Patents Issued in January 9, 2020
  • Publication number: 20200010137
    Abstract: To provide a rider recognition device for a human-powered vehicle and a control system of a human-powered vehicle that improve the usability, a rider recognition device for a human-powered vehicle includes a detector and an artificial intelligence processing unit. The detector detects state information while the human-powered vehicle is traveling. The state information is related to at least one of a state of the human-powered vehicle and a state of a rider of the human-powered vehicle. The artificial intelligence processing unit recognizes the rider corresponding to the state information detected by the detector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 4, 2019
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Inventor: Takashi Komemushi
  • Publication number: 20200010138
    Abstract: An information processing device includes an input device and an artificial intelligence processor. First information related to a human-powered vehicle is input to the input device. The artificial intelligence processor is configured to generate second information related to at least one of deterioration, wear, and failure of an element of the human-powered vehicle from history information of the first information input to the input device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 4, 2019
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Inventors: Taihei Nishihara, Takeshi Kuroiwa, Kazuhiro Takeda, Tsuyoshi Miyake, Takashi Komemushi
  • Publication number: 20200010139
    Abstract: An operation unit structure of the embodiment includes a switch case disposed close to a grip part of a handlebar of a straddle-type vehicle, an operating element provided in the switch case, and indicators and provided in the switch case common to the operating element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2019
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Inventors: Sekai Yamazaki, Jun Yoneda
  • Publication number: 20200010140
    Abstract: A bicycle frame joint accommodating internal cabling is shown and described. The joint includes an internal passage joining at least two frame tube receiving sockets. The internal passage can receive cables and lighting strips, enabling a circuit or lighting strip to extend along a plurality of frame tubes, and to pass through joints between adjacent frame tubes, to promote circuit continuity. Some bicycle frame joints may have internal passages bypassing some sockets, enabling a continuous circuit to bypass an intervening frame tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2018
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Inventor: Wayne Gerard Poole
  • Publication number: 20200010141
    Abstract: This disclosure relates to a system for balancing a bicycle. The system can comprise a frame, a tension system, and a steering system. The frame can be capable of mounting to a bicycle. The tension system can be capable of connecting with handlebars of the bicycle. The steering system can be mounted to the frame, further the steering system can be in communication with the tension system such that manually maneuvering the steering system can adjust tension within the tension system to steer the bicycle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 4, 2018
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Inventor: Chad Wilson
  • Publication number: 20200010142
    Abstract: A brake system for a vehicle such as a bicycle is disclosed. The brake system may comprise an improved master cylinder assembly configured for adjustment (such as adjustment of the stroke length, stroke start, etc.). The brake system may comprise a caliper assembly with an improved arrangement of flow paths configured to facilitate maintenance (such as to remove/bleed air and/or fluid from the body of the caliper assembly, inspection, etc.); the caliper assembly may also be configured for use with a tool (e.g. configured to fit in body to remove/bleed air and/or fluid from flow paths during maintenance). The master cylinder assembly may be configured (e.g. manufactured/produced, assembled, etc.) so that a setting and/or adjustment of the brake stroke and/or lever action/actuation can be provided by any one independent mechanism or one separate adjustment mechanism (e.g. without any other adjustment mechanism) or by a combination of adjustment mechanisms (e.g.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2019
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Applicant: HAYES BICYCLE GROUP INC.
