiltrotor aircraft, the rotor system including an upper outboard engine in a fixed location on a wing member of the tiltrotor aircraft; a lower outboard engine in a fixed location on the wing member; and a prop-rotor pylon in power communication with the upper and lower outboard engines, the prop-rotor pylon being configured to selectively rotate between a vertical position and a horizontal position. In another aspect, there is provided a tiltrotor aircraft including a fuselage; a wing member; an upper outboard engine in a fixed location on the wing member; a lower outboard engine in a fixed location on the wing member; and a prop-rotor pylon in power communication with the upper and lower outboard engines, the prop-rotor pylon being configured to selectively rotate between a vertical position and a horizontal position.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 13, 2017Publication date: December 13, 2018Applicant: Bell Helicopter Textron Inc.Inventors: Kirk L. Groninga, Daniel B. Robertson
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Publication number: 20180354617Abstract: An aircraft for vertical take-off and landing includes an aircraft frame having an open frame portion, at least one vertical thruster, a pod, separable from the aircraft and including a cabin to contain at least one of cargo and passengers, where the pod, when mounted to the aircraft, defines at least a portion of the aircraft frame, and a mounting system including at least one attachment member configured to attach the pod to the open frame portion. Such aircraft is capable of flight with and without the pod.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 2, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: SERGEY V. FROLOV, MICHAEL CYRUS, JOHN PETER MOUSSOURIS
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Publication number: 20180354618Abstract: Active tethers for controlling UAV flight volumes, and associated methods and systems, are disclosed. A method in accordance with a representative embodiment includes directing a UAV upwardly from a launch site, receiving an indication of a UAV failure or upcoming failure while the UAV is aloft, and in response to the indication, applying an acceleration to the UAV via a tether attached to the UAV.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 12, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Nathan Schuett, Asa Hammond
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Publication number: 20180354619Abstract: An Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) has a fuselage, a rotor system, and a wing configured for selective positioning during flight of the UAV to a fully deployed position, a fully stowed position, and to positions between the fully deployed position and the fully stowed position.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 12, 2017Publication date: December 13, 2018Applicant: Bell Helicopter Textron Inc.Inventors: Levi Charles Hefner, Danielle Lynn Moore, Andrea Chavez, Kirk Landon Groninga, John Lloyd, Daniel Bryan Robertson
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Publication number: 20180354620Abstract: An unmanned aerial vehicle is provided. The unmanned aerial vehicle includes a housing with a first housing structure and a second housing structure, a wireless communication circuit coupled to the housing or located inside the housing for wireless communication with an external controller, a plurality of propulsions systems coupled to the housing, and a navigation circuit configured to control the plurality of propulsion systems. At least one of the plurality of propulsion systems includes a plurality of folding arms pivotally coupled to one of the first housing structure and the second housing structure, a motor controlled by the navigation circuit, and a propeller coupled to the motor. The housing has at least one recess to accommodate at least part of the plurality of propulsion systems in the second state.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 7, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Seung-Chul BAEK, Sang-In BAEK, Min-Sung LEE, Jong-Chul CHOI
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Publication number: 20180354621Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide an apparatus comprising a body including a cavity for storing one or more packages, and a conveyor belt disposed above a top surface of the body. The belt is shaped to receive one or more packages, and the belt is controllable to rotate a package placed on the belt either from the top surface to the cavity for storage or from the cavity to the top surface for dispatch. A package comprises at least one of a drone and a payload transported by the drone. The apparatus further comprises a landing mechanism for stabilizing a drone landing on the apparatus.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 27, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Jeanette L. Blomberg, Eric K. Butler, Anca A. Chandra, Pawan R. Chowdhary, Thomas D. Griffin, Divyesh Jadav, Sunhwan Lee, Robert J. Moore, Hovey R. Strong, Jr.
