Airships Patents (Class 244/30)
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Patent number: 8286909Abstract: Systems, method, devices and apparatus are provided for reducing drag and increasing the flight efficiency characteristics of aircraft and airships including hybrid aircraft utilizing distributed boundary layer control and propulsion devices. Boundary layer control includes passive systems such as riblet films and boundary layer propulsion devices having a divided and distributed propulsion system disposed in the curved aft sections of aircraft and airships including hybrid aircraft susceptible to boundary layer drag due to degree of curvatures, speed and density of the surrounding air. Distributed propulsion devices include constructing propellers and riblets from shape memory alloys, piezoelectric materials and electroactive polymer (EAP) materials to change the shape and length of the distributed propulsion device.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2008Date of Patent: October 16, 2012Assignee: StratoComm CorporationInventor: Yee-Chun Lee
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Publication number: 20120248241Abstract: An airship is provided. The airship includes a hull configured to contain a gas, at least one propulsion assembly coupled to the hull and including a propulsion device, and at least one aerodynamic component including a plurality of fairing structures including one or more slats, wherein the at least one aerodynamic component is associated with the hull and is configured to direct airflow around the airship.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 26, 2012Publication date: October 4, 2012Inventor: John Goelet
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Publication number: 20120244779Abstract: The present invention enhances the optical features of aerostats. The invention utilizes a barrier film having at least one layer containing optically enhancing elements. Aerostats formed from the barrier film possess unique aesthetic features.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 2, 2010Publication date: September 27, 2012Inventors: Jeffrey Jacob Cernohous, Neil R. Granlund, Kent Kaske, Adam R. Pawloski
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Publication number: 20120241554Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for transporting and dispersing solid particles into the earth's stratosphere, comprising a conduit connecting a substantially ground level location to an elevated location, a particle transport means, and a deagglomeration means coupled with a dispersal means, wherein the deagglomeration means and dispersal means are located at an elevated location, and to a method of transporting particles of high refractive index into the stratosphere as well as to an aircraft and to a cloud thus formed.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 15, 2010Publication date: September 27, 2012Applicant: Davidson Technology LimitedInventors: Peter Davidson, Hugh Edmund Murray Hunt, Christopher John Burgoyne
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Publication number: 20120234964Abstract: In one example, a long endurance airship system includes a first combined airship with a payload airship and a first logistics airship. The first combined airship is configured for stationkeeping at a predetermined station during meteorological conditions with wind speeds below a predetermined threshold. The airship system also includes a second combined airship which is a reconfiguration of the first combined airship and includes the payload airship and a second logistics airship. The second combined airship is configured for stationkeeping at the predetermined station in all meteorological conditions, including meteorological conditions with wind speeds above the predetermined threshold.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 15, 2011Publication date: September 20, 2012Inventor: Stephen Heppe
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Patent number: 8267348Abstract: Unmanned aircraft used as a platform for telecommunication or other scientific purposes at a predetermined altitude in the stratosphere. The unmanned aircraft includes a pressurized balloon filled with gas and that supports the platform. The pressurized balloon is arranged within an outer balloon provided with an aerodynamic external shape in the stratosphere and forms a low-pressure or high-pressure insulating chamber around the pressurized balloon. A heating and cooling system circulates medium in the insulating chamber and electrically driven propellers are located outside the outer balloon to maintain the position of the platform relative to the Earth. The negative effects that extreme differences in temperature have on the gas pressure in the pressurized balloon are thus largely cancelled such that the pressurized balloon can be made of a lighter and cheaper material and the service life thereof is effectively extended.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2005Date of Patent: September 18, 2012Inventor: Kamal Alavi
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Publication number: 20120223181Abstract: Lighter-than-air systems, methods, and kits for obtaining aerial images are described. For example, various methods for determining planned ascent, drift, and/or descent of a lighter-than-air system are described. In addition, various structural arrangements of lighter-than-air systems for accomplishing planned ascent, drift, and/or descent and obtaining aerial images are described.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 27, 2012Publication date: September 6, 2012Inventor: John Ciampa
