Patents Issued in May 14, 2020
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Publication number: 20200148296Abstract: A foldable bicycle contains: a front frame, a rear frame, and a folding device. The front frame includes a front fork connected on a front wheel, and the rear frame includes a rear fork connected on a rear wheel and includes a seatpost coupled with a connection post and a saddle. The folding device is rotatably connected between the front frame and the second frame. The front fork has a sole column, the front wheel is inserted through a hub by using a hollow hub shaft to connect with the sole column, and the hollow hub shaft has a first connection element defined in a central portion thereof The rear wheel has a second connection element extending outward from a central portion thereof so as to fit with the first connection element after folding the front wheel and the second wheel.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 13, 2018Publication date: May 14, 2020Inventor: Chen Ching CHANG
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Publication number: 20200148297Abstract: A powered vehicle has a rear frame assembly and a front frame assembly that are pivotally attached to one another, and can be pivoted from a normal fully-extended operating position to a folded position in which the frame assemblies are positioned substantially adjacent to one another, effectively reducing overall vehicle length to about half. One or more latch members lock the front and rear frame assemblies in the fully-extended, normal operating position, and they may be used to lock the frame assemblies in the folded position. The seat support structure may be integrated with the front and rear frame assemblies such that pivoting the frame assemblies toward the folded position collapses the seat support. The steering tiller may also be collapsible toward the front frame assembly. The rear wheels may be mounted on a transaxle that is pivotally mounted on the rear frame assembly. An extendable handle may be provided to assist in the folding operation and to tow the collapsed vehicle on its anti-tip rollers.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 13, 2019Publication date: May 14, 2020Inventors: James M. Kosco, Charles J. Martis, Sterling G. Lamoreaux, III
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Publication number: 20200148298Abstract: A variable stem for a human-powered vehicle basically includes a head tube mount, a handlebar mount, a stem body, a positioning structure and a controller. The stem body couples the handlebar mount to the head tube mount. The stem body is configured to be moved between a first position and a second position. The handlebar mount is disposed at a different location with respect to the head tube mount with the stem body in the first position as compared to the stem body being in the second position. The positioning structure is configured to selectively position the stem body between a first position and a second position. The controller is configured to control the positioning structure while the human-powered vehicle is in a driving state.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 14, 2018Publication date: May 14, 2020Inventor: Nobukatsu HARA
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Publication number: 20200148299Abstract: A bicycle electric suspension comprises a first tube, a second tube, a positioning structure, an electric positioning actuator, and a telescopic controller. The first tube has a center axis. The second tube is telescopically received in the first tube. The positioning structure is configured to relatively position the first tube and the second tube in a telescopic direction extending along the center axis of the first tube. The electric positioning actuator is configured to actuate the positioning structure. The telescopic controller has a control mode in which the telescopic controller controls the electric positioning actuator to actuate the positioning structure, and a sleep mode in which power consumption of the telescopic controller is lower than power consumption of the telescopic controller in the control mode.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 10, 2020Publication date: May 14, 2020Applicant: SHIMANO INC.Inventors: Atsushi KOMATSU, Takafumi NISHINO, Yuta KUROKAWA
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Publication number: 20200148300Abstract: A bicycle electric suspension comprises a first tube, a second tube, a positioning structure, an electric positioning actuator, and a telescopic controller. The first tube has a center axis. The second tube is telescopically received in the first tube. The positioning structure is configured to relatively position the first tube and the second tube in a telescopic direction extending along the center axis of the first tube. The electric positioning actuator is configured to actuate the positioning structure. The telescopic controller has a pairing signal transmission mode in which the telescopic controller transmits a pairing signal to a bicycle electric device.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 14, 2020Publication date: May 14, 2020Applicant: SHIMANO INC.Inventors: Atsushi KOMATSU, Takafumi NISHINO, Yuta KUROKAWA
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Publication number: 20200148301Abstract: The front fork of the present invention has a wheel-side bracket that closes another end of an inner tube which is movably inserted inside an outer tube from one end thereof; a cylinder provided inside the inner tube; and a head member that is fitted to the cylinder side on the opposite side from the wheel-side bracket, in which the cylinder and the head member are sandwiched, while subjected to an axial force, by a fastening portion formed on the inner tube and the wheel-side bracket.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 5, 2018Publication date: May 14, 2020Applicant: KYB MOTORCYCLE SUSPENSION CO., LTD.Inventors: Wataru ISHIHARA, Takahiko JINNOUCHI
