Aircraft Carried Patents (Class 239/171)
  • Patent number: 11691722
    Abstract: A multirotor aircraft 10 that is adapted for vertical take-off and landing, comprising a fuselage, a thrust producing units assembly that is provided for producing thrust in operation, and a forward-swept wing that comprises a portside half wing and a starboard side half wing. Each one of the portside and starboard side half wings comprises an inboard section that is connected to the fuselage and an outboard section that forms a wing tip. The inboard sections of the portside and starboard side half wings form a central wing region. The portside and starboard side half wings are respectively connected in the region of their wing tips to an associated outboard wing pod that supports at least two non-tiltably mounted thrust producing units of the thrust producing units assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2023
    Assignee: AIRBUS URBAN MOBILITY GMBH
    Inventors: Axel Fink, Uwe Kiesewetter, Klaus Kicker
  • Patent number: 11596138
    Abstract: The inventive aerial dispersal system comprises a pump assembly, a control box, an applicator assembly, a viscous pesticide tank assembly, and a means for connecting the aerial dispersal system to an airplane and is particularly useful for dispersing viscous pesticide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2023
    Assignee: Al's Aerial Spraying, LLC
    Inventor: Albert Edward Schiffer
  • Patent number: 11203428
    Abstract: A removable aerial application system and a method of installing the removable aerial application system in an aircraft such as a helicopter. In one embodiment, a removable aerial application system for an aircraft comprises: a tank insertable into a cabin of the aircraft; a first delivery conduit and a second delivery conduit, the first and second delivery conduits being in communication with the tank and extending aftward beneath a fuselage of the aircraft, a first auger within the first delivery conduit and a second auger within the second delivery conduit; a collector assembly defining a chamber, each of the first and second delivery conduits being in communication with the chamber; a distribution system coupled to the collector assembly; and a hydraulic system in mechanical communication with each of the first and second augers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2021
    Assignee: Airduce, LLC
    Inventor: Michael E. Steelman
  • Patent number: 11066167
    Abstract: An apparatus for biological control of agricultural pests and for reducing damage to crops. The apparatus includes a container for holding biological organisms or material. The container also includes first and second ends and an opening formed at the first end for receiving the biological organisms. The apparatus has a dispensing port disposed at the second end for dispensing the biological organisms over a target location. The apparatus further includes an auger, driven by a motor and having a plurality of spiral like wire brushes, said auger mounted to and driven by a first motor; a spreader motor mount having a motor mount holding area for holding a second motor, the spreader motor mount having a motor mount connection area for connecting to the second end; and a spreader agitating device used for spreading the biological organisms or material over the target location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2021
    Inventor: Chandler Bennett
  • Patent number: 10945424
    Abstract: Disclosed is a compact spraying module for spraying a liquid in the form of droplets for treating a target. The module includes a spraying unit including a nozzle containing at least one spraying member and a fan that is capable of generating a carrying air flow in the nozzle and of carrying the droplets originating from the member to the target. The module includes its own liquid supply system that and includes an electric pump, an electronic control and monitoring unit, a holder that keeps the pump near the spraying unit, an individual communication interface, and a power supply interface. Also disclosed is a system for spraying and controlling a plurality of such modules and to a method for controlling modules of such a system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2021
    Assignee: PELLENC (SOCIETE ANONYME)
    Inventors: Roger Pellenc, Jean-Marc Gialis
  • Patent number: 10808577
    Abstract: Drainage devices intended to prevent the reentry of drained fluids, the devices including a base having a contact surface for mounting over a drainage opening in an aerodynamic surface, a mast portion connected to the base and extending away from the contact surface of the base, and a top portion connected to the end of the mast portion, the top portion having a periphery that is greater than the periphery of the mast portion and including an exit port. The top portion may include a cantilevered fence portion extending upstream relative to the aerodynamic surface, and the drainage devices may be part of a system including a first opening and a second opening in the aerodynamic surface, the second opening upstream from the first opening, where a drainage device is mounted over the first opening and the cantilevered fence portion of the drainage device extends upstream toward the second opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2020
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Robert de Pau, Jr., Paul Brian Philipp, Samuel James Tutko, Fedor Kleshchev, Garrett Daniel Klovdahl
  • Patent number: 10688509
    Abstract: A control method for a two-component spray system having first and second pumps for separate fluid components includes registering a target spray pressure, registering a material-specific pressure factor margin, sensing an output pressure of the second pump, and identifying a failure condition in the event that the sensed output pressure remains further than the pressure factor margin from the target spray pressure for at least a threshold time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2020
    Assignee: Graco Minnesota Inc.