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Publication number: 20120212228Abstract: Disclosed are a portable unmanned airship for magnetic survey and a magnetic survey system using the same. The portable unmanned airship includes a fuselage using buoyancy of gas and propelled by motive power of the fuselage itself; an auto-flight unit automatically guiding the fuselage; a magnetometer disposed in the fuselage and measuring magnetic force of a stratum or a surface of the earth; a wireless communication unit transmitting magnetic data obtained by the magnetometer outside; and a control module controlling operations of the auto-flight unit and the magnetometer. With this configuration, it is possible to increase total operation time and a payload capacity of the unmanned airship.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 29, 2009Publication date: August 23, 2012Applicant: KOREA INSTITUTE OF GEOSCIENCE & MINERAL RESOURCESInventors: Seong-Jun Cho, Jong-Sou Park, Gye-Soon Park
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Patent number: 8245966Abstract: A propulsion unit for an airship comprises a driveshaft, having a gimbal mount to a mounting frame attachable to a fuselage, the gimbal being mounted in the mounting frame and comprising an inner ring and an outer ring having orthogonal rotational axes, the inner ring including a propeller unit having a conical housing pivotable on trunnions with the gimbal and a propeller affixed to a propeller shaft coaxial with the axis of the conical housing. The outer ring includes a toroidal Orientation of the conical housing and propeller shaft is accomplished by actuators, a first actuator controlling the angle of the outer ring relative to the framework and a second actuator controlling the angle of the conical housing relative to the outer ring.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2010Date of Patent: August 21, 2012Assignee: 21st Century Airship Technologies Inc.Inventor: Hokan S. Colting
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Publication number: 20120199693Abstract: The invention relates to an airship including a flexible envelope having no rigid inner structure containing a gas that is lighter than air, and a gondola. The balloon also includes three legs for setting the balloon on the surface and a landing structure. Said landing structure is located on the outside of the envelope, and provides a connection between the legs, the gondola and the envelope while surrounding the envelope.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 12, 2010Publication date: August 9, 2012Applicant: A-NTE(Aero-Nautic Technology & Engineering)Inventors: Baptiste Regas, Olivier Jozan
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Publication number: 20120168555Abstract: The invention relates to an autonomous stratospheric aircraft which is lighter than air, and to a method for providing radio and optical communication, television broadcasting and monitoring with the aid of communication equipment arranged on the aircraft. The present invention can be used for producing lighter-than-air aircraft as well as global and regional communication and television broadcasting and multi-aspect monitoring systems and networks.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 29, 2010Publication date: July 5, 2012Inventors: Andrei Yurievich Shcherbakov, Malakhov Sergei Valentinovich
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Publication number: 20120138733Abstract: A high-altitude aerial vehicle, in particular an aerial vehicle for the stratosphere that is designed as a non-rigid aerial vehicle with a hull, that has an at least partially inflated envelope with a buoyant gas other than air, which is lighter than air, in particular hydrogen. The hull is provided with at least a first chamber for the buoyant gas and at least a second chamber that can be inflated with air. Between the first and second chambers a flexible partition wall is provided that is preferably formed by a flexible membrane. Inflating of the second chamber, preferably with hot air depending on the flight altitude, can be controlled or regulated in such a way that the envelope of hull is always tautly inflated.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 2, 2011Publication date: June 7, 2012Applicant: EADS Deutschland GmbHInventors: Manfred Hiebl, Hans-Wolfgang Pongratz
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Patent number: 8191819Abstract: A suspended load-bearing structure that is formed by pneumatic structural load-bearing elements comprising an elongate hollow body, compression bars, and traction elements. The hollow body is impinged upon by gases that are lighter than air. In a first embodiment, an individual suspended structural load-bearing element is used as a ridge beam of a large tent hall whose interior has no pillars. The roof is formed by a waterproof cover, the sides of which are stretched on pillars. The cover and the structural load-bearing element are anchored to the ground by means of anchoring ropes.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2004Date of Patent: June 5, 2012Assignee: Prospective Concepts AGInventor: Rolf Luchsinger
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Patent number: 8177161Abstract: An air vehicle includes a bag skirt extendable along a portion of a hull of the air vehicle. The bag skirt is inflatable to provide an air cushion during touchdown and deflatable during flight of the air vehicle. The air vehicle also includes a cover roller adjacent the bag skirt, and a cover portion coupled to the cover roller. The cover roller is operable between exposed position and unexposed positions to expose and hide the bag skirt with the cover portion. The cover roller includes an extensible shaft and a pad securely wrapped around the extensible shaft. The extensible shaft is capable of being rotated along a shaft axis. One end of the extensible shaft is pivotally coupled to the hull by an anchor. A circumference of the cover roller is configured as a function of a distance between the exposed and the unexposed positions.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2011Date of Patent: May 15, 2012Assignee: Lockheed Martin CorporationInventors: John P. Morehead, Douglas H. Greiner, Renee Pasman, Robert R. Boyd