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Publication number: 20180354622Abstract: A multirotor aircraft and a method for controlling the multirotor aircraft are disclosed. The multirotor aircraft comprises a body and a H-shaped frame, wherein, the body is mounted with a bearing, a first person view camera and a servo mechanism, the end of each arm of the H-shaped frame far away from a lateral shaft thereof is mounted with an actuator assembly, the lateral shaft of the H-shaped frame is connected with the body by the bearing, and the servo mechanism is coupled with the lateral shaft of the H-shaped frame and is configured to control the rotation of the lateral shaft of the H-shaped frame, in order to control the angle between the body and the H-shaped frame. The method comprises a first mode and a second mode, wherein in the first mode, keeping the horizon within the camera view of the aircraft; and in the second mode, generating control command on the basis of the camera aligned axis.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 31, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Thomas RAFFLER, Jian WANG
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Publication number: 20180354623Abstract: The present disclosure provides a multi-rotor Aerial Vehicle comprising at least five arms. Pairs of coaxial contra rotating rotors/propellers are configured on each arm defining a polygon. In the event of failure of any one of the rotors/propellers, a control system incorporating an autopilot, shuts off corresponding contra rotating rotor/propeller of the pair to maintain yaw stability thereby rendering the corresponding arm non-functional; and adjusts throttles of the coaxial contra rotating rotors/propellers of remaining functional arms to maintain tilt and lift stability of the Aerial Vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 7, 2016Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventor: Ashish BHAT
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Publication number: 20180354624Abstract: The present invention is a drone for spraying liquid such as pesticides, fungicides, herbicides, plant growth regulators, plant defoliators, and fertilizers over field crop.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 8, 2017Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventor: Yongbiao Liu
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Publication number: 20180354625Abstract: An adaptive aerial vehicle includes a vehicle support, at least one frame assembly mounted relative to the support, at least one propulsion unit mounted to the frame assembly and operable to move the adaptive aerial vehicle, and an actuator configured to move the support relative to the frame assembly to redistribute the weight of the adaptive aerial vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 12, 2017Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventor: David A. Verkade
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Publication number: 20180354626Abstract: An environmental control system of an aircraft includes a heat exchanger configured to cool an airstream and a water extractor arranged in fluid communication with an outlet of the heat exchanger. The water extractor includes a separation mechanism for separating the airstream into a first airstream and a second airstream. The first airstream has water droplets entrained therein. A flow path of the airstream within the separation mechanism includes an angle. The separation mechanism includes a water extractor vessel axially aligned and in fluid communication with the separation mechanism. The water extractor vessel includes a first portion for receiving the first airstream and a second portion for receiving the second airstream. The first portion is configured to collect and remove water droplets from the first airstream.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 8, 2017Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventor: Richard A. Himmelmann
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Publication number: 20180354627Abstract: A shroud for a J-tube of an air conditioning pack of an aircraft includes a first partial shroud piece and a second partial shroud piece that mate together to form a flow tube and a sleeve. The flow tube includes an inlet, an outlet fluidly connected to the inlet and disposed on an opposite end of the flow tube from the inlet, and a sidewall extending between the inlet and the outlet. The sleeve extends through a portion of the flow tube and out of the sidewall and is configured to contain a portion of the J-tube.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 12, 2017Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Donald E. Army, Christopher McAuliffe
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Publication number: 20180354628Abstract: A system for mixing and distributing air in an aircraft cabin, comprising: a first, internal air supply line, a second air supply line at least partially surrounding the internal air supply line, and a mixed air distribution system for mixing the air supplied from the air supply lines and for distributing the mixed air. The mixed air distribution system comprises a plurality of outlet lines for the outlet of mixed air into the aircraft cabin. The two air supply lines comprise outlets which, in each case, discharge into the mixed air distribution system. The two air supply lines are thermally coupled, and the main directions of extent of the air supply lines and of the mixed air distribution system are oriented substantially parallel or collinear to one another.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 4, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventor: Jens Lohmar