    Inventor: John L. THOMAS
  • Publication number: 20200010143
    Abstract: A cycling shoe fixing device and a bicycle are provided. The cycling shoe fixing device includes a brake sensing module, a cycling shoe releasing module and a power supply module. The brake sensing module is disposed inside a brake handle of the bicycle. The brake sensor of the brake sensing module can sense the braking action of the brake handle to generate a sensing signal. The cycling shoe releasing module is disposed inside the pedal module of the bicycle. Upon receipt of the sensing signal, a driving unit can drive the engagement unit according to the sensing signal, to make the cycling shoes separable from the pedal module. With the configuration, the cycling shoes can be released automatically in response to subconscious action, to prevent from risk that the rider takes off the cycling shoes too late.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2018
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Inventor: BRYAN WEILUEN KAO
  • Publication number: 20200010144
    Abstract: A human-powered vehicle component includes an input device, to which first information related to at least one of a human-powered vehicle, a rider of the human-powered vehicle, and environment of the human-powered vehicle is input. The human-powered vehicle component further comprises an electric actuator and an artificial intelligence processor configured to generate second information for controlling the electric actuator in accordance with the first information input to the input device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2019
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Inventor: Tomohiro Kondo
  • Publication number: 20200010145
    Abstract: A system for controlling the electric motor of a pedal-assisted bicycle including a pedal-thrust group and a battery. The control system includes a pedal-thrust cadence sensor a pedal-thrust torque sensor, a bicycle acceleration or speed sensor a motor power detecting sensor a closed-loop controller of the torque, a closed-loop controller of the resisting torque and a dividing. The closed-loop controller of the torque is configured to generate a reference motor command signal based on the cyclist torque The closed-loop controller of the resisting torque is configured to generate a reference motor command signal based on the resisting torque. The dividing module is configured to generate a motor reference command signal based on the reference motor command signal based on the cyclist torque, on the reference motor command signal based on the resisting torque, on the effective resisting torque, and based on a reference dividing parameter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2018
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Inventors: Paolo LISANTI, Marcello SEGATO, Daniele BERRETTA
  • Publication number: 20200010146
    Abstract: A system for estimating the behavior of a cyclist on a bicycle and/or of the quality of a road along a path followed by said bicycle, comprising: a sensor configured to detect the vertical acceleration of the bicycle and to supply a signal representative of the same; a module for estimating vertical impacts configured to: receive at the input the signal representative of the vertical acceleration for a determined time; acknowledge one or more first portions of the signal representative of the vertical acceleration, containing peaks due to vertical impacts, and one or more second portions of the signal representative of the vertical acceleration devoid of said peaks due to vertical impacts, wherein said one or more first portions of the signal representative of the vertical acceleration are indicative of the cyclist's behavior, and said one or more second portions of the signal representative of the vertical acceleration are indicative of the road quality.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2018
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Inventors: Daniele BERRETTA, Marcello SEGATO, Paolo LISANTI
  • Publication number: 20200010147
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an asymmetric elliptical chainring for a clipless pedal, wherein a slope at each imaginary point of a first to second elliptical section increases counterclockwise, a slope at each imaginary point of a third elliptical section decreases counterclockwise, a virtual center line in a longitudinal direction of a crank arm is located so as to have a set angle in the counterclockwise direction from a starting point of the first elliptical section, the starting point of the first elliptical section is the shortest distance from a center of an asymmetric ellipse, has a curve of a first set curvature or less, and forms a first angular section from the starting point of the first elliptical section, a start point of the second elliptical section meets an end point of the first elliptical section located within a first near transition section, the end point of the second elliptical section is the longest distance from the center of the asymmetric ellipse, a curvature of the second ellipt
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2017
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Inventor: Yun Seok CHOI
  • Publication number: 20200010148
    Abstract: A creation device is provided that has at least one processor operatively coupled to non-transitory computer readable storage to execute operations that includes an acquisition part and a creation part. The acquisition part acquires input information concerning traveling of a human-powered vehicle. The creation part uses a learning algorithm to create a learning model that outputs output information concerning control of the components of the human-powered vehicle based on the input information.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2019
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Inventors: Hayato SHIMAZU, Hitoshi TAKAYAMA, Satoshi SHAHANA, Takafumi NISHINO, Takehiko NAKAJIMA
  • Publication number: 20200010149
    Abstract: A creation device includes an acquisition part that acquires input information concerning traveling of a human-powered vehicle; and a creation part that creates different learning models that each produce output information concerning control of a component of the human-powered vehicle based on input information acquired by the acquisition part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2019
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Inventors: Hayato SHIMAZU, Hitoshi TAKAYAMA, Satoshi SHAHANA, Takafumi NISHINO, Takehiko NAKAJIMA
  • Publication number: 20200010150
    Abstract: A control device for a bicycle comprises a support body having a substantially horizontal reference plane extending from a rear end configured for fixing to bicycle handlebars to a front part opposite the rear end. The reference plane divides the support body into an upper and lower part, where the front part comprises a protuberance extending upwards with respect to the reference plane. The control device comprises a first manual control member of a first actuator device, a second manual control member of a second actuator device and a third manual control member for operating a third actuator device. The first manual control member is associated with the lower part of the support body. The second manual control member is associated with the lower part of the support body. The third manual control member is associated with the upper part of the support body and arranged on the protuberance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2019
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Applicant: CAMPAGNOLO S.r.l.