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Patent number: 8177159Abstract: A rescue aircraft having a rigid body with gas-filled envelopes and propulsion devices located inside rotatable aerodynamic toroidal modules. A longitudinal through passage in the lower part of the aircraft connects a crew cabin, a cargo-and-passenger compartment, fuel tanks, and accessories. The aircraft has exit hatches, mooring devices, and a gangway with railings and a removable cart. The aircraft also has a cross passage with exits onto its wings and a vertical passage with a pulley and other devices for lowering and lifting people and cargo. The lower part of the aircraft and hollow wings are filled with a foamed plastic for buoyancy and strength.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2009Date of Patent: May 15, 2012Inventors: Boris V. Khakimov, Alexandr N. Chernikov, German V. Demidov, Rustem Z. Khamitov
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Patent number: 8167246Abstract: A tethering system for controlling an inflatable airfoil is provided. The inflatable airfoil has a horizontal center line and a vertical center line. The tethering system includes an airfoil wing secured to the inflatable airfoil. A first forward attachment ring is secured to the inflatable airfoil. A second forward attachment ring is secured to the inflatable airfoil. A rear attachment ring is secured to the inflatable airfoil. A center attachment ring is secured to the inflatable airfoil. A first airfoil reinforcement strap is secured between the first forward attachment ring and the center attachment ring. A second airfoil reinforcement strap extends between the second forward attachment ring and the center attachment ring. A third airfoil reinforcement strap extends between the rear attachment ring and the center attachment ring. A control mechanism controls the inflatable airfoil during flight.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2010Date of Patent: May 1, 2012Assignee: Floatograph Technologies, LLCInventor: Tony W. Mears
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Patent number: 8157205Abstract: This invention performs relative positioning, predictive control, and ballast control to achieve very heavy-lifting tasks on land or sea. Such tasks allow station keeping and precise transfer of very heavy payloads between ships underway. This scalable multibody system features three subcomponents: Airship, Skycrane and Loadframe. This semi-autonomous system combines aerodynamic (kinetic) and aerostatic (buoyancy force) lift with efficient power and propulsion. During low-speed flight, the Airship and Skycrane are decoupled but linked via a reelable Tether Control Line. Beneath the Skycrane, centered on its hull, a patented NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) RoboCrane, featuring a computer controlled six degrees of freedom (DoF) cabling system, is attached, to precisely suspend and control a Loadframe, with or without payload. During subsonic forward flight, these Airship and Skycrane are coupled as a single airframe: fuselage and delta wing.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2007Date of Patent: April 17, 2012Inventor: Bruce Kimberly McWhirk
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Patent number: 8152092Abstract: This invention relates to an aerial transporter comprising rigid cell structures which are covered with light materials as a skin, composed of modules. The invention aerial transporter represents some type of airship without a tail unit as well as an approximate balloon construction comprising a rigid structure and an independent drive unit. Said aerial transporter can transport loads in the range of about 20 t and more over short to medium distances using lighter-than-air technology while meeting air traffic regulations. Furthermore, the disclosed aerial transporter can be used as an air crane in the tied state.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2006Date of Patent: April 10, 2012Assignee: Delcon Deutsche Luftfahrt Consult GmbHInventors: Rolf Zulkowski, Jürgen Henk, Carl Von Gablenz, Christoph Von Kessel
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Patent number: 8152093Abstract: Various laminate structures and methods of making laminate structures are provided. In one embodiment, a laminate structure includes a base layer, a metallized layer comprising an electronic/embedded device which is adhered to the base layer. A coating layer which is adhered to the conductive layer, and a non-metallic dichroic layer adhered to the coating layer. In another embodiment, the non-metallic dichroic layer directly contacts the electronic/embedded devices of the conductive layer. The laminate structures herein can be used in the hull of the air vehicles to communicate with satellites and ground based receiving stations, for example. The electronic/embedded devices of the laminate structures provide a low weight solution to transmitting and receiving data within an air vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2008Date of Patent: April 10, 2012Assignee: Lockheed Martin CorporationInventors: Paul E. Liggett, Thomas M. Whiteleather
