Abstract:
In specific embodiments, a vehicle propellable through fluids comprises a main work section and a plurality of propulsion units. The main work section includes a payload support hub, a payload support structure rotatable in 360° about the payload support hub in at least one axis, and a core including at least one microprocessor, the core at least partially nested within the payload support hub. The at least one microprocessor is adapted to substantially maintain an orientation of the payload support structure relative to a horizon line as the vehicle is propelled. One or more payloads are mountable on the rotatable payload support structure.
Abstract:
A system comprising an aerial vehicle or an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) configured to control pitch, roll, and/or yaw via airfoils having resiliently mounted trailing edges opposed by fuselage-house deflecting actuator horns. Embodiments include one or more rudder elements which may be rotatably attached and actuated by an effector member disposed within the fuselage housing and extendible in part to engage the one or more rudder elements.
Abstract:
A power safety system is configured to provide power information in an aircraft. The power safety system includes a power safety instrument having a power required indicator and a power available indicator, each being located on a display. A position of the power required indicator and the power available indicator represent the power available and power required to perform a hover flight maneuver. The power safety system may be operated in a flight planning mode or in a current flight mode. The power safety system uses at least one sensor to measure variables having an effect on the power required and the power available.
Abstract:
A system comprising an aerial vehicle or an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) (100,400,1000,1500) configured to control pitch, roll, and/or yaw via airfoils (141,142,1345,1346) having resiliently mounted trailing edges opposed by fuselage-house house deflecting actuator horns (621,622). Embodiments include one or more rudder elements (1045, 1046,1145, 1146,1245, 1345, 1346,1445, 1446,1545, 1546) which may be rotatably attached and actuated by an effector member (1049,1149,1249,1349) disposed within the fuselage housing (1001) and extendible in part to engage the one or more rudder elements.
Abstract:
An unmanned air vehicle for military, land security and the like operations includes a fuselage provided with foldable wings having leading edge flaps and trailing edge ailerons which are operable during ascent from launch to control the flight pattern with the wings folded, the wings being deployed into an open unfolded position when appropriate. The vehicle is contained within a pod from which it is launched and a landing deck is provided to decelerate and arrest the vehicle upon its return to land.
Abstract:
Methods and apparatuses provide surveillance of a convoy. At least one unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) obtains images around the convoy's position to provide information about potential hostile activity while the UAV follows a generally curvilinear path around the convoy as instructed by one of the convoy vehicles. Path planner algorithm software is executed by the controlling convoy vehicle in which position and velocity information regarding the unmanned aerial vehicle and the convoy are processed to determine values of control variables. The determined values are sent to the unmanned aerial vehicle over a wireless communications channel. The path of the surveillance vehicle may be changed in order to provide evasive measures to avoid an attack on the surveillance vehicle by an adversary.
Abstract:
A transmission system that is used in conjunction with a microturbine engine for propelling an aircraft body, such as a propeller-based fixed-wing aircraft or a rotor-based vertical lift aircraft, or for a wide variety of other applications. The output shaft of the microturbine engine preferably operates at a rotational speed in a range between 72,000 RPM and 150,000 RPM with an output power between 150 HP and 5 HP (and most preferably operates in an extended range between 50,000 RPM and 200,000 RPM with an output power between 200 HP and 5 HP). The two reduction stages provide a reduction ratio preferably having a value of at least 19, and most preferably greater than 24. The transmission system is of small-size preferably having a maximum diameter less than twelve inches. The two stages of the transmission system may comprise any one (or parts of) of a number of configurations, including an in-line lay shaft configuration, an in-line star-star configuration an offset star-spur configuration, an offset compound idler configuration, an inline traction-internal gear configuration, and an inline traction planetary gear configuration. Preferably, the input stage of the transmission system is self-equilibrating such that first shaft can be supported without bearings and is operably coupled to the output shaft of the microturbine engine by an outside diameter piloted spline coupling mechanism. For vertical lift applications, a single traction stage along with a bevel gear assembly or other shaft transmission mechanism can be used to provide the necessary RPM reduction.
Abstract:
A small, reusable interceptor unmanned air vehicle (UAV), an avionics control system for the UAV, a design method for the UAV and a method for controlling the UAV, for interdiction of small scale air, water and ground threats. The UAV includes a high performance airframe with integrated weapon and avionics platforms. Design of the UAV first involves the selection of a suitable weapon, then the design of the interceptor airframe to achieve weapon aiming via airframe maneuvering. The UAV utilizes an avionics control system that is vehicle-centric and, as such, provides for a high degree of autonomous control of the UAV. A situational awareness processor has access to a suite of disparate sensors that provide data for intelligently (autonomously) carrying out various mission scenarios. A flight control processor operationally integrated with the situational awareness processor includes a pilot controller and an autopilot controller for flying and maneuvering the UAV.
Abstract:
An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) having a design for optimum stowability and low cost. The UAV having a collapsible wing section which can be easily removed from the fuselage, allowing for quick assembly and disassembly and ease of portability. The unmanned aerial vehicle includes a primary wing assembly, a fuselage, a means for propelling the unmanned aerial vehicle, and means for remotely controlling the unmanned aerial vehicle. The primary wing assembly includes a wing having a center spar and two outwardly diverging side spars. The wing also has a pliable flexible material supported by the center spar and the at least two outwardly diverging side spars. The pylon is connected to the wing and supports the wing. The fuselage is connected to the pylon such that the pylon extends away from the fuselage and spaces the wing a distance from the fuselage. The fuselage includes a tail having a rudder located along a trailing edge and elevators located along the trailing edge.
Abstract:
The invention relates to a piece of ammunition or ammunition component comprising a pyrotechnic load associated with a structure, such as a casing. This ammunition is characterized in that part at least of its structure is made of an energetic material comprising at least one energetic component mixed with at least a first structural reinforcement material.