    Inventor: Bruno TASONIERO
  • Publication number: 20200010151
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are hydrofoil vessels and systems integrated with renewable energy sources. In one aspect, the hydrofoil vessel includes one or more hulls, an omni-directional platform connecting the one or more hulls of the hydrofoil vessel. The omni-directional platform may include at least one of: a sail, a wind turbine, a solar panel, a hydroelectric motor, a hydrofoil controller platform, and a battery component. Also disclosed herein are methods and computer readable medium for controlling an omni direct modular hydrofoil vessel having one or more hulls integrated with renewable-energy sources.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2018
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Inventor: VOLODYMYR ZADOROZHNYY
  • Publication number: 20200010152
    Abstract: A collapsible mast of or for a yacht includes a base, a top section, and a rotation mechanism arranged between the base and the top section configured to rotate the top section relative to the base between an upright extended state, in which the top section extends in line with the base, and a collapsed state, in which the top section is rotated downward to reduce a height of the mast. The rotation mechanism comprises an axis oriented transverse through the base. Further, the rotation mechanism comprises a rotation arm, which is rotatably connected to the base via the axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2018
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Applicant: HERMITAGE FO SARL
    Inventor: Oleg BOURLAKOV
  • Publication number: 20200010153
    Abstract: Methods and systems for recovering, processing, containing, and transporting water obtained from an ice source, i.e., a glacier, ice sheet, ice cap, etc., are described herein. The ice obtained from the ice source holds unique properties and is processed as a beverage for consumption having unique properties. Further, the resulting product is produced and transported with minimal human alteration and reduced energy input as compared to conventional methods for packaging water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2019
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Applicant: WORLD'S FRESH WATERS PTE. LTD
    Inventors: Allen Szydlowski, Ian Szydlowski, Mickey Fouts
  • Publication number: 20200010154
    Abstract: A boat including one or more seats, which may be aft-facing. The seat includes a seat bottom, which may be movable between a first position and a second position. The second position is a position in which the seat bottom is pivoted upwardly relative to the position of the seat bottom in the first position to allow access to a hidden compartment. The seat may also include a leg rest. The leg rest may extend aft of the transom, and may extend in a direction that is at a downward angle relative to the seat bottom. The leg rest may also have a length such that a gap is present between the leg rest and a surface beneath the leg rest.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2019
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Inventors: Chadrick E. Curts, Daniel P. Vieira, Rosemary M. Bennett, David F. Ekern
  • Publication number: 20200010155
    Abstract: Systems and methods are presented for deploying and using a floating platform using articulated spar legs used as a type of hull, each of the spar legs attached to the floating platform by an articulated connection. Each of the articulated spar legs being moveable from a horizontal to a vertical position, horizontal for transport and vertical for deployment of the floating platform. The articulated spar legs serve to support the floating position of the floating platform. The articulated spar legs are moved from horizontal to vertical position by controlling ballast imposed upon or within spar legs. Each of the articulated spar legs are moveable from a vertical to a horizontal position with a ballast changing method. Systems and methods are presented for extracting natural renewable energy from the environment surrounding the floating platform with energy capture devices modularly affixed to the platform and energy capture devices incorporated into the articulated spar legs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2019
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Inventors: Roy Robinson, Georg Engelmann
  • Publication number: 20200010156
    Abstract: A fin for use on a surfboard, the fin comprising: a leading edge, a trailing edge, and a base, the base comprising at least one mount for mounting the fin onto a surfboard; a first and a second outer fin surface which meet along the leading edge and the trailing edge and abut the base; and a first ridge protruding laterally from the first outer fin surface, and/or a second ridge protruding laterally from the second outer fin surface; wherein the shape and configuration of the fin creates an area of lower water pressure around and in front of the fin, as well as disrupting and/or reducing the size of trailing vortices, resulting in additional forward thrust for the board on which the fin is mounted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2018
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Inventor: Glenndin George Miller
  • Publication number: 20200010157
    Abstract: Connector systems for, for example, polymeric solid foam products and products using such systems are disclosed. The connector systems may comprise a pair of hollow coupling members embedded in adjacent foam bodies, such as sections of a surfboard or paddleboard. When axially aligned, the coupling members may be connected together by a connector member that extends into each coupling member. The coupling members have internal projections. The connector member has bent connector channels along which the projections can travel when the connector member is rotated about its axis and in so doing the foam bodies may be connected together or disconnected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2019
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Inventor: Tyson James Peterson
  • Publication number: 20200010158
    Abstract: Hydraulic pump-accessory assemblies are provided for engines. The assemblies may include: an accessory pulley or gear configured to engage a drive belt or chain of an engine; and a hydraulic pump operatively engaging the pulley or gear to be driven by the engine. Engines are provided that can include: a crankshaft pulley or gear operably engaging a belt or chain to convey power to one or more accessories; an accessory pulley or gear operably engaged by the belt or chain; and a hydraulic pump operatively engaging the accessory pulley or gear to receive power from the belt or chain. Methods for modifying an engine are also provided. The methods can include operatively engaging a hydraulic motor to the pulley or gear of an accessory configured to be operably engaged with a belt or chain of the engine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2019