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Patent number: 8141814Abstract: An aerial load lifting system features a non-rigid or blimp-type dirigible providing a lighter-than-air envelope that is placed within a structural shell. The system is designed so that the envelope provides essentially neutral buoyancy for the structure, leaving only the cargo weight to be lifted by the rotors. The structural shell supports the engine, fuel tank, rotors, and transmission system that power the lift and vectoring of the aircraft, in addition to supporting the cargo load. The structural shell transfers the weight of the load directly to the location of the rotors, thus avoiding stress on the envelope.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 2007Date of Patent: March 27, 2012Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventor: Richard L. Kulesha
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Patent number: 8113463Abstract: An airship includes an airbag, a control cabin disposed on a lower portion of the airbag, a propel device mounted to a rear portion of the control cabin and a power control system disposed in the control cabin. The propel device includes a propeller for providing moving power to the airship and multiple compressors each having a spray nozzle connected thereto for providing air stream to change the moving direction of the airship. The power control system includes multiple solar energy boards secured on and outer periphery of the airship for transferring the solar energy into direct current that is used as an energy source of the airship.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 2009Date of Patent: February 14, 2012Inventor: Man Ji Wu
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Publication number: 20120018571Abstract: A solar-powered airship with a hull configured to contain a gas and at least one propulsion assembly with a propulsion device and electric motors configured to drive the propulsion device. The airship may also include a power supply system including solar panels operatively coupled to the electric motors and configured to supply power to the electric motors. The power supply system may also include batteries operatively coupled to the solar panels and configured to receive and store electrical energy supplied by the solar panels, the batteries being further operatively coupled to the electric motors and configured to supply power to the electric motors. The batteries may each be located within an outer envelope of the airship defined by the hull of the airship in a position selected to provide ballast. The solar-powered airship may also include a cargo system configured to contain passengers or freight.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 14, 2011Publication date: January 26, 2012Inventor: John Goelet
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Publication number: 20110315811Abstract: The lighter-than-air vehicle for shading is an airborne, movable system that provides shade from the sun for an open area. The vehicle is a substantially flat flying device having upper and lower surfaces, and which is filled with a lighter-than-air gas or gases, such as helium or hydrogen. The vehicle may be tethered to the ground through control wires, or may be fully autonomous and controlled by propeller fans. The required power may be provided by wire from ground, or through a portable power source, such as solar cells, mounted atop of vehicle. The vehicle has sun sensors that allow it to track the sun, and provides around the clock shaded area underneath its surface. The vehicle can also have pressure sensors and altitude sensors that may trigger an alarm in case of an emergency descent to the ground.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 6, 2011Publication date: December 29, 2011Applicant: KING FAHD UNIVERSITY OF PETROLEUM AND MINERALSInventors: AHMED Z. AL-GARNI, AYMAN H. KASSEM
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Patent number: 8083174Abstract: Apparatus and method for a continuous replenishing of the lift gas and maintaining the proper pressure and lift of a tethered medium altitude aerostat utilizing a novel feed tube running the entire length of the tether. A first end of the feed tube is connected to the aerostat while a second end is connected through a novel slip ring means to a pressure controlled helium ballast chamber and scrubber on the ground to maintain pressure and lift by a reversible compressing pump. A plurality of pressure and temperature sensors and tension gauges strategically placed inside and around the airship continuously monitor the temperature and pressure changes in the aerostat. A data retrieval and communication unit mounted on the aerostat collects measurement data from the pressure, temperature and tension sensors which is relayed to the ground station and the data is used to regulate lifting gas pressure inside the aerostat.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2010Date of Patent: December 27, 2011Assignee: StratoComm CorporationInventor: Yee-Chun Lee
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Publication number: 20110303141Abstract: The invention relates to a light floating flue consisting of a wall of fibre-reinforced film which rotates about its axis to balance the reduced pressure in the flue with the centrifugal force on the gases in the flue and with the flue wall. The flue floats due to the friction with the rising air, the upward force of the lighter gases, optionally a zeppelin and balloon-like bodies filled with helium or hydrogen. In order to prevent bending moments on the flue, the flue is attached to the base of the tower by means of a tillable bearing.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 1, 2010Publication date: December 15, 2011Inventor: Hagg Franklin