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Publication number: 20200148302Abstract: A child's riding vehicle can be quickly reconfigured between a balance bike configuration and a pedal-powered bicycle configuration, suitable for children of different ages, without removing any parts to be stored separately. The pedal crank arms can be repositioned on the crank and the pedal axles can be pivoted so that in the balance bike configuration: the pedal crank arms are positioned adjacent to one another and generally upward; the pedal axles are pointed mostly rearwardly but also slightly inwardly rather than extending transversely side-to-side; and the crank arms and pedal axles are telescoped in. The result is that in the balance bike configuration the pedals and crank arms are compacted and folded out of the way so as not to interfere with the child riding the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 28, 2019Publication date: May 14, 2020Applicant: MGA Entertainment, Inc.Inventors: Jeff Gatto, Eric Fobean
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Publication number: 20200148303Abstract: Exemplary embodiments are directed to a pedal for a bicycle that includes a body, a spindle secured to the body and for connection to the bicycle, a first magnetic platter, and a second magnetic platter overlaying the first magnetic platter. The first and second magnetic platters each include a plurality of blocks formed of a material that can be magnetized, and a plurality of permanent magnet plates arranged so as to magnetize the blocks with either a magnetic north or magnetic south polarity with adjacent blocks being magnetized with opposite magnetic polarities. The second magnetic platter is movable with respect to the first magnetic platter by a ferrous metal cleat between a first position where the pedal is in a magnetically inactive state and a second position where the pedal is in a magnetically active state magnetically securing the cleat to the second magnetic platter.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 14, 2020Publication date: May 14, 2020Applicants: Smart Clips LLC, Magswitch Technology, Inc.Inventors: Steven Ball, Shane Felton
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Publication number: 20200148304Abstract: An electric bicycle having an electric motor mounted to a frame of the bicycle and which includes a motor output shaft defining an output end engaging a drive chain of the bicycles drive train to transmit the drive of the electric motor thereto. A torque sensor includes a base mounted in fixed relation to the frame and/or the electric motor. The torque sensor has a flexible arm extending from the base and a sensing member mounted to an extremity of the flexible arm that is displaceable relative to the base. The sensing member engages the drive chain along a segment thereof and is displaceable thereby. The segment of the drive chain extends from the output end of the motor output shaft to the pedal crank of the drive train.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 17, 2020Publication date: May 14, 2020Inventors: D'Arcy O'CONNOR, Benoit CLOUTIER
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Publication number: 20200148305Abstract: A bicycle operating device comprises a base, a user operated input, a cable actuator and a positioning abutment. The user operated input is movably arranged with respect to the base from a rest position towards an operated position. The cable actuator is movably arranged with respect to the base in response to movement of the user operated input between at least first and second cable holding positions. The positioning abutment is movably supported on the base between at least a first abutment position and a second abutment position. The positioning abutment selectively engages the user operated input to position the user operated input at an adjusted rest position in a state after the user operated input has been moved from the rest position to the operated position. The adjusted rest position is different from the rest position.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 8, 2018Publication date: May 14, 2020Inventor: Tatsuya KAWAKAMI
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Publication number: 20200148306Abstract: The present invention provides an inflatable paddle board including an inflatable paddle board body, an air pressure detection device, and an air pressure display device, where the air pressure detection device is configured to detect air pressure in an air chamber of the inflatable paddle board body and transmit detected air pressure information; and the air pressure display device is configured to receive and display the air pressure information. The inflatable paddle board provided by the present invention enables a user to know the air pressure of the inflatable paddle board at any time, so that the abnormal situation of the air pressure of the inflatable paddle board can be found in time and a response can be made, and the inflatable paddle board has high safety.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 19, 2019Publication date: May 14, 2020Inventors: PENG LIN, XIAOJIE GONG, LEQIANG LIN
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Publication number: 20200148307Abstract: Disclosed is a boat including a flexible bottom bordered radially towards the outside by a wall which includes an inflatable and flexible front wall, an inflatable and flexible lateral wall, and a rear wall. At least one part of at least one of the lateral wall and of the front wall is constituted by a first inflatable element configured as a panel having two parallel planar faces, a second inflatable element of which the cross section is in the form of a D with a planar portion, and a flexible assembly device, the second element being situated radially towards the outside of the boat with respect to the first element, the assembly device maintaining the planar portion of the second element in contact with one of the planar faces of the first element.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 29, 2018Publication date: May 14, 2020Inventors: Marc CASSANAS, Guillaume LACOSTE