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Inventor: Richard L. Hartman
  • Publication number: 20200010159
    Abstract: A preformed foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system, comprises at least three of a first side support, a second side support, a third side support, and a fourth side support. The side supports define an opening for accommodating at least a portion of a vessel gyro-stabilization system, and the side supports comprise a cuttable portion for custom fitting the preformed foundation support in a vessel. The preformed foundation support structure is installed in the vessel by cutting the cuttable portion of the preformed foundation support for custom fitting the preformed foundation support to the structure support of the vessel. The preformed foundation support structure can be manufactured as a molded fiberglass structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2018
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Inventor: William Walsh Jennings
  • Publication number: 20200010160
    Abstract: A load arrangement powers loads on a surface (30) of a marine structure exposed to a fouling liquid (10), and has a transmitter arrangement (110) and at least one carrier medium (100) having embedded loads (20). Front electrodes (130) are arranged to be coupled to the liquid, and back electrodes (120) have back electrically conductive layers embedded in the carrier medium to form, in combination with an opposite area of the marine 5 structure and a dielectric layer (4a), a back capacitor for capacitive transfer of the supply current between the second power node and one pole of the power source coupled to the marine structure. The transmitter arrangement has a supply line (111) and a multitude of transmitters (114) galvanically connected to the supply line. The multitude of transmitters is distributed along the supply line to be arranged near the multiple front electrodes to form 10 short conductive paths (113).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2017
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Inventors: Martinus Hermanus Wilhelmus Maria VAN DELDEN, Michiel Johannes JONGERIUS
  • Publication number: 20200010161
    Abstract: An underwater mobile inspection apparatus capable of inspecting an inspection object on a seafloor while cruising includes a cruising body configured to submerge under-water and cruise along the inspection object so as to not come into contact with the inspection object, a first movable arm provided on the cruising-body, and an inspection tool unit provided on the first movable arm and including at least one of an image-capturing camera for use in visually inspecting the inspection object and a device configured to inspect a wall thickness of the inspection object by using an ultrasonic wave. A controller is configured to, when the cruising-body cruises along the inspection object so as to not come into contact with the inspection object, operate the first movable arm to move the inspection tool unit, such that a positional relationship of the inspection tool unit with the inspection object becomes a predetermined target positional relationship.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2019
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Applicant: KAWASAKI JUKOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Akira KIMURA, Noriyuki OKAYA, Kazuya SUMINO, Minehiko MUKAIDA, Hiroaki KAGAYA, Masanori HAMAMATSU, Akiyoshi SAIKI, Tetsuya KUBOTA, Masayuki ENOMOTO
  • Publication number: 20200010162
    Abstract: An underwater propulsion unit including a propeller, a motor, and a housing. The motor is disposed further forward in a propulsion direction than the propeller and drives the propeller into rotation. The housing that accommodates the motor and the propeller includes a first portion and a second portion. In the second portion disposed further rearward in the propulsion direction than the first portion, an introduction inlet and a spout outlet are provided. The introduction inlet (21) introduces water into the housing, and water introduced from the introduction inlet and delivered by the propeller is spouted out of the housing. When viewed in a direction parallel to the propulsion direction, the introduction inlet is disposed further outward than the first portion and introduces water into the housing in a direction parallel to the axis of the propeller.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2018
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Applicant: Yanmar Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hideaki AOKI, Takeshi OUCHiDA
  • Publication number: 20200010163
    Abstract: A propeller guard including inner circumferential component defining a multi-angled band formed of a plurality of independently radiused sections and an outer fluid amplifier extending along sides of the inner circumferential component. The band may also include a plurality of evenly spaced ports therethrough. The propeller guard is designed to improve the performance characteristics, specifically acceleration, planing, speed and steering, of the motor. The outer fluid amplifier increases flow of fluid through the ports of the inner circumferential component and further improves performance characteristics of the boat and motor to which the propeller guard is attached.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2018
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Inventor: Guy Taylor
  • Publication number: 20200010164
    Abstract: Various embodiments of a submerged sailing vessel are disclosed. Such a submerged sailing vessel may comprise a submersible hull assembly, a keel coupled to and extending upwards from hull assembly towards a water surface, and a wind-catching assembly coupled to and extending upwards into the air from the keel for propelling the submerged sailing vessel. The hull assembly and keel are submerged below the water surface as the vessel is propelled by the wind-catching assembly above the water surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2019
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Inventors: Chris Todter, Mark Timothy Ott, Michael B. Jones
  • Publication number: 20200010165
    Abstract: A sensor is fixed on an aircraft structure by a joining system which includes at least one enclosure in which is positioned at least one transducer, at least one passage configured to allow at least one conducting element to pass through the enclosure, at least one flexible connection connecting each transducer present in the enclosure to said enclosure and at least one binder joining together the enclosure and the structure. This joining system makes it possible to limit the spread of the deformations of the structure toward the transducer or transducers and ultimately the risks of malfunction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2019
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Applicant: Airbus Operations S.A.S.