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Patent number: 8061647Abstract: An airship includes a substantially rigid keel with a balloon suspended from a fore of the keel and a balloon suspended from the aft of the keel. Motor booms extend laterally from the keel between the fore and the aft. Motors with propellers thereon are coupled to the end of each motor boom. The balloons are preferably coupled to the keel through cradles which support portions of the balloon above the keel and restrain the balloons to pivoting motion in a fore and aft pitching direction. A deployment system is disclosed including filing of the balloons within balloon deployment bags on the ground, and then opening the bags at time of launch. The keel and other structural elements can be in the form of a truss, rigid hollow cylindrical tubes, or air beams and stressed skin sheets, or combinations thereof. The airship achieves high altitude controlled flight above the stratosphere.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2008Date of Patent: November 22, 2011Inventor: John Powell
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Patent number: 8052082Abstract: An optimized lighter-than-air vehicle or airship incorporating a frame 104, internal propulsion 124, perforated covering 102 and lifting-gas cells 110 is disclosed. Optimization features include variations on a Stratford Ramp, means to control the boundary layer 210, absence of unnecessary protuberances and means to reduce the bow wave. A transportable version utilizing a flexible frame 310 and keels 314 is also disclosed along with a means for rapid descent and landing. The operating concept reduces velocity requirements which, in turn, reduce weight and size requirements.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2006Date of Patent: November 8, 2011Inventor: Edward Charles Herlik
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Publication number: 20110267241Abstract: Multi-Mission Frameless Airship Platform (MFAP) leverages composite material science to achieve a frameless lightweight airframe design enabling increased speed, lift and cargo capacity. Deployable/retrievable high-value modules provide enhanced operational and mission flexibility. Unified power electronics enable hybrid integration of propulsion, power generation (e.g. diesel generator, photovoltaic solar, etc.), energy storage and tethered wind-power generation for both on-grid and off-grid electrical power delivery for airborne operations and ground operations. Onboard antenna systems serve as cell phone towers.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 3, 2011Publication date: November 3, 2011Inventors: Thomas Grimm, Gregory T. Smedley, Reindy Allendra, Kathryn A. Schubel
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Publication number: 20110240794Abstract: An airship for facilitating transportation to and from one or more locations which are difficult to access or operate such as high above the ground level is disclosed. The airship can also be used in surface missions, The airship includes a cabin and a platform. The cabin is configured on a top portion of the airship. The platform is operatively connected to the cabin. The platform facilitates easy access to the cabin.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 21, 2011Publication date: October 6, 2011Applicant: King Abdulaziz City for Science and TechnologyInventor: Mohammed HARIRI
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Publication number: 20110233324Abstract: A radio frequency transparent photovoltaic cell includes a back contact layer formed of an electrically conductive material, at least one aperture formed in the back contact layer, and at least one photovoltaic cell section disposed on the back contact layer. An airship includes one or more radio frequency antennas disposed in an interior of the airship. One or more radio frequency transparent photovoltaic cells are disposed on an outer surface of the airship.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 25, 2010Publication date: September 29, 2011Inventors: Daniel F. Sievenpiper, Michael Wechsberg, Fangchou Yang
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Publication number: 20110233325Abstract: A system for controlling the lift of an airship for carrying a cargo and a supply of fuel has a self supporting hull made of a flexible gas impermeable material. Air which is located in the hull is at an internal pressure which is greater than the atmospheric pressure of the air on the outside of the hull, and a bag filled with helium is located within the hull and is surrounded by the air in the hull. A heating means is provided to heat both the air and the helium. The bag located within the hull and surrounded by the air in the hull has enough helium in it at ambient temperature to lift all but the cargo and fuel in the airship, and the air and helium, when heated, provides increased buoyancy due to the increase of expansion of both heated gases to lift the airship with its fuel and cargo.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 29, 2011Publication date: September 29, 2011Inventor: Dale Clifford Kramer
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Patent number: 8020805Abstract: A new High Altitude Airship (HAA) capable of various extended applications and mission scenarios utilizing inventive onboard energy harvesting and power distribution systems. The power technology comprises an advanced thermoelectric (ATE) thermal energy conversion system. The high efficiency of multiple stages of ATE materials in a tandem mode, each suited for best performance within a particular temperature range, permits the ATE system to generate a high quantity of harvested energy for the extended mission scenarios. When the figure of merit 5 is considered, the cascaded efficiency of the three-stage ATE system approaches an efficiency greater than 60 percent.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2007Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space AdministrationInventors: Sang H. Choi, James R. Elliott, Jr., Glen C. King, Yeonjoon Park, Jae-Woo Kim, Sang-Hyon Chu