    Inventors: David L. Fehr, John R. Ingebrand, Dennis J. Van Keulen
  • Patent number: 10486831
    Abstract: An airborne drone training track includes both a ground track and a ceiling track. The ceiling track can be disposed above and be at least essentially aligned with the ground track. Airborne drone attachment tethers movably attach an airborne drone to each of these tracks. A lower airborne drone attachment tether movably attaches to the ground track and to a bottom portion of the airborne drone. A plurality of upper airborne drone attachment tethers movably attach to the ceiling track and to upper portions of the airborne drone. By one approach there is only one lower airborne drone attachment tether and four upper airborne drone attachment tethers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2019
    Assignee: Walmart Apollo, LLC
    Inventors: Donald R. High, Chandrashekar Natarajan, John P. Thompson, Michael D. Atchley
  • Patent number: 10393137
    Abstract: The variable pitch propeller assembly includes a hub. The variable pitch propeller assembly also includes a plurality of propeller blade assemblies spaced circumferentially about the hub. Each of the plurality of propeller blade assemblies configured to rotate a respective propeller blade. The variable pitch propeller assembly also includes a hydraulic fluid port assembly integrally formed and including at least three hydraulic fluid ports configured to receive respective flows of hydraulic fluid from a stationary hydraulic fluid transfer sleeve. The variable pitch propeller assembly also includes a pitch actuator assembly coupled in flow communication with at least three hydraulic fluid ports through respective hydraulic fluid transfer tubes. The pitch actuator coupled to the plurality of propeller blade assemblies to selectively control a pitch of the propeller blades. The pitch actuator assembly includes a travel stop configured to limit a rotation of at least one of the pitch actuator assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Daniel Alan Niergarth, Darek Tomasz Zatorski, Christopher James Kroger
  • Patent number: 10195622
    Abstract: A control method for a two-component spray system having first and second pumps for separate fluid components includes registering a target spray pressure, registering a material-specific pressure factor margin, sensing an output pressure of the second pump, and identifying a failure condition in the event that the sensed output pressure remains further than the pressure factor margin from the target spray pressure for at least a threshold time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: Graco Minnesota Inc.
    Inventors: David L. Fehr, John R. Ingebrand, Dennis J. Van Keulen
  • Patent number: 10150562
    Abstract: A hydraulically propelled drone is provided for delivering firefighting fluid to an elevated location. The drone comprises a housing having a primary inlet configured to receive the distal end of a fire hose, a primary outlet configured to receive the inlet end of a primary nozzle, a central passageway configured to conduct fluid from the primary inlet to the primary outlet, and at least one secondary outlet communicating with the central passageway. At least one lift nozzle communicates with the secondary outlet and is configured to direct fluid in a generally downward direction so as to produce an upward thrust on the drone housing, and at least one valve is contained within the housing and configured to control the flow of said fluid through the primary nozzle and the at least one lift nozzle nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2018
    Inventor: Kim F. Hein
  • Patent number: 10081426
    Abstract: A method, system, and/or computer program product ameliorates mosquito populations. A flying drone is deployed over an area. Sensor readings that identify a presence of water in the area are received, and one or more processors determine a confidence level L that the water in the area is stagnant water. The flying drone is then directed to perform an amelioration action against the mosquito larvae based a value of the determined confidence level L.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2018
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Michael S. Gordon, James R. Kozloski, Clifford A. Pickover, Justin D. Weisz
  • Patent number: 10017238
    Abstract: Stub for discharging drained fluids for a propulsion unit. The stub includes a cavity for storing the drained fluids and at least one orifice for discharging the fluids contained in the storage cavity, and elements for measuring a difference in pressure outside the stub and a member for draining the storage cavity. The member is able to move between a first position of closing the discharge orifice and a second position of releasing the orifice, and is configured so as to move from the first to the second position when the difference in pressure is greater than, or equal to, a predetermined value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2018