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Publication number: 20180354629Abstract: An aircraft engine system configured with a high pressure stage turbocharger assembly and a supplemental stage turbocharger assembly disposed in series with respect to said high pressure stage turbocharger, wherein the supplemental stage turbocharger assembly provides a compressor unit of the high pressure stage turbocharger with substantially constant critical altitude pressure input.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 25, 2016Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Yehuda Fass, Jacob Feldman
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Publication number: 20180354630Abstract: Methods for balancing aircraft turbofan engines using an artificial neural network and a global optimization algorithm, which are configured as a loop in which: the global optimization algorithm inputs to the artificial neural network data representing proposed changes in the balance weight attached to the engine; the artificial neural network outputs data estimating changes in engine vibration in response to input of the data representing the proposed changes in balance weight; and the global optimization algorithm outputs an optimum influence coefficient calculated using a minimum predicted change in engine vibration. This process can be repeated multiple times to derive a multiplicity of optimum influence coefficients which are used to determine an optimal balance solution for the engine. The balance weights attached to the engine are then reconfigured in accordance with the optimal balance solution.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 7, 2017Publication date: December 13, 2018Applicant: The Boeing CompanyInventor: Omid B. Nakhjavani
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Publication number: 20180354631Abstract: A hybrid-electric propulsion system for an aircraft includes a turbomachine, the turbomachine including a first spool and a second spool. A method for operating the hybrid electric propulsion system includes operating, by one or more computing devices, the turbomachine such that the first spool mechanically drives a prime propulsor of the hybrid-electric propulsion system; and modifying, by the one or more computing devices, a speed relationship parameter defined between the first spool and second spool by providing electrical power to, or drawing electrical power from, an electric machine mechanically coupled to the first spool, the second spool, or both.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 8, 2017Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Sridhar Adibhatla, Robert Charles Hon, Michael Thomas Gansler
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Publication number: 20180354632Abstract: A hybrid-electric propulsion system for an aircraft includes a propulsor and a turbomachine. The turbomachine includes a high pressure turbine drivingly coupled to a high pressure compressor through a high pressure spool. The hybrid electric propulsion system further includes an electrical system including a first electric machine, a second electric machine, and an electric energy storage unit electrically connectable to the first and second electric machines. The first electric machine is coupled to the high pressure spool of the turbomachine and the second electric machine is coupled to the propulsor for driving the propulsor to provide a propulsive benefit for the aircraft. The hybrid electric propulsion system also includes a controller configured to provide electrical power from an electric power source to the first electric machine to drive the first electric machine to start, or assist with starting, the turbomachine.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 12, 2017Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Robert Charles Hon, Michael Thomas Gansler
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Publication number: 20180354633Abstract: A method for supplying power to an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) includes converting heat generated by at least one energy component of the UAV into electrical power and supplying the electrical power to the UAV based on a flying status of the UAV and/or a discharge status of a power battery of the UAV. The power battery is a main power source of the UAV.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 6, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Wentao WANG, Lei ZHANG, Lei WANG, Bogao XU
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Publication number: 20180354634Abstract: An airplane propelled by a turbine engine having at least one fan, the turbine engine being integrated in the rear of a fuselage of the airplane, extending it rearwards, the airplane further including at least one acoustic baffle forming panel connected to the fuselage of the airplane and arranged below the turbine engine.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 21, 2016Publication date: December 13, 2018Applicant: SAFRAN AIRCRAFT ENGINESInventors: Norman Bruno Andre JODET, Jeremy Paul Francisco GONZALEZ, Herve ROLLAND