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Publication number: 20200148308Abstract: In a three row, roller bearing assembly coupling a vessel to a turret, the bearing assembly having a support row assembly disposed between an inner ring connected to the turret and outer rings connected to the vessel, a method and arrangement for in situ remediation of a damaged support row assembly. Couplers are secured to existing inner ring stud bolts. A continuous bearing ring below the couplers is assembled and a support bearing arrangement is installed between the couplers and the bearing ring. Reaction plates are mounted to the vessel. Each reaction plate has a jack screw which is positioned directly below the bearing ring. The jack screws are turned to elevate the bearing ring and form a flat surface for support of the support bearing arrangement. The turret axial load is transferred from the damaged support row assembly to the support bearing arrangement.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 17, 2020Publication date: May 14, 2020Applicant: SOFEC, INC.Inventors: Stephen P. Lindblade, Miles A. Hobdy, William L. Fontenot, David M. Seaman, Patrick R. Thornberry
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Publication number: 20200148309Abstract: An apparatus is for cutting a line extending from a floating vessel having a deck. The apparatus includes: two guide pins configured to move between a retracted position and an extended position, wherein a distance between the guide pins, in an extended position, is spanned by a spacer, the spacer forming a reaction surface; a cutting device mounted between the two guide pins, the cutting device being configured to move between a retracted position and an extended position; wherein the cutting device is arranged to perform a direct cut of the line against the reaction surface without holding the line prior to cutting such that the line may be cut directly independently of the orientation of the line.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 14, 2018Publication date: May 14, 2020Applicant: Smart Installations ASInventor: Petter Birkeland
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Publication number: 20200148310Abstract: A movable platform assembly for a boat comprises a base structure adapted to be fixed to the boat, a platform, an articulated system that connects the platform to the base structure, wherein the platform is movable between a raised position which is horizontally adjacent to the base structure, and a lowered position which is horizontally away from the base structure, and a pull-out step ladder comprising an articulated parallelogram structure to which a plurality of steps is hinged, the articulated parallelogram structure being connected to the platform and having an end adapted to be fixed to the boat. In the raised position of the platform the pull-out step ladder is arranged under the platform.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 7, 2019Publication date: May 14, 2020Inventor: Michele Grimaldi
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Publication number: 20200148311Abstract: A seating and storage system for marine vehicles includes a seat, a seatback disposed at a rear portion of the seat, and a hinge assembly. The seatback includes a base portion and a movable cover. The base portion has a storage compartment therein including a front wall. The movable cover is configured to cover a horizontally accessible opening in the front wall. The opening being located above the seat. The cover is movable between an open position and a closed position. The hinge assembly is constructed and arranged to movably connect the movable cover to the base portion. The hinge assembly being configured such that in a fully open position, the cover is entirely positioned on a seat side of the rear surface of the seat back.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 14, 2020Publication date: May 14, 2020Inventor: Travis Edward LANGEVIN
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Publication number: 20200148312Abstract: A saddle for an aquatic board is disclosed. The saddle is equipped with a strap or straps and/or edge wise clamps, or other suitably firm fastener, to engage and maintain position on the aquatic board positioned beneath the saddle. A user can then stand on the board and squeeze the saddle between their knees and ankles and maintain an enhanced balance on the board or, if fatigued, can sit or kneel alongside or on the saddle and paddle/ride from a seated or kneeling position. The saddle may be inflatable or solid and may include an inner void for storage for personal effects or equipment. The saddle may further include a speaker, cup holder, handles, or other optional features.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 17, 2020Publication date: May 14, 2020Inventor: Glen Wade DUFF
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Publication number: 20200148313Abstract: A reel system for managing a surf rope on a said boat.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 12, 2019Publication date: May 14, 2020Inventor: Ryan Swiatek
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Publication number: 20200148314Abstract: The invention discloses an automatic maintenance apparatus for cleanliness of river surface, which includes a processing device housing. The processing device housing is provided with a working chamber, and the working chamber is provided with a lifting mechanism. The lifting mechanism can collect garbage on the river surface. In this device, the garbage collected is simply sorted. A conveying mechanism is provided on the right side of the lifting mechanism, and a storage mechanism is provided on the lower side of the conveying mechanism. The storage mechanism includes the trapezoidal block. The storage frame between the right end surface and the right end wall of the working cavity. When there is too much waterweed in the storage frame, the device will stop working. The device is easy to operate, and the two devices are fixed at a certain position on both sides of the hull. Then, turn on the motor and start the boat.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 14, 2020Publication date: May 14, 2020Inventor: Tianhua Yang