    Assignee: SNECMA
    Inventors: Alexandre Leon, Julien Pavillet, Julien Sayn-Urpar
  • Patent number: 9943387
    Abstract: Parasites are detected and ameliorative actions taken using unmanned aerial vehicles equipped with sensors and equipment for dispensing treatment materials. Physical characteristic data obtained by the sensors is supplemented using a risk management module that increases the confidence level that the diagnosis of a particular parasite on an animal is correct. The risk management module may further be used to assess additional factors, such as the potential harm in applying a selected treatment, in the decision of whether or not to take ameliorative action.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2018
    Assignee: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Simone Fobi, Clifford A. Pickover, Komminist Sisai Weldemariam
  • Patent number: 9932961
    Abstract: A wind power generator having blades which are detachably mounted on a hub whereby the blades can be easily and efficiently removed and replaced as necessary.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Inventor: Jeremy W. Gorman
  • Patent number: 9914000
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an aerial fire-fighting bucket. The bucket includes a base plate and a valve arrangement including at least one valve and a liner actuator. The base plate includes at least one aperture and the valve is arranged to block the aperture in a closed position and to allow fluid to pass from within the bucket through the aperture when in an open position. The valve is arranged to be moved by the linear actuator generally transversely across an upper face of the base plate between the closed position and the open position of the valve to progressively reveal the aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: AERIAL FIRE CONTROL PTY LTD
    Inventor: Christopher Black
  • Patent number: 9862475
    Abstract: A drainage end cap device for draining fluid from a hollow space in a vehicle, comprising a mounting unit that is durably mountable in a super-imposed manner onto a drainage opening provided in an outer shell of a vehicle, wherein a drainage cap with a drainage channel is provided, the drainage cap being removably mountable to the mounting unit and the drainage channel being at least partly zigzagged over a longitudinal extension of the drainage cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2018
    Assignee: Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Helmut Fietz, Kaspar Von-Wilmowsky, Frank Singer
  • Patent number: 9856020
    Abstract: A method, system, and/or computer program product ameliorates mosquito populations. A flying drone is deployed over an area. Sensor readings that identify a presence of water in the area are received, and one or more processors determine a confidence level L that the water in the area is stagnant water. The processor(s) also determine a risk R of mosquito larvae being present in the stagnant water based on the confidence level L. The flying drone is then directed to perform an amelioration action against the mosquito larvae based on the values of L and R.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Michael S. Gordon, James R. Kozloski, Clifford A. Pickover, Justin D. Weisz
  • Patent number: 9764839
    Abstract: A tethered unmanned aerial vehicle firefighting system includes a firefighting drone, a lifting drone and a tether line coupling the firefighting drone to a control station through the lifting drone. The control station includes a control unit for controlling the firefighting drone and the lifting drone, a fire retardant supply, a pump coupled to the fire retardant supply, and a power supply. The tether line includes a power line coupling the power source to and powering the firefighting drone and a fire retardant hose coupled between the pump and a nozzle carried by the firefighting drone. A lifting tower hold the tether from the control station at a height above ground level, and the lifting drone maintains the tether above obstruction for the firefighter drone. The firefighter drone disperses fire retardant from the nozzle for firefighting purposes and with a substantially unlimited supply of retardant and power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2017
    Inventors: Todd Michael Whitaker, Michael Corson
  • Patent number: 9731153