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Publication number: 20180354635Abstract: A hybrid electric propulsion system includes a gas turbine engine and an electric machine coupled to the gas turbine engine. A method for operating the propulsion system includes determining, by one or more computing devices, a baseline power output for the gas turbine engine; operating, by the one or more computing devices, the gas turbine engine to provide the baseline power output; determining, by the one or more computing devices, a desired power output greater than or less than the baseline power output; and providing, by the one or more computing devices, power to, or extracting, by the one or more computing devices, power from, the gas turbine engine using the electric machine such that an effective power output of the gas turbine engine matches the determined desired power output.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 9, 2017Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Nicholas Adam Wagner, Daniel E. Bergsten, David Allen Gutz
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Publication number: 20180354636Abstract: An aircraft control system and method to optimize aircraft control based on noise abatement volumes. A noise abatement component computes optimal flight and engine control based on a line-of-sight distance to minimize direct operating cost (DOC) while complying with community noise regulations.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 7, 2017Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Mark Darnell, David Lax, Brandon James Rhone
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Publication number: 20180354637Abstract: An exemplary boundary layer ingestion engine includes a gas generator, a turbine fluidly connected to the gas generator, and a fan mechanically linked to the turbine via at least one shaft. The linkage is configured such that rotation of the turbine is translated to the fan. The boundary layer ingestion engine further includes an exhaust duct fluidly connected to an outlet of the turbine. The exhaust duct is positioned radially inward of the fan.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 12, 2017Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Gabriel L. Suciu, Jesse M. Chandler, Wesley K. Lord
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Publication number: 20180354638Abstract: The invention relates to a turbomachine (24) of the «open rotor» type or a turboprop engine comprising a nacelle (26) defining an air inlet (28), a central hub (30) and an annular air intake section (32) surrounding the central hub (30) and opening into a air supply main section (34), with the central hub (30) comprising a central trap (36) having an aperture (38) for trapping the foreign objects in an air flow entering the turbomachine (24), and an air recovery channel (48) having a discharge end (48a), through which said air recovery channel (48) opens into the main section (34), provided on the central hub (30).Type: ApplicationFiled: November 25, 2016Publication date: December 13, 2018Applicant: Safran Aircraft EnginesInventors: Romain Jean-Claude Ferrier, Romeo Brogna, Jackie Raymond Julien Prouteau, Nicolas Joseph Sirvin
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Publication number: 20180354639Abstract: A device for a variable and adaptable diverterless bump engine inlet of an aircraft comprises a flexible inlet, a mechanism to change the shape of the flexible inlet, and a processing unit to control the mechanism. The flexible inlet of the device includes a plurality of edges attached partly to a fuselage skin and partly to an engine inlet duct. With this device, the shape of the flexible inlet can be controlled according to the flight conditions, and hence the engine air intake will perform more efficient at all speeds while fulfilling requirements for less radar visibility.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 30, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventor: Thomas BERENS
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Publication number: 20180354640Abstract: An exhaust arrangement is for an aircraft having sensing equipment and a front prop engine. An extension mounts on the underside along an edge of the fuselage to direct exhaust from the engine's exhaust pipes to a point to or past the sensing equipment typically exposed at the mid-section of the aircraft. An extension inlet mounts adjacent the pipe and defines a funnel or conical orifice not directly affixed to the pipe. One or more conductors for the extension then extend from the inlet to convey the exhaust to an outlet of the extension. Preferably, multiple conductors can be used with an expansion joint provided between them. The outlet preferably diverts exhaust away from the tail end of the aircraft. To mount the extension to the aircraft, several arrangements of supports including rods, lugs, angles, and the like hold the extension in vertical, lateral, and axial directions to the aircraft.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 27, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Craig S. McGee, Sam R. Fritcher
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Publication number: 20180354641Abstract: According to some embodiments, system and methods are provided, comprising receiving one or more mission objectives for an aircraft mission, and condition data at a mission execution module; generating, via the mission execution module, a mission plan executable to address at least one of the one or more mission objectives via manipulation of a power-thermal management system (PTMS); receiving the generated mission plan at the PTMS directly from the mission execution module; and automatically executing the generated mission plan to operate an aircraft. Numerous other aspects are provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 1, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Hendrik Pieter Jacobus de BOCK, Matthew Robert CERNY, Gary QUACKENBUSH, Eric WESTERVELT, William GERSTLER