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Publication number: 20200148315Abstract: The invention discloses an automatic maintenance apparatus for cleanliness of river surface, which includes a processing device housing. The processing device housing is provided with a working chamber, and the working chamber is provided with a lifting mechanism. The lifting mechanism can collect garbage on the river surface. In this device, the garbage collected is simply sorted. A conveying mechanism is provided on the right side of the lifting mechanism, and a storage mechanism is provided on the lower side of the conveying mechanism. The storage mechanism includes the trapezoidal block. The storage frame between the right end surface and the right end wall of the working cavity. When there is too much waterweed in the storage frame, the device will stop working. The device is easy to operate, and the two devices are fixed at a certain position on both sides of the hull. Then, turn on the motor and start the boat.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 14, 2020Publication date: May 14, 2020Inventor: Guochen Qian
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Publication number: 20200148316Abstract: The invention discloses an automatic maintenance apparatus for cleanliness of river surface, which includes a processing device housing. The processing device housing is provided with a working chamber, and the working chamber is provided with a lifting mechanism. The lifting mechanism can collect garbage on the river surface. In this device, the garbage collected is simply sorted. A conveying mechanism is provided on the right side of the lifting mechanism, and a storage mechanism is provided on the lower side of the conveying mechanism. The storage mechanism includes the trapezoidal block. The storage frame between the right end surface and the right end wall of the working cavity. When there is too much waterweed in the storage frame, the device will stop working. The device is easy to operate, and the two devices are fixed at a certain position on both sides of the hull. Then, turn on the motor and start the boat.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 14, 2020Publication date: May 14, 2020Inventor: Guochen Qian
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Publication number: 20200148317Abstract: A method of determining the draft of a vessel comprising the steps of: measuring the draft of the vessel using at least one optical imaging device to provide optical draft measurement data; measuring the draft of the vessel using elevation data provided by at least one GNSS or GPS device so as to provide elevation draft measurement data; and using the elevation draft measurement data and the optical draft measurement data to determine the draft of the vessel.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 19, 2018Publication date: May 14, 2020Inventors: Troy Epskamp, En-Shan Looi, Jonathon Zeelenberg
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Publication number: 20200148318Abstract: The invention provides an anti-fouling lighting system (1) configured for preventing or reducing biofouling on a fouling surface (1201) of an object (1200), by providing an anti-fouling light (211) via an optical medium (220) to said fouling surface (1201), the anti-fouling lighting (1) system comprising: (a) a lighting module (200) comprising (i) a light source (210) configured to generate an anti-fouling light (211), and (ii) said optical medium (220) configured to receive at least part of the anti-fouling light (211), the optical medium (220) comprising an emission surface (222) configured to provide at least part of said anti-fouling light (211); and (b) a control system (300) configured to control an intensity of the anti-fouling light (211) as function of one or more of (i) a feedback signal related to a biofouling risk and (ii) a timer for time-based varying the intensity of the anti-fouling light (211).Type: ApplicationFiled: January 16, 2020Publication date: May 14, 2020Inventors: Bart Andre Salters, Roelant Boudewijn Hietbrink
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Publication number: 20200148319Abstract: A survival craft comprises a hull (10) formed from inflatable members (12, 13) and mounting a powered propulsion system (18, 19) for the survival craft. A superstructure (11) is mounted on the hull and formed from inflatable members (25, 26, 29a-29i) and a flexible roof (28) supported by the inflatable members (25, 26, 29a-29i). The superstructure provides the hull (10) with increased longitudinal rigidity that reduces the tendency of the hull (10) to bow longitudinally when the propulsion system (18, 19) is operating. The survival craft forms part of a marine escape system with the survival craft deflated and packed in a container including an inflation system for the survival craft. The system has a deployment system for amounting on a marine structure and carrying the container with the deployment system transferring the container from the structure to the water where the inflation system inflates the survival craft for access by persons.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 23, 2019Publication date: May 14, 2020Inventors: Damian Keown, Cyril Stocker, Richard McCormick, Iain McLean