    Abstract: When distribution material is distributed over a target site on a ground surface from an aircraft, a distribution supporting apparatus offers support information to a pilot dropping the distribution material to efficiently distribute the distribution material. The distribution supporting apparatus includes: an input section to which information items on at least an aircraft velocity, an aircraft altitude, and a wind velocity are input; a computation section configured to compute a location at which the distribution material dropped from the aircraft arrives on the ground surface and a density distribution of the distribution material on the ground surface based on the information items input to the input section; and a display control section configured to display, on a display, the support information relating to the location and density distribution computed by the computation section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2017
    Assignees: ShinMaywa Industries, Ltd., Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency
    Inventors: Yushi Goda, Tsubasa Yamada, Masatoshi Arimoto, Shinji Tagawa, Taiki Nakaie, Jun Adachi, Takeshi Ito, Koji Muraoka, Kohei Funabiki, Yuichi Matsuo
  • Patent number: 9567979
    Abstract: A method may involve transmitting power between a tethered aerial vehicle equipped with wind turbines for generating power and a ground station configured to interconnect the generated power to an electrical distribution network. The power may be transmitted using high voltage, high frequency AC electrical signals, and transformers at the ground station and the aerial vehicle can scale the AC voltage for use at the respective locations. Converters at the ground station and the aerial vehicle can then convert the transformed voltage to DC. The AC voltage may be transmitted through the tether at a resonant frequency of the tether based in part on an internal capacitance between multiple conductive paths on the tether.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2017
    Assignee: X Development LLC
    Inventors: Andrew Goessling, Leo Casey
  • Patent number: 9540105
    Abstract: An aircraft for distributing granular material on a target area is provided. The aircraft includes an electric sifter, which includes a motor to distribute the granular material on the target area and a screen on the bottom surface of the electric sifter. The screen allows the granular material to pass through the screen to the target area. The aircraft also includes a circuit to activate the motor, one or more power sources to power the motor and the circuit, and an interface for an operator to control the circuit. The granular material is stored in the electric sifter. The operator manipulates the interface to signal the circuit to activate the motor. The electric sifter distributes the granular material when the motor is activated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2017
    Inventor: Michael Beaugavin Markov
  • Patent number: 9452833
    Abstract: A drainage mast able to drain effectively the liquid contained in the compartment of an aircraft when the pressure within the compartment is lower than the outside pressure without using any pressure control active device and without causing any significant perturbation to the aerodynamic behavior of the aircraft. The drainage mast is configured with a cross section area decreasing from its entry section to the compartment to its outlet section and is disposed at an acute angle ? relative to the compartment in the airflow direction. The entry and outlet sections have two perpendicular symmetry axes of different length, the entry section is arranged with its longer axis of symmetry substantially parallel to the airflow direction. The drainage mast has a symmetrical configuration with respect to a plane substantially perpendicular to the fuselage envelope passing through the longer axis of symmetry of the entry section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2016
    Assignee: Airbus Operations S.L.
    Inventors: Carlos Casado Montero, Jose Angel Hernanz Manrique, Jose Grana Otero, Ignacio Esteban Parra Fabian, Miguel Angel Gallego Lorenzo
  • Patent number: 9386738
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a method for controlling operation of a machine, the method comprising: scanning a smart label, the smart label affixed to a container containing a composition to be applied by the machine; automatically adjusting controls of the machine based on information contained in the smart label; and causing application of the composition from the machine to a field according to the adjusted controls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: AGCO CORPORATION
    Inventors: John Peterson, David John Ringeisen
  • Patent number: 9321520
    Abstract: A drainage mast for draining liquids from an APU compartment of an aircraft with a first end connected to the APU compartment and a second end for discharging the liquids to the atmosphere. The drainage mast is configured with at least a sector having decreasing cross section areas towards the second end. The area of the initial cross section of the sector is lesser than the area of any cross section of the drainage mast closer to the first end. The invention also refers to an aircraft comprising the drainage mast.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Airbus Operations S.L.