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Patent number: 8016229Abstract: A hybrid air vehicle is disclosed in which a cover is provided for a plurality of air cushioned landing pads to reduce drag when airborne. The pad is inflatable to provide an air cushioned during touchdown and deflatable during flight of the air vehicle. The cover can include a first cover portion and a second cover portion. A first cover roller of the first cover portion and a matching second cover roller of the second cover portion abut to cover the corresponding pad. The first cover roller and the second cover roller, which are separate and free from a physical linkage there between, are separable in an eyelid fashion to expose the corresponding pad. A separation gap between the first cover roller and the second cover roller is increased or decreased by roller straps to cover or expose the corresponding pad.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2008Date of Patent: September 13, 2011Assignee: Lockheed Martin CorporationInventors: Douglas H. Greiner, John P. Morehead, Renee Pasman, Robert R. Boyd
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Patent number: 8011615Abstract: An environmental data collection system and method is provided having an internet link for providing an additional level of security for a remotely controlled data collection platform having a security alarm for protecting the platform and the environmental subject of the study. A novel lighter-than-air platform having a novel snorkel for detachably securing, mooring and providing buoyancy control is provided for the collection of data in the form of real time audio and video linked to the internet and subscribers. The novel snorkel is flexible and retractable into the novel airship to provide remote buoyancy control of the airship together with silently operating electrical motors for allowing the novel airship to be remotely controlled and moved at will to track and monitor wildlife and make environmental measurements necessary for the protection of the environment, wildlife and the operation of the novel airship.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2008Date of Patent: September 6, 2011Assignee: Sky Innovations, Inc.Inventors: Edward R. Silansky, Harry Darlington, IV, Kenneth E. Burton, Jr., Sandra Silansky
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Patent number: 8006933Abstract: Disclosed is a system for generating power from sunlight collected substantially above the earth's surface, comprised of an airborne platform which supports an apparatus to collect sunlight, an apparatus to convert sunlight to electricity, and an apparatus to transmit the electricity to a selected location on the earth's surface. The invention collects solar energy above the clouds and transmits the energy to a receiving station on the ground via a cable, thereby avoiding the attenuating effects of clouds and pollution, resulting in an improved solar power generation system.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2008Date of Patent: August 30, 2011Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventor: Brian J. Tillotson
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Publication number: 20110198438Abstract: The present invention relates generally to airships and more precisely, to a propulsion and steering system for use with an airship. The airship possesses a hull having an outer envelope. The propulsion and steering system includes at least one propulsion and steering assembly. The assembly includes an engine for producing thrust to propel the airship and a support frame for carrying the engine. The engine is fixed to the support frame. A support frame movement mechanism is operable to move the support frame relative to the hull to thereby allow the engine and the thrust produced by the engine to be oriented in a desired direction. The assembly further includes spacer means connected to the support frame movement mechanism for spacing the support frame and the engine from the outer envelope of the hull so as to create sufficient clearance therebetween when the support frame is moved. Also provided is a mounting framework for attaching the spacer means to the hull.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 18, 2010Publication date: August 18, 2011Inventor: Hokan Colting
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Patent number: 7997532Abstract: A system for generating power from sunlight collected substantially above the earth's surface comprises an airborne platform which supports an apparatus to collect sunlight, an apparatus to convert sunlight to electricity, and an apparatus to transmit the electricity to a selected location on the earth's surface. The airborne platform collects solar energy above the clouds and transmits the energy to a receiving station on the ground via a microwave transmission system, avoiding possible attenuating effects of clouds and pollution.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 2008Date of Patent: August 16, 2011Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventor: Brian J. Tillotson
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Publication number: 20110163200Abstract: An airship may include a hull substantially shaped as an oblate spheroid, one or more frame members defining a support structure, wherein the support structure forms at least a partial support for the hull, at least one horizontal stabilizing member operably coupled to a lower surface of the airship, and at least one horizontal stabilizing member having a first end and a second end. The at least one horizontal stabilizing member may define an anhedral configuration. The airship may also include a vertical stabilizing member having a first end pivotally coupled to the airship and a second end oriented to remain below an upper surface of the airship. The vertical stabilizing member may be configured to pivot within a vertical plane, and the first end of the vertical stabilizing member and the first end of the at least one horizontal stabilizing member may be operably coupled to one another.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 1, 2010Publication date: July 7, 2011Inventor: Pierre Balaskovic