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Publication number: 20200148320Abstract: An autonomous lifebuoy includes a body, an electric power supply, a propelling module and a control unit configured to control the autonomous lifebuoy so as to automatically guide the autonomous lifebuoy towards a person overboard in water, during a man overboard (MOB) situation. The control unit includes at least one communication module, a graphics processing unit (GPU) for comparing pre-recorded images of the autonomous lifebuoy itself and a person overboard, pre-recorded in non-volatile memory, with images received, by way of the at least one communication module, from at least one of a local area network (LAN), a camera and a smartphone camera, each in proximity of the autonomous lifebuoy and a microcomputer for making calculations, based on at least the image comparison of the graphics processing unit (GPU), and issue commands to at least the propelling module to propel the autonomous lifebuoy towards the person overboard in the water.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 14, 2020Publication date: May 14, 2020Applicant: Marine PV Technologies Ltd.Inventor: Gancho Mitev Mitev
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Publication number: 20200148321Abstract: Seismic autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) for recording seismic signals on the seabed. The AUV may be negatively buoyant and comprise an external body (which may be formed of multiple housings) that substantially encloses a plurality of pressure housings. Portions of the external body housing may be acoustically transparent and house one or more acoustic devices for the AUV. The AUV may comprise a main pressure housing that holds substantially all of the electronic components of the AUV, while a second and third pressure housing may be located on either side of the main pressure housing for other electronic components (such as batteries). A plurality of external devices (such as acoustic devices or thrusters) may be coupled to the main pressure housing by external electrical conduit. The AUV may comprise fixed or retractable wings for increased gliding capabilities during subsea travel.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 9, 2020Publication date: May 14, 2020Applicant: Seabed Geosolutions B.V.Inventors: Erwan Francois Marie Postic, Thierry Brizard
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Publication number: 20200148322Abstract: The invention comprises a paddle board apparatus and method of use thereof, comprising: a manual crank connected to a drive shaft, a rotatable housing, and a set of paddle wheels connected to an outer surface of the rotatable housing, where a child manually turning the crank simultaneously propels the paddle board forward in water through use of the paddle wheels and drives an air pump in the rotatable housing to blow bubbles about the paddle board for enjoyment of the child riding the paddle board.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 11, 2020Publication date: May 14, 2020Inventor: Merton W. Pekrul
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Publication number: 20200148323Abstract: An aquatic motor mounting system enables the adjustment of a boat motor with respect to its hull. The motor is attached to swivel mount that enables the motor to rotate about a first axis and pivot about a second axis generally perpendicular to the first. The system uses tongue and groove concepts to provide strength and durability while enabling the adjustment of the motor.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 14, 2019Publication date: May 14, 2020Inventor: William Matthew Caldwell
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Publication number: 20200148324Abstract: A craft having a source of deuterium-containing micro-fusion fuel particles is operable above a planetary, lunar or asteroid surface in the presence of ambient cosmic rays. The fuel particles are dispersible from a set of ports, where at least some of the ports are in an underside of the craft body and others are in lateral sides of the craft body. Dispersed fuel particles interact with ambient cosmic rays and muons to generate energetic reaction products, at least some which are then received by the underside of the craft to generate lift and also selected lateral sides of the craft to generate propulsive thrust in a desired lateral direction. The craft can carry tethers and winches to carry a payload above the surface from location to another. In another embodiment, a balloon-based design, such as a dirigible, provides primary buoyant lift, while the micro-fusion particles provide at least lateral thrust, and supplemental lift where needed.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 13, 2018Publication date: May 14, 2020Inventor: Jerome Drexler
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Publication number: 20200148325Abstract: The invention relates to a profiled structure, elongated in a direction in which the structure has a length (L1) exposed to an airflow (U), and transversely to which the structure has a leading edge (164) and/or a trailing edge (165), at least one of which is profiled and has, along said direction of elongation, geometric serration patterns (28) defined by a succession of peaks (30) and troughs (32). Along the profiled leading edge and/or trailing edge, the serration patterns (28) have a geometric pattern that is repeated in the direction of elongation (L1), the shape of which is stretched and/or contracted: transversely to the direction of elongation, and/or in the direction of elongation.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 18, 2019Publication date: May 14, 2020Inventors: Fernando GEA AGUILERA, Raphaël BARRIER, Mathieu Simon Paul GRUBER, Cyril POLACSEK, Hélène Dominique Jeanne POSSON
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Publication number: 20200148326Abstract: An example aircraft wing includes a first skin, a second skin opposite to the first skin, and a composite spar. The composite spar includes a double-flanged spar cap, a single-flanged spar cap, a spar web connecting the double-flanged spar cap and the single-flanged spar cap, and a tear strap. The double-flanged spar cap includes an inward-facing flange and a first outward-facing flange, and the inward-facing flange and the first outward-facing flange are integrated with the first skin during a co-curing process. The single-flanged spar cap includes a second outward-facing flange that is attached to the second skin. The tear strap is stitched to an inner side of the spar web along at least a portion of a length of the composite spar.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 8, 2018Publication date: May 14, 2020Inventors: Kim A. Linton, James P. Dobberfuhl, Jaime E. Baraja, Hsi-Yung T. Wu