    Inventors: Jose Grana Otero, Ignacio Esteban Parra Fabian, Carlos Casado Montero
  • Patent number: 9315253
    Abstract: A drain mast includes a first fairing body defining a first fairing wall and a first drain portion. A second fairing body defines a second fairing wall and a second drain portion. The first and second fairing bodies are joined together as a fairing with the first and second fairing walls as opposed exterior fairing walls, and with the first and second drain portions joined to form a drain passage through the fairing from a drain passage inlet to a drain passage outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2016
    Assignee: Goodrich Corporation
    Inventors: Charles A. Lee, Kyle H. Deiwert, Michael J. Giamati
  • Patent number: 9227726
    Abstract: A method comprises continuously discharging a persistent vapor of bird repellant from a non-propulsion apparatus on a flying aircraft into an elevated airspace to substantially cover a runway flight path corridor at a commercial airport to prevent birds from striking subsequent aircraft in the corridor. The discharging automatically begins from a runway at the airport and automatically ends when the corridor is substantially covered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2016
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Kelly L. Boren
  • Patent number: 9192947
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for aerial chemical trimming of vegetation, the apparatus including an elongated boom suspended from an aircraft, a plurality of nozzles aligned vertically along one side of the boom, and a reservoir and pump coupled to a lower end of the boom for supplying an herbicide through the boom to the plurality of nozzles. In use, the boom is positioned alongside a row of vegetation to be trimmed and the herbicide is pumped from the reservoir, through the boom, to the nozzles and sprayed directly onto the vegetation. The boom is then moved along the row of vegetation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2015
    Assignee: Rotor Blade, LLC
    Inventors: Ashley Haddock, Dargan Haddock
  • Patent number: 8967029
    Abstract: A device for the aerial release of mosquitoes includes an unmanned aerial vehicle operable by remote control. It carries a container holding a central processing unit and a mosquito breeding bin, which is a self-contained volume housing mosquitoes and a mosquito food having a toxin suitable to be transmitted by mosquito bite after the mosquito consumes the mosquito food. A release tube is connected to the mosquito breeding bin and sized to release mosquitoes from the mosquito breeding bin. A valve is connected to the release tube and is operable by remote control so that when opened, the mosquitoes have an open pathway out of the container through the release tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: TMARS Associates, Trustee for Toxic mosquito aerial release system CRT Trust
    Inventor: S. Mill Calvert
  • Patent number: 8950696
    Abstract: An apparatus for spraying and inducing an electrostatic charge upon a liquid in excess of 0.8 millicoloumb/kilogram is connectable to a boom fitted to a vehicle, such as an aircraft, having a dc power supply. The apparatus comprises a nozzle constructed from a substantially non-conductive material and includes a spray tip designed to provide a hollow conical spray pattern. A support member extends from the nozzle and supports a charging electrode for inducing an electrostatic charge upon the liquid sprayed through the nozzle. The charging electrode attaches to the support member and is electrically connectable to the dc power supply. The charging electrode includes a cylindrical portion and a plurality of corona discharge members extending inwardly from a distal end of the cylindrical portion adjacent to the spray tip. The charging electrode is positioned to permit the hollow conical spray pattern to pass unhindered therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: Johnson Airspray, Inc.