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Publication number: 20180354642Abstract: A fuel tank inerting system for an aircraft, the system comprises a catalytic heat exchanger comprising a first flow path and a second flow path for heat exchange with the first flow path. The system further comprises a first inlet arranged upstream of the first flow path of the catalytic heat exchanger for providing a mixture of fuel vapour and oxygen to the first flow path for sustaining a catalysed reaction, and a second inlet arranged upstream of the second flow path for providing a flow of fuel to the second flow path of the catalytic heat exchanger for exchanging heat with the first flow path.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 13, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Paul Phillips, Berwyn Pollard
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Publication number: 20180354643Abstract: A fuel tank inerting system for an aircraft, the system comprising: a fuel tank, and a catalytic heat exchanger. The catalytic heat exchanger comprises a first flow path and a second flow path for heat exchange with the first flow path, as well as a first inlet arranged upstream of the first flow path of the catalytic heat exchanger for providing a mixture of fuel vapour and oxygen to the first flow path for sustaining a catalysed reaction, and a second inlet arranged upstream of the second flow path for providing a flow of fuel from the fuel tank to the second flow path of the catalytic heat exchanger for exchanging heat with the first flow path. The system further comprises a transfer pipe in heat exchange with the fuel tank, wherein the transfer pipe is arranged to receive fuel from the second flow path of the catalytic heat exchanger.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 13, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Berwyn Pollard, Paul Phillips
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Publication number: 20180354644Abstract: A catalytic inerting system (CIS) architecture includes a fuel tank including a fuel tank inlet and a fuel tank outlet, the fuel tank defining a space for containing a liquid fuel and an ullage space above the liquid fuel containing an ullage gas. A catalytic reactor is in fluid communication with the fuel tank, the catalytic reactor having a catalytic inlet and a catalytic outlet, wherein the catalytic reactor receives an ullage gas flow from the fuel tank outlet and performs a catalytic reaction on the ullage gas to produce a more inert flow from the catalytic outlet to the fuel tank inlet. A bypass line provides a flow pathway between the fuel tank inlet and the fuel tank outlet, thereby bypassing the fuel tank, and a flow control mechanism controls relative flows of the inert flow from the catalytic outlet to the fuel tank inlet versus through the bypass line.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 26, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Daniel Christopher Massie, Bryan David Jensen, Gustavo Toriz
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Publication number: 20180354645Abstract: A combined controller with a panel that has a face and a back, a case attached to the back of the panel. The face of the panel includes a plurality of first primary flight display inputs configured to receive physical inputs for the control of a first primary flight display; a plurality of second primary flight display inputs configured to receive physical inputs for the control of a second primary flight display; and a plurality of flight control inputs configured to receive physical inputs for the control of automated flight behavior.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 8, 2017Publication date: December 13, 2018Applicant: Bell Helicopter Textron Inc.Inventors: Joe Leachman, Thomas B. Priest
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Publication number: 20180354646Abstract: A method for balancing an aircraft turbofan engine using a respective artificial neural network for each flight of multiple reference aircraft to predict the engine vibrations that would be produced in response to input of flight parameter and balance weight data acquired from a flight of a test aircraft of the same type. The resulting sets of predicted vibrations are then processed to identify and collect those engine vibration predictions which match or nearly match the engine vibration measurements acquired from the test aircraft during its flight test. For each matching modeled flight of the reference aircraft, the magnitude and phase angle of the mass vector for any commonly used balance weight configurations are determined and included in a list of recommended balance weight configurations. A technician can then reconfigure the balance weights attached to the engine on the test aircraft in accordance with a selected recommendation.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 8, 2017Publication date: December 13, 2018Applicant: The Boeing CompanyInventor: Omid B. Nakhjavani