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Publication number: 20200148327Abstract: A method of forming a hollow spar for an aerofoil includes forming a sandwich structure having a first structural layer, a second structural layer and a cellular core layer located in between the first structural layer and the second structural layer. At least part of the sandwich structure is removed at intervals corresponding to one or more corner locations, and the sandwich structure is folded at the one or more corner locations to define a hollow space and form the spar. A chordwise extending rib section for an aerofoil has a substantially planar web with a chordwise length; and a reinforcement strip attached to an edge of the web over substantially the majority of the chordwise length.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 20, 2018Publication date: May 14, 2020Inventors: Andrew Charles ELSON, Douglas CAMERON, Julian SPOONER
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Publication number: 20200148328Abstract: A method for manufacturing a wing box for aircraft comprises the steps of arranging, on a curing surface, a first panel of composite material, alternately arranging, on the first panel, along a transverse direction, a rib of non-polymerized composite material and a tool comprising a central part, a bottom part and a top part, wherein the central part of each tool is interposed between said bottom part and the top part and may be extracted in a transverse direction, arranging a second panel of composite material by putting said second panel in contact with the flanges of each rib, pulling out the central part of each tool along the transverse direction and removing the top part and the bottom part of each tool, and subjecting the first panel, the second panel, and each rib to a curing process in autoclave with vacuum bag.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 12, 2019Publication date: May 14, 2020Inventors: Gianni IAGULLI, Marco RAFFONE, Alberto RUSSOLILLO, Tommaso NANULA, Giuseppe TOTARO
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Publication number: 20200148329Abstract: The present invention provides an actuating system, comprising: a rotatable member rotatable relative to a fixed member; at least one actuator coupled to the rotatable member and to the fixed member; and a planar control surface coupled to the rotatable member such that the control surface extends perpendicularly from the periphery of the rotatable member wherein, in use, when a first actuator is in a first configuration the rotatable member is rotated such that the planar control surface is arranged in a first position, and when the first actuator is in a second configuration the rotatable member is rotated such that the planar control surface rotates about the central axis of the rotatable member to be arranged in a second position. The present invention also provides a vehicle and a part for a vehicle having the actuating system, as well as a method of actuating a control surface for a vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 6, 2018Publication date: May 14, 2020Applicant: BAE Systems plcInventor: Andrew Charles White
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Publication number: 20200148330Abstract: A rotary device assembly is provided and includes an input shaft coupled to a torque generating device, an output shaft and a rotary device disposed to transmit first torque from the input shaft to the output shaft and configured with no-back capability to prevent second torque applied to the output shaft from being transmitted to the input shaft in an event the second torque deceeds a torque-limiting threshold and the no-back capability and torsional lock-up capability to prevent an overload of the torque generating device in an event the second torque exceeds the torque-limiting threshold.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 22, 2019Publication date: May 14, 2020Inventor: Victor Barger
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Publication number: 20200148331Abstract: A wing for an aircraft includes: a main wing having an outer skin defining an interior space of the main wing, a slat, and a connection assembly for movably connecting the slat to the main wing, such that the slat is movable in a predefined motion between a retracted position and at least one extended position. The connection assembly includes an elongate and curved slat track, wherein a first end section of the slat track is connected to the slat, a first bearing at least partly arranged outside the interior space of the main wing, a second bearing spaced apart from the first bearing and arranged within the interior space of the main wing. The slat track is movably and rotatably supported on the main wing by the first and second bearing, such that the first and second bearing support the predefined motion.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 17, 2018Publication date: May 14, 2020Applicant: Airbus Operations GmbHInventor: Stefan Bensmann
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Publication number: 20200148332Abstract: An inboard beam includes a body having an upper flange and a lower flange coupled thereto. The upper flange includes a first upper inboard aperture and an upper outboard aperture formed therein. The lower flange includes a first lower inboard aperture and a lower outboard aperture formed therein. An upper beam fitting is coupled to the upper flange and lower beam fitting is coupled to the lower flange. The upper beam fitting includes a first upper inboard post. The upper beam fitting includes an upper outboard post extending parallel to the inboard post. The lower beam fitting includes a first lower inboard post. The lower beam fitting includes a lower outboard post extending parallel to the lower inboard post.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 8, 2018Publication date: May 14, 2020Applicant: Bell Helicopter Textron Inc.Inventors: Whitney Foskey, Kyle Thomas Cravener