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Patent number: 7938364Abstract: A system for generating power from sunlight collected substantially above the earth's surface comprises an airborne platform which supports solar power generation system to collect sunlight, convert the sunlight to electricity, and to transmit the electricity to a selected location on the earth's surface. The solar power generation system is coupled to the airborne platform by a support which can be manipulated by a control system to move the solar power generation system away from a shadow that might be cast by the airborne platform.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 2008Date of Patent: May 10, 2011Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventor: Brian J. Tillotson
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Patent number: 7891603Abstract: A system allowing for the controlled propulsion of aircraft, especially buoyant and semi-buoyant airships designed as a symmetric body of revolution, without the need for or use of aerodynamic control surfaces, comprised of a plurality of ducted fan thrusters placed both fore and aft, designed to ingest air flowing at less than free stream velocity. Fans are arranged such that when at standard orientation, the thrust from each is directed tangentially to an arc drawn along the hull from bow to stem. By defining multiple sets of thrusters based upon their location, differential thrust may be applied based upon set membership in order to affect translational and rotational maneuvering of the aircraft.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 2008Date of Patent: February 22, 2011Inventor: Michael Todd Voorhees
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Patent number: 7887007Abstract: A high-altitude long-endurance airship with a top surface that is highly emissive of infrared radiation and a bottom surface that is highly absorptive of infrared radiation. Movable displacer blankets inside the airship separate the upper and lower portions of the airship. Lifting gas in the airship is warmed by radiation from the earth when the displacer blankets are in their upper position. Lifting gas is cooled by radiation to space when the displacer blankets are in their lower position. The whole airship is a heat engine. By expanding the volume of lifting gas when it is relatively warm and compressing the lifting gas when it is relatively cold, net power output can be recovered in the form of electric power. The overall configuration of the preferred airship is a variable-thickness flying wing. If the whole airship is alternately expanded and compressed, imbalance between its weight and buoyancy allow gliding flight.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2008Date of Patent: February 15, 2011Inventor: Matthew P. Mitchell
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Patent number: 7878453Abstract: A power-generating laminate for an airship comprises a base fabric layer, a barrier layer disposed upon the fabric layer, an inner metal film layer disposed upon the barrier layer, a piezoelectric/pyroelectric layer disposed upon the inner metal layer, an outer metal layer disposed upon the piezoelectric/pyroelectric layer, and a cover layer disposed upon the outer metal layer. The power-generating laminate forms a gas-impervious envelope to maintain lifting gas and air therein, and is configured such that when the envelope is subjected to structural strain or experiences changes in temperature, power is generated, which is used to supply power to the various electrical systems aboard the airship.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2008Date of Patent: February 1, 2011Assignee: Lockheed Martin CorporationInventor: Paul E. Liggett
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Patent number: 7875795Abstract: An energy generating device for lighter-than-air vehicles having a gas impervious outer flexible fabric including a flexible photovoltaic array located on the outer layer of the gas impervious fabric; a thermocouple array located between the photovoltaic cells and the gas impervious fabric; a thermally conductive layer or heat spreader between the thermocouple array and the photovoltaic array and between the thermocouple array and the gas impervious flexible fabric; an electrically conductive means connected to said thermocouple array for drawing electrical power away from said thermocouple array; and an electrical load, such as an electrical storage device or a device that consumes electricity, for drawing electricity from the thermocouple array.Type: GrantFiled: February 29, 2008Date of Patent: January 25, 2011Assignee: Lockheed Martin CorporationInventor: Paul E. Liggett
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Patent number: 7871035Abstract: A propulsion system for an airship or hybrid aircraft includes a propeller and a pivot mechanism connected to the propeller. The pivot mechanism enables the propeller to pivot around a first pivot axis between a maneuver thruster position and an emergency ballonet fill position. Under normal conditions, when the propulsion system is disposed in the maneuver thruster position, the pivot mechanism also enables the propeller to pivot around a second pivot axis to control the attitude and thrust of the vehicle. However, in an emergency descent situation, the propeller may be rotated to the emergency ballonet fill position.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2007Date of Patent: January 18, 2011Assignee: Hamilton Sundstrand CorporationInventor: David V. Arel