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Publication number: 20180354647Abstract: Techniques for employing a smart sensor device (102) that has a primary sensing function for sensing a state of a physical component and can concurrently enable one or more backup functions for sensing one or more states of one or more other physicals components in response to one or more other smart sensor devices (102 and/or 116) not being able to perform their primary function of sensing and/or reporting on the one or more states of the one or more other physical components.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 4, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Timothy Robert NORTH, Tod Alexander GILBERT, Steven BONNETT
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Publication number: 20180354648Abstract: In response to determining that a panic situation exists, an aircraft panic component can at least partially disable various systems of an aircraft, such as a navigation system (e.g., flight plans), an operational system (e.g., aircraft controls), or other suitable systems. For example, elements of a navigation and/or operational system of the aircraft may be disabled to disable local (e.g., pilot or cockpit) control of those system and/or to at least partially disable local operational systems of the aircraft (e.g., hydraulic or pneumatic flight control mechanisms, etc.). The navigation system can be updated with a new flight plan and the aircraft can have its autopilot engaged to pilot the aircraft according to the new flight plan such as to direct the aircraft to a certain altitude and/or heading. A remote terminal can be notified of the panic situation and control of the navigation system and/or operational systems can be turned over, potentially exclusively, to the remote terminal.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 6, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: David J. Akers, Gregory P. Temel
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Publication number: 20180354649Abstract: A system for use in the secure recovery, management and storage of a drone can include a housing, at least one electromechanically operated door securing access to the housing and a retractable platform that can electromechanically extend from inside the housing to an area outside the housing when the at least one electromechanically operated door is opened. The retractable platform can serve as a landing pad for a drone and/or as a base onto which a drone can be received. The retractable platform can electromechanically move back into the housing and the door can close after receiving the drone. Communications components, alarms and cameras can also be associated with the housing to facilitate its operation for drone recovery, storage and security.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 8, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Luis M. Ortiz, Kermit D. Lopez
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Publication number: 20180354650Abstract: The present invention provides an improved method and apparatus for automatically aligning and connecting a passenger boarding bridge (PBB) with the passenger door of an aircraft or other vessel. A sensory suite module includes cameras and sensors to scan the apron for obstacles and identify an aircraft based on external features. The sensory suite module also includes one or more high-precision active laser line profilers to detect the vertical and lower edges of an aircraft door. A controller module provides precise control and movement of the distal end of the PBB and guides the distal end of the PBB to the passenger door. The system can be activated by a remote triggering panel module.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 15, 2016Publication date: December 13, 2018Applicant: SINGAPORE TECHNOLOGIES DYNAMICS PTE LTDInventors: Hong Soon TAN, Chee Hwee TOH, Han Leong TAN
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Publication number: 20180354651Abstract: A method for masking an aeronautical structure with a frisket before painting such aeronautical structure, including the steps of: providing the aeronautical structure comprising at least one hole; providing the frisket; providing at least one jamming element, wherein said jamming element is configured to be inserted into the at least one hole; providing at least one C-shaped jamming element configured to be placed on a lateral of the first section; arranging the frisket partially over the at least one hole; inserting the at least one jamming element into the at least one hole, partially holding the frisket; wrapping the first section of the aeronautical structure with the frisket, said first section being masked to avoid its painting; and placing the at least one C-shaped jamming element laterally embracing the first section with the frisket, the frisket being clamped against said first section.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 8, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Carlos GARCIA NIETO, Jaime CABRERA VALOR, Rosario MOLINA MORENO, Sergio HERNANDEZ SANMARTIN, MarÃa Pilar GUILLÉN MORENO, Fernando ALVAREZ ALVAREZ
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Publication number: 20180354652Abstract: A refueling hose tool kit for repairing or replacing air refueling hose end fittings may include a collapsible work stand configured to secure the hose end fitting when in a deployed extended orientation; a removal adapter ring; a hydraulically powered assembly clamp fixture; a hydraulically powered insert removal tool fixture; a wrench; a hydraulic pump; and a ruggedized case configured to receive the work stand, removal adapter ring, clamp fixture, insert removal tool fixture, wrench and hydraulic pump for storage and transport.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 6, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Applicant: Carleton Life Support Systems, Inc.Inventors: Don Dowd, Joe Beitelspacher, Brent Meeker, Lee Brandt, Max Gehl