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Publication number: 20200148333Abstract: Systems and methods relate to a vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) platform that can include a stator and a rotor magnetically levitated by the stator. The rotor and stator can be annular, such that the rotor rotates about a rotational axis. The stator can include magnets that provide guidance, levitation, and drive forces to drive the rotor, as well as to control operation of rotor blades of the rotor that can be independently rotated to specific pitch angles to control at least one of lift, pitch, roll, or yaw of the VTOL platform. Various controllers can be used to enable independent and redundant control of components of the VTOL platform.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 17, 2020Publication date: May 14, 2020Inventor: Ian Morris Randall
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Publication number: 20200148334Abstract: A trimmable horizontal stabiliser actuator (THSA) control system includes least one main THSA motor for driving the THSA in response to inputs from a flight control computer (FCC), a pilot trim control system for manual control of the THSA by a pilot overriding the FCC. The pilot trim control system comprises a trim control for receiving an input from the pilot, the trim control including a trim control sensor for detecting the input from the pilot and providing a pilot trim control signal; a THSA trim control motor for driving the THSA in response to the pilot trim control signal; and an electronic override system for giving inputs from the pilot priority over inputs from the FCC.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 28, 2019Publication date: May 14, 2020Inventor: Raphael MEDINA
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Publication number: 20200148335Abstract: A fluid control system includes a deformable surface that covers a body in at least a first and second direction. The first direction is orthogonal to the second direction. The deformable surface includes a bottom side that faces the body and a top side that is opposite the bottom side. The fluid control system also includes at least one deformer between the deformable surface and the body. The at least one deformer is configured to modify a boundary layer of a fluid that is flowing over the deformable surface by selectively deforming the top side of the surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 10, 2020Publication date: May 14, 2020Inventors: David William Wine, Roderick A. Hyde, Brian C. Holloway
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Publication number: 20200148336Abstract: According to one implementation, a landing gear of a rotorcraft includes two skid tubes and a cross tube. The cross tube couples the skid tubes to each other and attaches the skid tubes to a fuselage of the rotorcraft. At least a part of the cross tube is made of a composite material so that it becomes possible to achieve both sufficient absorption of energy and preventing the fuselage from coming into contact with a ground surface, at the time of landing the rotorcraft, under a more satisfactory condition. Further, according to one implementation, a rotorcraft includes the above-mentioned landing gear so that it becomes possible to achieve both sufficient absorption of energy and preventing a fuselage from coming into contact with a ground surface, at the time of landing the rotorcraft, under a more satisfactory condition.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 17, 2020Publication date: May 14, 2020Inventors: Kousaburou AKIBA, Iwao MURATA
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Publication number: 20200148337Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to the technical field of aircrafts, and provide an undercarriage and an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) having the undercarriage. The undercarriage includes a power assembly and an undercarriage body. The power assembly includes a connecting member and a drive apparatus for driving the connecting member to reciprocate. The undercarriage body includes a plurality of hinged connecting rods, the plurality of hinged connecting rods constituting at least one parallelogram mechanism, and projections of at least two of the hinged connecting rods on a side face of the fuselage are staggered. The undercarriage body is connected to the connecting member, and when the connecting member reciprocates, the undercarriage body is driven to be folded or unfolded.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 31, 2019Publication date: May 14, 2020Inventor: Feng NI
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Publication number: 20200148338Abstract: The utility model relates to an unmanned aerial vehicle and an undercarriage thereof. The undercarriage includes: a power assembly disposed within a fuselage, the power assembly including a first connecting member and a drive apparatus configured to drive the first connecting member to perform a reciprocating linear motion; and an undercarriage body connected to the power assembly, the undercarriage body including a first connecting rod hinged on the first connecting member, and a second connecting rod of which one end is hinged on the power assembly and the other end is hinged on the first connecting rod. When the first connecting member performs the reciprocating linear motion, the undercarriage body is driven to be unfolded or folded into the fuselage. The utility model further relates to an unmanned aerial vehicle. For the foregoing unmanned aerial vehicle and the undercarriage thereof, the power assembly may be used to drive the undercarriage body to switch between an unfolded state and a folded state.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 10, 2020Publication date: May 14, 2020Inventors: Feng NI, Xingwen Wu, Fei Dong