    Inventor: Marie-Anne De Smet
  • Publication number: 20200010166
    Abstract: An aircraft with a system for estimating the parameters of an impact. The aircraft includes a skin forming an outer surface of the aircraft, the aircraft equipped with a system for estimating the parameters of an impact including an array of sensors attached to the skin and a central processing unit connected to the array, the array of sensors including a first set of sensors providing data relating to elastic waves, the central processing unit configured for assessing the parameters of an impact from the data of the sensor array and a response model of the skin to external excitations calculated from the modal properties of the skin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2019
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Inventors: Didier Gendre, Dimitri Goutaudier
  • Publication number: 20200010167
    Abstract: A heater panel includes a core. A heater/dielectric layer including a positive thermal coefficient (PTC) heater layer between a pair of dielectric layers is bonded to the core in a stack. An impact layer is bonded to the stack, wherein the impact layer includes a first sub-layer for impact absorption that is bonded to the stack and a second sub-layer for cut resistance bonded to the first sub-layer. The second sub-layer has a higher material hardness than that of the first-sub layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2018
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Inventors: Casey Slane, Nathaniel Ching, Jin Hu, Galdemir Cezar Botura
  • Publication number: 20200010168
    Abstract: A heated floor panel assembly for aircraft includes structural layers made of a fiber matrix and a high temperature thermoplastic resin. The structural layers are within the heated floor panel assembly to protect the other assembly components from damage and absorb stress. The heated floor panel assembly further includes a heating layer with a heating element, an impact layer, and a core layer to take shear stress exerted on the assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2018
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Inventors: Jin Hu, Nathaniel Ching, Wenping Zhao, Casey Slane, Galdemir Cezar Botura
  • Publication number: 20200010169
    Abstract: A heated floor panel assembly with an impact layer is made to absorb blunt force and protect a heating element inside the assembly. The assembly further includes a plurality of structural layer made of a reinforced polymer matrix, one or more core layer with a honeycomb or foam structure for absorbing shear stress, and a heating layer containing the heating element. The impact layer is a composite layer with a resin impregnated fiber matrix.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2018
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Inventors: Casey Slane, Nathaniel Ching, Wenping Zhao, Daniel Waina, Jin Hu, Brandon Hein, George F. Owens, James A. Mullen
  • Publication number: 20200010170
    Abstract: An insulation insert comprises a hollow cylinder formed of a closed cell foam, a first adhesive layer on a first face of the hollow cylinder, a flange of the closed cell foam extending from the hollow cylinder, and a second adhesive layer on a second face of the flange.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2018
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Inventor: Trevor M. Laib
  • Publication number: 20200010171
    Abstract: A gurney flap arrangement comprises: an airfoil with an opening in a surface of the airfoil; a gurney flap having a first position in which at least a portion of the gurney flap extends through the opening and projects outwardly from the airfoil surface, and a second position in which the gurney flap does not project from the airfoil surface or projects outwardly from the airfoil surface to a lesser extent; and a seal disposed about the opening to seal a gap in the opening between the gurney flap and the airfoil.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2019
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Inventors: Suat Bekircan, Paul Brewer
  • Publication number: 20200010172
    Abstract: A nosecone assembly having an axially extending centerline is provided. The assembly includes a nosecone body and at least one access panel. The nosecone body has at least one wall that defines an interior cavity. The wall has an interior surface contiguous with the interior cavity, and at least one window aperture extending through the wall. The access panel has first and second face surfaces. The access panel is attached to the wall interior surface within an attachment region that includes first and second attachment region portions partially contiguous with one another. The first and second attachment region portions define an interior unattached region, and the interior unattached region is aligned with the window aperture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2019
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Inventors: John Harner, James J. McPhail
  • Publication number: 20200010173