    Inventor: George N. Massey
  • Patent number: 8820421
    Abstract: The various embodiments herein provide a system and method for fire extinguishing in forests. The fire extinguishing system herein includes a first storage tank, a second storage tank, a first fire extinguishing element, a second fire extinguishing element, a cover provided on top side of the first storage tank, a compressed air inlet, an air regulator, one or more hosing hasps, one or more tarpaulin hoses, one or more hooks, one or more clips and locks, a nozzle attached to a bottom side of the tank and a pipe to lead compressed air to nozzle. In the first stage the helicopter carries the sand tank from the station/depot to the firing woods and starts bombarding the sand around and top of the fire and a second helicopter carries the water tank from the station to the top of the bombarded flames and starts spraying water before the flame starts again.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Inventor: Naser Rahgozar
  • Patent number: 8820422
    Abstract: An aerial retardant delivery system comprising a retardant tank mountable in the fuselage of an aircraft. The tank includes a pressure opening in fluid communication with the fuselage such that pressure in the fuselage may act on retardant contained in the tank. The tank includes an outlet extending through a sidewall of the aircraft's fuselage, through which retardant may be delivered to a target. The system also includes a discharge gate operative to open and close the outlet. An actuation mechanism is disposed on the exterior of the tank and operatively coupled to the at least one discharge gate. A variable flow controller controls the discharge gate open position in order to provide retardant over a desired area of terrain. A one-way flapper is disposed in the pressure opening and is operative to allow pressure in the fuselage to enter the tank while inhibiting retardant from spilling from the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Inventor: Leonard K. Parker
  • Publication number: 20140239085
    Abstract: A system for simulating wet runway conditions by using a liquid container that is placed inside an aircraft. The liquid container is connected to a nozzle that sprays water in front of the wheels of the aircraft. A valve is used to control the flow of water from the nozzle. Systems, such as the braking system of the aircraft, can then be tested in wet runway conditions simulated by the system. The amount of water sprayed from the nozzle can also be electronically controlled in relation to the speed of the aircraft, such that the nozzle sprays a nearly uniform layer of liquid in front of the wheels. The system can also be modified to include two tanks to manipulate the center of gravity of the aircraft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2014
    Publication date: August 28, 2014
    Applicant: Textron Innovations, Inc.
    Inventor: Gary E. McKay
  • Patent number: 8800675
    Abstract: A fire extinguisher device for aircraft has a hanger structure and a reservoir of extinguishing agent, the aforementioned reservoir being hung beneath the aforementioned hanger structure by metal fittings held by fasteners to the aforementioned hanger structure. The aforementioned extinguisher wherein the reservoir has means of suspension and the hanger structure has carriers complementary to the means of suspension, the aforementioned means of suspension and the aforementioned carriers being such that when the fasteners are withdrawn, the reservoir is in a position called the “intermediate position,” in which the metal fittings are free and the reservoir is suspended by interaction of the means of suspension and the carriers. The disclosed embodiments also relate to a method for fastening such an extinguishing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: Airbus Operations SAS
    Inventors: Stephane Machado, Frederic Rossi, Julien Cayssials, Nicolas Voyer
  • Patent number: 8757551
    Abstract: A foreign object damage protection system comprises a sensor for detecting a foreign object, a fluid in a reservoir, a means for dispensing the fluid, the means for dispensing the fluid in communication with the reservoir, and a control unit, whereby when the sensor detects a foreign object, the control unit causes fluid to be dispensed from the reservoir through the means for dispensing and towards the foreign object. The sensor is attachable to one or more locations on an aircraft, such as a wing, nose, windshield, fuselage or tail. The sensor can be a radar sensor, weather radar sensor, weather radar sensor modified to detect objects at short ranges, infra-red sensor, forward-looking infrared sensor, a light detection and ranging sensor, motion sensor, thermal sensor, or video sensor. The system provides a way to protect an aircraft from striking foreign objects, such as birds, in the path of the aircraft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Inventor: Zamir Margalit
  • Publication number: 20140145007
    Abstract: A spreader for an aircraft comprises a throat assembly operable to couple to a gatebox, the throat assembly comprising an air intake portion operable to direct airflow into the spreader, a material intake portion operable to receive material released from a gatebox, a fan assembly comprising a plurality of vanes that divide the fan assembly into a plurality of compartments, wherein the vanes are comprised of molded material, and a connection mechanism operable to couple the fan assembly to the throat assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2012
    Publication date: May 29, 2014
    Inventor: Larry D. Thompson
  • Patent number: 8713987
    Abstract: A system for simulating wet runway conditions by using a liquid container that is placed inside an aircraft. The liquid container is connected to a nozzle that sprays water in front of the wheels of the aircraft. A valve is used to control the flow of water from the nozzle. Systems, such as the braking system of the aircraft, can then be tested in wet runway conditions simulated by the system. The amount of water sprayed from the nozzle can also be electronically controlled in relation to the speed of the aircraft, such that the nozzle sprays a nearly uniform layer of liquid in front of the wheels. The system can also be modified to include two tanks to manipulate the center of gravity of the aircraft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Textron Innovations Inc.