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Publication number: 20180354653Abstract: Processes for repairing an aircraft. The processes utilize a portable electronic device for entry of data associated with a defect including photographs of the defect. A particular repair process is selected based upon information associated with the defect, as well as information associated with materials needed for repairing the defect. A record of defects associated with a particular aircraft may be stored in a database. To repair the defect, the database may be accessed and a particular defect record may be selected. The particular repair process is displayed, allowing the defect to be repaired. The defect record may be stored after the particular defect is repaired to allow for access to data associated with same.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 7, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Mika Sachse, Juergen Neumann
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Publication number: 20180354654Abstract: A method and apparatus for supporting a structure. The apparatus may comprise a support, a load-balancing structure associated with the support, and a set of connection devices associated with the load-balancing structure. The set of connection devices may be configured to connect to the structure to form a set of control points. Each of the set of connection devices may be configured to independently control a location of a corresponding control point in the set of control points.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 24, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Matthew Ray DesJardien, Eric M. Reid, Steven A. Best, Jaeeun Shin
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Publication number: 20180354655Abstract: A fixture is provided for securing an annular drone module to a test stand. The fixture includes a rear outside annulus, a front inside annulus, a plurality of tabs, and a plurality of flanges. The rear outside annulus extend radially to an outer rim and longitudinally from an aft surface and a lip surface. The front inside annulus extends radially to a mezzanine rim and longitudinally from the lip surface to a fore surface. The tabs extending radially from the mezzanine rim on the front inside annulus. The plurality of flanges extending from the outer rim on the rear outside annulus. The drone module is disposed facing the lip surface between the tabs and the mezzanine rim by first mechanical fasteners, and the flanges mount to the test stand by second mechanical fasteners, such as screws. The fixture can be a unitary construction and be composed of thermoset plastic.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 8, 2017Publication date: December 13, 2018Applicant: United States of America, as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventors: Troy S. Newhart, Joshua D. Taylor, Jonathan U. Crook, John W. Gawalt, Jordan C. Lieberman, Jessica L. Hildebrand, Charles T. Miller
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Publication number: 20180354656Abstract: A case structure forms a storage space for a first electronic component. The case structure includes a plurality of support posts that are disposed parallel to each other; and a plurality of panels that is provided among the plurality of support posts, the plurality of panels constituting outer walls. At least one panel of the plurality of panels is a panel having an outer surface on which a second electronic component provided, the second electronic component being connected with the first electronic component, and the plurality of panels is attached to the plurality of support posts in a detachable manner along a longitudinal direction of the plurality of support posts.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 21, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Tsumori SATO, Ren MATSUZAWA
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Publication number: 20180354657Abstract: A method for solar array (28a, 28b) deployment includes deploying a first portion of solar cells of a solar array responsive to a first drag condition, charging a battery (26) with the first portion of solar cells, activating an electric thruster (24) at a first power level using the first portion of solar cells, deploying a second portion of solar cells of the solar array responsive to a second drag condition that is lower than the first drag condition, and activating the electric thruster at a second power level that is higher than the first power level using the first portion of solar cells and the second portion of solar cells.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 14, 2016Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Kevin Kelleher, Dennis Morris, Rodney Noble
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Publication number: 20180354658Abstract: A propulsion system for small artificial satellites comprises a plurality of engines (2) fixable to a frame (101) of a satellite (100); a control unit (3) connected functionally to the engines (2) for sending at least one activation signal (AS) for activating at least one engine (2); the system is selectively configurable at least between a first configuration in which at least one of the engines (2) is activated for correcting the orbit of the satellite (100) and a second configuration in which at least one of the engines (2) is activated for dispersing said satellite (100) relative to another adjacent satellite.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 25, 2016Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Luca ROSSETTINI, Goncalo Daniel ALBANO LOPES