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Publication number: 20200148339Abstract: A method for securing an aircraft landing gear wheel drive actuator in an open position of the wheel, the drive actuator being movably mounted on the landing gear between said open position in which it is remote from the wheel and an engaged position in which it cooperates with the wheel to ensure its rotational drive, a displacement actuator being coupled to the drive actuator to move same between the two positions, and a locking member being provided to lock the drive actuator in the open position. The method includes holding the controlled displacement actuator to move the drive actuator to the open position, while the drive actuator is locked in the open position.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 13, 2019Publication date: May 14, 2020Applicant: SAFRAN LANDING SYSTEMSInventors: Pierre-Yves Liegeois, Bruno Thoraval
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Publication number: 20200148340Abstract: An oxidation protection system disposed on a substrate is provided, which may comprise a boron layer comprising a boron compound disposed on the substrate; a silicon layer comprising a silicon compound disposed on the boron layer; and at least one sealing layer comprising monoaluminum phosphate and phosphoric acid disposed on the silicon layer.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 14, 2018Publication date: May 14, 2020Applicant: GOODRICH CORPORATIONInventors: Steven A. Poteet, Gavin Charles Richards, Zachary Cohen
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Publication number: 20200148341Abstract: A signal line protection assembly of an aerial vehicle includes a foot stand and a protection sleeve. The foot stand includes a foot stand sleeve and a lower cover including an antenna compartment configured to receive an antenna of the aerial vehicle. The protection sleeve is configured to receive a signal line. At least a portion of the protection sleeve is received in the foot stand sleeve. The signal line includes a data line for the antenna.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 23, 2019Publication date: May 14, 2020Inventor: Di OU
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Publication number: 20200148342Abstract: Systems and methods relate to a vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) platform that can include a stator and a rotor magnetically levitated by the stator. The rotor and stator can be annular, such that the rotor rotates about a rotational axis. The stator can include magnets that provide guidance, levitation, and drive forces to drive the rotor, as well as to control operation of rotor blades of the rotor that can be independently rotated to specific pitch angles to control at least one of lift, pitch, roll, or yaw of the VTOL platform. Various controllers can be used to enable independent and redundant control of components of the VTOL platform.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 16, 2020Publication date: May 14, 2020Inventor: Ian Morris Randall
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Publication number: 20200148343Abstract: A propeller includes a blade. The blade includes a blade root, a blade tip disposed away from the blade root, a blade front surface, and a blade back surface. The blade also includes a front edge connecting a first side of each of the blade front surface and the blade back surface. The blade also includes a rear edge connecting a second side of each of the blade front surface and the blade back surface. The blade further includes a first suppression member formed by a portion of the front edge adjacent to the blade tip bending toward a first direction. The first direction is a direction from the front edge to the rear edge. The first suppression member is configured to suppress a spanwise air flow.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 15, 2020Publication date: May 14, 2020Inventors: Feng LIU, Shufeng ZHANG, Tao DENG, Peng CHEN
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Publication number: 20200148344Abstract: Methods and apparatus for vertical or short takeoff and landing, and operational control during flight. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises two or more counter driven rings with one or more airfoils attached. In one variant, there is an upper ring and a lower ring, each with multiple airfoils attached. In one variant, lift is generated largely via ambient air currents, allowing for long term on-station operation of the device. In another variant, a fuselage (or parts thereof) of the apparatus can be independently controlled, including for example as to attitude relative to other components of the craft.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 20, 2020Publication date: May 14, 2020Inventor: Raymond Don Hayden
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Publication number: 20200148345Abstract: One embodiment is an aircraft including at least one propulsion assembly; a cargo area for receiving payload to be transported by the aircraft; and a control system for determining characteristics of the received payload; automatically determining optimal control gains for operating the aircraft including the payload based on the determined payload characteristics; and providing control signals to at least one of the at least one propulsion assembly and a control assembly of the aircraft to control operation of the at least one propulsion assembly in accordance with the determined optimal control gains.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 13, 2018Publication date: May 14, 2020Inventors: John Robert Wittmaak, JR., Russell C. Peters, Andrew Vincent Louis