    Inventor: Gary E. McKay
  • Patent number: 8640782
    Abstract: An aerial retardant delivery system comprising a retardant tank mountable in the fuselage of an aircraft. The tank includes a pressure opening in fluid communication with the fuselage such that pressure in the fuselage may act on retardant contained in the tank. The tank includes an outlet extending through a sidewall of the aircraft's fuselage, through which retardant may be delivered to a target. The system also includes a discharge gate operative to open and close the outlet. An actuation mechanism is disposed on the exterior of the tank and operatively coupled to the at least one discharge gate. A variable flow controller controls the discharge gate open position in order to provide retardant over a desired area of terrain. A one-way flapper is disposed in the pressure opening and is operative to allow pressure in the fuselage to enter the tank while inhibiting retardant from spilling from the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Inventor: Leonard K. Parker
  • Patent number: 8579234
    Abstract: A system for affixing a gatebox to an aircraft includes a first type of gatebox operable to release material from an aircraft, a second type of gatebox operable to release material from the aircraft, a frame coupled to the aircraft operable to receive a selected one of the first type of gatebox and the second type of gatebox; and a plurality of fastenings operable to secure the selected one of the first type of gatebox and the second type of gatebox to the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Texas Transland LLC
    Inventor: Larry D. Thompson
  • Patent number: 8453753
    Abstract: Firefighting bucket (11) suspended from an aircraft by lines (15), has open top (12A) and a valve at base (13). The valve is attachable to the aircraft by remotely actuatable line (16) and independent movement of lines (15-16) may utilize the weight of the water to facilitate opening and closing of the valve. Dynamic sensing of a bucket attribute, e.g. weight, enables bucket (11) to be filled or discharged by a pre-determined volume by the pilot. Chemical fire retardant may be added by entraining it with water discharging from the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: Donmark Holdings Inc.
    Inventors: Geoff Hall, Mark Robertson
  • Patent number: 8371392
    Abstract: The invention provides a fire extinguishing apparatus. The fire extinguishing apparatus includes a holding unit for holding various components of the fire extinguishing apparatus. The fire extinguishing apparatus also includes one or more tubes which are operatively coupled to the holding unit. The one or more tubes are capable of rotating with respect to the holding unit, such that an axis of rotation of a tube is angled at a predetermined angle to the earth surface. Further, each tube of the one or more tubes includes one or more nozzles for dispersing a fire extinguishing fluid to a location of the fire. The fire extinguishing fluid is supplied to the one or more tubes through a fluid supplying unit. The fluid supplying unit and the one or more tubes are held together by the holding unit in a suspended manner above the location of the fire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: King Abdul Aziz City for Science and Technology (KACST)
    Inventor: Mazen A. Ba-abbad
  • Publication number: 20120280054
    Abstract: This invention relates to the means that allows helicopters and Transport Aircrafts to carry or lift liquid compounds to fumigate, spray or a single massive drop for the purposes such as irrigation, chemical treatment and fire control with no modification to the aircrafts thus preserving the original integrity and applications of the aircraft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2011
    Publication date: November 8, 2012
    Inventor: Julio Gomez
  • Publication number: 20120160964
    Abstract: Embodiments of methods, apparatuses, and systems associated with producing and distributing one or more radiative forcing agents to Earth's atmosphere are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2012
    Publication date: June 28, 2012
    Inventor: Robert Theodore Jenkins
  • Publication number: 20120067973
    Abstract: This disclosure is directed to apparatuses, systems, and methods associated with the aerial delivery of materials in a manner that is inexpensive, accurate, efficient, and effective. More specifically this disclosure teaches deploying an aerial delivery container holding some material from an aircraft and releasing the material from the aerial delivery container, all in a controlled manner, while the aerial delivery container is airborne. With reference to the exemplary embodiments, the apparatuses, systems and methods of the present disclosure are taught within the context of releasing a firefighting suppressant over a fire.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2011
    Publication date: March 22, 2012
    Inventors: William Worden Cleary, John A. Skorupa, Ty F. Bonnar
  • Patent number: 8079551
    Abstract: An enhanced aerial delivery system addresses issues raised when large quantities of fluids, powders, and other agent materials are to be transported in and aerially dispersed by aircraft. Some aspects include positioning and securing of tanks aboard the aircraft to facilitate management and safety of the tanks and aircraft. Other aspects address coupling of the tanks and associated piping to lessen structural effects upon the aircraft. Further aspects deal with channeling, containing, and dumping stray agent materials that have escaped from the agent tanks on board the aircraft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Assignee: Evergreen International Aviation, Inc.