    Abstract: A propeller blade-tip flow isolator that can be used on a propeller, rotor, or wind turbine is provided. The propeller blade-tip flow isolator integrates with the blade at the outer radius and shields the propeller blade-tip boundary layer, reducing blade-tip vortices. A twist along the blade-tip chord further reduces or eliminates the blade-tip vortices that inherently occurs on the exposed blade tips during normal operations. Efficiency and performance are improved while noise and acoustic levels are reduced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2016
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Inventor: Kevin Michael Scully
  • Publication number: 20200010174
    Abstract: In some embodiments, an airfoil comprises a proximal end; a distal end opposite said proximal end; a distal portion extending adjacent said distal end; an edge extending between said proximal end and said distal end; and a surface extending between said proximal end and said distal end, said edge and said surface defining a sweep and a cahedral through said distal portion, wherein the distal portion extends over an acoustically active portion of the airfoil.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2019
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Inventors: Trevor Howard Wood, Kishore Ramakrishnan
  • Publication number: 20200010175
    Abstract: An assembly is provided for active laminar flow control. This assembly includes a panel, which panel includes an outer skin, an inner skin and a plurality of plenums between the outer skin and the inner skin. Each of the plurality of plenums is fluidly coupled with a respective array of perforations through the outer skin. The panel is constructed from fiber-reinforced composite material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2018
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Inventors: Pablo T. Sanz Martinez, Johann S. Schrell, Thomas Paolini
  • Publication number: 20200010176
    Abstract: A connector, a connector assembly, an aircraft fuel breather system and an aircraft wing are disclosed. The connector connects a breather pipe or float valve to a hat section stringer duct attached to an aircraft panel. The connecter has a bridge to bridge over the duct and to cover an aperture in a wall of the duct. The bridge has a flange on either side for attachment of the connector to the panel. The connector has a seal to seal the bridge to the duct, an aperture defined in the bridge and a flow controller connector to connect and provide fluid connection between the connector and pipe or float valve. The assembly comprises the connector, the duct and aircraft panel and the fuel breather system includes one or more fuel tanks, a breather pipe and a vent to atmosphere.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2019
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Inventors: Paul DOUGLAS, Anthony John BRYANT, Daniel PEACHEY
  • Publication number: 20200010177
    Abstract: An aircraft including a wing and a wing tip device is disclosed. The wing tip device is moveable between a flight configuration for use during flight and a ground configuration for use during ground-based operations. In the ground configuration the wing tip device is folded inwardly from the flight configuration such that the span of the aircraft is reduced. The wing tip device is connected to the wing along a hinge axis by spar beams of the wing tip device, one of the beams being mounted for pivoting about a fixed axis and the other beam being mounted on a spherical bearing to provide greater freedom of movement. Various actuator arrangements may be provided to pivot the wing tip device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2019
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Inventors: Timothy AXFORD, Tony FONG, Stuart ALEXANDER
  • Publication number: 20200010178
    Abstract: An aircraft landing gear having a shock absorbing strut and a shortening mechanism coupled between a walking beam and a shortening portion of a shock absorber. The shortening mechanism is arranged such that when the walking beam is at a first position due to a first extension state of the retraction actuator the shortening mechanism is in a locked condition in which it inhibits axial movement of the shortening portion within the strut element in the first direction axial direction, and as the retraction actuator changes in extension state from the first extension state towards a second extension state, the retraction actuator moves the walking beam which in turn causes the shortening mechanism to move the shortening portion within the strut element in the first axial direction to shorten the shock absorbing strut.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2019
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Inventor: Ian Bennett
  • Publication number: 20200010179
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides an UAV. The UAV includes a body; a landing gear for supporting the body when the UAV is landing; and an antenna mounting bracket connected to the landing gear. The antenna mounting gear includes a mounting base for mounting an RTK antenna; a mounting bracket that is connected to the mounting base; and a landing gear base for connecting to the landing gear, the landing gear base being rotatably connected to the mounting bracket. The mounting bracket is in an extended state when the RTK antenna and the landing gear are respectively located on an upper and a lower side of the landing gear base; and the mounting bracket is in a folded state when the RTK antenna and the landing gear base are on the same side of the landing gear base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2019