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Publication number: 20110006153Abstract: An environmental data collection system and method is provided having an internet link for providing an additional level of security for a remotely controlled data collection platform having a security alarm for protecting the platform and the environmental subject of the study. A novel lighter-than-air platform having a novel snorkel for detachably securing, mooring and providing buoyancy control is provided for the collection of data in the form of real time audio and video linked to the internet and subscribers. The novel snorkel is flexible and retractable into the novel airship to provide remote buoyancy control of the airship together with silently operating electrical motors for allowing the novel airship to be remotely controlled and moved at will to track and monitor wildlife and make environmental measurements necessary for the protection of the environment, wildlife and the operation of the novel airship.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 10, 2008Publication date: January 13, 2011Inventors: Edward R. Silansky, Harry Darlington, IV, Kenneth E. Burton, JR., Sandra Silansky
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Patent number: 7866601Abstract: An airship may include a hull substantially shaped as an oblate spheroid, one or more frame members defining a support structure, wherein the support structure forms at least a partial support for the hull, at least one horizontal stabilizing member operably coupled to a lower surface of the airship, and at least one horizontal stabilizing member having a first end and a second end. The at least one horizontal stabilizing member may define an anhedral configuration. The airship may also include a vertical stabilizing member having a first end pivotally coupled to the airship and a second end oriented to remain below an upper surface of the airship. The vertical stabilizing member may be configured to pivot within a vertical plane, and the first end of the vertical stabilizing member and the first end of the at least one horizontal stabilizing member may be operably coupled to one another.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 2007Date of Patent: January 11, 2011Assignee: LTA CorporationInventor: Pierre Balaskovic
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Patent number: 7841561Abstract: A system and method for internally supporting a flexible envelope such as an airship is described, comprising a truss structure and supporting struts attached to a central support member. The internal structure may be foldable so as to allow the envelope to be collapsed when not in use.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 2006Date of Patent: November 30, 2010Inventor: Daniel Nachbar
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Publication number: 20100230531Abstract: Systems and methods are described for deterring birds from flying into airspace above airport runways. The system features at least one mortar for firing a pyrotechnic device to produce a light and sound display for the purpose of disturbing, frightening, and harassing birds so as to deter them from flying into airspace above and in the vicinity of an airport runway. The mortars of the system can be installed on a mounting platform capable of being securely connected to the ground or a ground surface substrate or to a vehicle. Fixed position, movable and portable embodiments of the system may be created and used. The light and sound display produced by the exploding pyrotechnic devices can be varied to prevent the birds from becoming desensitized to the sounds and visual effects of the system. The system may also include deterrent chemicals.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 21, 2010Publication date: September 16, 2010Inventors: FAYED O. FAYED, FRANK CARMEL CERAVOLO
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Publication number: 20100230533Abstract: An airship comprising a hull configured to be inflated with a first gas; a ballonet in the hull, the ballonet configured to be inflated with a second gas that is heavier than the first gas; a fan configured to draw the second gas into the ballonet; an inflatable landing system; a duct configured in the ballonet to allow access to components in the airship; and a valve coupled to the ballonet. The valve provides a pathway for air to flow between the ballonet and a plenum chamber, the plenum chamber is formed by the airship, a landing surface, and the inflatable landing system when the inflatable landing system is in contact with the landing surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 13, 2009Publication date: September 16, 2010Inventor: Douglas H. Greiner
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Patent number: 7776295Abstract: An apparatus for removing harmful gas components out of the earth's atmosphere is a free-flying autonomous lightweight aircraft with an onboard gas processing system including gas separation or extraction devices, and inlets and outlets connected to the devices. Solar cells and/or thermoelectric generators provided on the craft produce electrical energy to operate the individual devices. The system may include a cryogenic closed-loop circulation system that participates in liquefying the extracted gas components. The apparatus is preferably a lighter-than-air craft like a dirigible. A method of extracting harmful gas components from the atmosphere involves flying the apparatus at a prescribed altitude level and operating the gas processing system to remove the harmful gas component from the atmosphere, then returning the apparatus to earth to offload the liquefied stored harmful gas component.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2009Date of Patent: August 17, 2010Assignee: Astrium GmbHInventor: Detlev Konigorski