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Publication number: 20180354659Abstract: A first spacecraft and a second spacecraft are configured to be disposed together, in a launch configuration, for launch by a single launch vehicle. In the launch configuration, the first spacecraft is mechanically coupled with a primary payload adapter of the launch vehicle, and the second spacecraft is mechanically coupled with the first spacecraft by way of an inter-spacecraft coupling arrangement. The spacecraft are configured to be deployed, following injection into a first orbit by the launch vehicle, by separating the first spacecraft from the primary payload adapter while the second spacecraft is mechanically coupled with the first spacecraft. A first onboard propulsion subsystem of the first spacecraft includes one or more thrusters configured to execute an orbit transfer maneuver from the first orbit to a second orbit. A propellant line arrangement detachably couples the first onboard propulsion subsystem with a second propellant storage arrangement on the second spacecraft.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 7, 2017Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Jeff Aaron Baldwin, Jonathan Noland, Alfred Heikal Tadros, Jeffrey Donald Stoen, Adam Maher
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Publication number: 20180354660Abstract: This solar panel (12) includes a structure (14) and at least two photovoltaic cells (16A, 16B) each defining a lateral contact face (30A, 30B) and including a base element (20A, 20B), a grid of electric conductors (24A, 24B) and a protective element (22A, 22B) made from transparent material, the grid (24A, 24B) including at least one conductive wire extending along the lateral contact face (30A, 30B). The cells (16A, 16B) are arranged on the structure (14) such that at least part of each of the lateral contact faces (30A, 30B) is arranged across from the other part. The solar panel (12) further includes a barrier (18A) made from dielectric material arranged on the structure (14) between the lateral contact faces and extending along the opposite parts of these faces (30A, 30B).Type: ApplicationFiled: June 4, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventor: Denis PAYAN
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Publication number: 20180354661Abstract: Provided is a bag making and packaging machine capable of accurately detecting, with a simple configuration, the timing at which an article that is dropped and supplied from an article supply device disposed above the bag making and packaging machine, will arrive at a lateral sealing mechanism. A bag making and packaging machine receives articles dropped and supplied from a combination weighing machine disposed above the bag making and packaging machine and packages the articles in a bag to be made. The bag making and packaging machine includes a lateral sealing mechanism, a servo motor, and a falling time detector. The lateral sealing mechanism laterally seals a packaging material of a cylindrical shape. The servo motor drives the lateral sealing mechanism.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 3, 2016Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventors: Shinji KOIKE, Ryoichi SATO, Ryo SASAKI
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Publication number: 20180354662Abstract: A manifold for control of fluid and/or vapor flow between a container and a pump cartridge for a compounder system is provided. One or more manifolds may be disposed in a magazine configured to secure and align the manifolds with a plurality of ports in the cartridge. Each manifold may include a needle having forward and rear openings to a central bore. A needle housing may include a slot configured to receive a push rod for actuating the needle forward and backward. In a forward, engaged position, the openings in the needle may be disposed on opposite sides of a sealing member of the manifold to form a fluid pathway through the manifold. In a rearward, disengaged position, both the forward and rear openings in the needle may be disposed on the same side of the sealing member to prevent fluid and vapor from flowing through the manifold.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 29, 2016Publication date: December 13, 2018Applicant: CareFusion 303, Inc.Inventors: Ray FEITH, Vincent Fuji WANG, Neil QUITOVIERA, George Michel MANSOUR, Christopher J. ZOLLINGER, Matthew QUACH
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Publication number: 20180354663Abstract: Process for packaging sticky substances in the molten state, in which the sticky substance is cast in a tray-mould lined be-forehand with a film of non-sticky plastic material and compatible in the fluid state with the sticky substance, including, among other, the phase of lining the internal walls of the tray-moulds with a first thin and easily formable film of the non-sticky plastic material, causing it to perfectly adhere to the walls of the mould by connecting the lower external part of the moulds connection to a vacuum source, in which the degree of vacuum during the opening transient of the connection is modulated.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 6, 2016Publication date: December 13, 2018Inventor: Giorgio Rizzieri