    Inventors: John C. Hale, Christopher B. Harris, William D. McCune
  • Patent number: 8066223
    Abstract: An enhanced aerial delivery system addresses issues raised when large quantities of fluids, powders, and other agent materials are to be transported in and aerially dispersed by aircraft. Some aspects include positioning and securing of tanks aboard the aircraft to facilitate management and safety of the tanks and aircraft. Other aspects address coupling of the tanks and associated piping to lessen structural effects upon the aircraft. Further aspects deal with channeling, containing, and dumping stray agent materials that have escaped from the agent tanks on board the aircraft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Assignee: Evergreen International Aviation, Inc.
    Inventors: John C. Hale, Christopher B. Harris, William D. McCune
  • Patent number: 7992647
    Abstract: The instant invention relates to a fire extinguishing apparatus. Particularly to an apparatus that includes at least one container that includes a fire retardant gel. The gel is formed from dehydrated superabsorbent polymer and water. The pre filled containers include at least one control valve or frangible portion to release the fire retardant to extinguish the fire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Assignee: GelTech Solutions, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter Cordani
  • Patent number: 7819362
    Abstract: An enhanced aerial delivery system addresses issues raised when large quantities of fluids, powders, and other agent materials are to be transported in and aerially dispersed by aircraft. Some aspects include positioning and securing of tanks aboard the aircraft to facilitate management and safety of the tanks and aircraft. Other aspects address coupling of the tanks and associated piping to lessen structural effects upon the aircraft. Further aspects deal with channeling, containing, and dumping stray agent materials that have escaped from the agent tanks on board the aircraft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Assignee: Evergreen International Aviation, Inc.
    Inventors: John C. Hale, Christopher B. Harris, William D. McCune
  • Patent number: 7753314
    Abstract: Aerial dispersion systems that may be employed to allow rapid and temporary conversion of aircraft for aerial dispersion purposes, such as aerial fire-fighting. The aerial dispersion systems may be implemented using modular components that may be configured for compatibility with conventional cargo loading and unloading systems of modern aircraft, including side-loading cargo systems of wide body passenger and cargo aircraft having high lift capacities. The aerial dispersion systems may be rapidly installed in a large fleet of high capacity aircraft in response to a wildfire or other rapidly-developing emergency such as an oil spill, chemical or biological contamination incident, building or refinery fire, etc. After use, the aircraft of the fleet may be rapidly de-modified and returned to original condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Assignee: L-3 Communications Integrated Systems, L.P.
    Inventor: Brooks R. Nolan
  • Patent number: 7735752
    Abstract: An improved system for controlled aerial distribution of substances such as chemicals upon crops in a select field, including coordinating the simultaneous independent application of two different substances. The system may include a pair of sub-systems, one of which includes a computer controlling a variable flow valve capable of varying the release of a substance from the first subsystem. There may also be a second subsystem having a pump activated by a lever that also opens and closes the fluid communication of the first subsystem, in this basic version of the invention, manually positioning the lever to open the spray valve also commences continuous release of a second substance from the second subsystem at a constant rate, until the lever is positioned to close the first fluid communication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Inventors: Harvey E. Songer, Casey L. Couch