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Inventors: Yucheng LIU, Li QIU
  • Publication number: 20200010180
    Abstract: A drive system for rotating a wheel of an aircraft landing gear is disclosed. The drive system includes a motor operable to rotate a drive pinion via a drive path, and a driven gear adapted to be mounted to the wheel. The drive system has a first configuration in which the drive pinion is capable of meshing with the driven gear to permit the motor to drive the driven gear via the drive path. The drive path has a plurality of shafts rotatable about respect shaft axes, including an output shaft. The output shaft is operable to pivot about the axis of rotation of another shaft axis spaced from the output shaft axis. Also, an aircraft landing gear having a wheel and the drive system, where the driven gear of the drive system is mounted to the wheel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2019
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Inventors: Arnaud DIDEY, Fraser WILSON
  • Publication number: 20200010181
    Abstract: An example aircraft includes (i) a landing gear having a chassis, an axle, and wheels mounted to ends of the axle; (ii) a hydraulic actuator including a cylinder, a first piston coupled to the chassis, and a second piston coupled to the axle; and (iii) a directional control valve including: inlet ports configured to be fluidly coupled to a source of pressurized fluid, tank ports configured to be fluidly coupled to a tank, and workports configured to be fluidly coupled to the hydraulic actuator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2018
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Inventors: Gary M. Lindahl, Mitchell L.R. Mellor, Brian P. Salsbery
  • Publication number: 20200010182
    Abstract: A pivoting wing system, capable of vertical take-off and landing, having a hub connected to one or more wings provided on a spanwise axis. The wings are further provided with one or more thrust producing devices mounted to the top and bottom of the wings. The thrust producing devices are configured pivot the wings about the spanwise axis. The wings generate lift for forward flight situations, and the configuration allows for controlled vertical and horizontal flight. The wings may also be configured as rotary elements and enable the system to take flight like a helicopter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2016
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Inventor: Joseph Raymond Renteria
  • Publication number: 20200010183
    Abstract: A method of blade fold for a tiltrotor aircraft includes configuring the tiltrotor aircraft in a flight ready position with a rotor system in an inverted-Y position, unlocking a first rotor blade of the rotor system to permit the first rotor blade to pivot relative to a yoke of the rotor system, restraining the first rotor blade to allow the first rotor blade to pivot relative to the yoke as the yoke is rotated, rotating the rotor system in a first direction so that the first rotor blade pivots closer to a second rotor blade, rotating the rotor system in a second direction to orient the rotor system into a modified inverted-Y position, unlocking a third rotor blade to allow the third rotor blade to pivot relative to the yoke as the yoke is rotated, and rotating the rotor system in the second direction so that the third rotor blade pivots closer to the second rotor blade.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2018
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Applicant: Bell Helicopter Textron Inc.
    Inventors: Amarjit KIZHAKKEPAT, Glenn Alan SHIMEK
  • Publication number: 20200010184
    Abstract: This disclosure describes a configuration of an unmanned aerial vehicle (“UAV”) that will facilitate extended flight duration. The UAV may have any number of lifting motors. For example, the UAV may include four lifting motors (also known as a quad-copter), eight lifting motors (also known as an octo-copter), etc. Likewise, to improve the efficiency of horizontal flight, the UAV also includes a pivot assembly that may rotate about an axis from a lifting position to a thrusting position. The pivot assembly may include two or more offset motors that generate a differential force that will cause the pivot assembly to rotate between the lifting position and the thrusting position without the need for any additional motors or gears.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2019
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Inventor: Ricky Dean Welsh
  • Publication number: 20200010185
    Abstract: An aircraft has an emergency rotor, and the emergency rotor can be deployed from a rest position into a use position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2019
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Applicant: Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Stefan Bender
  • Publication number: 20200010186
    Abstract: An aircraft includes a fuselage and propellers herein the propellers can be retracted beneath the fuselage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2019
    Publication date: January 9, 2020
    Applicant: Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Stefan Bender, Mikel Fauri