Abstract

A method is provided for detecting conflict along a route for a robot to travel. The method includes generating a predicted trajectory of a nearby moving object, generating a trajectory of the robot, and performing a comparison of the nearby moving object and the robot on their projected trajectory and trajectory to detect a conflict that may be avoided. The comparison includes determining updated positions and velocities of the nearby moving object and the robot. The comparison also includes determining if the nearby moving object is within a clear region that includes the robot from the updated positions, and if a time to closest point of approach between nearby moving object and the robot is less than a time threshold value from the updated velocities. The conflict is then detected when the nearby moving object is within the clear region, and the time to closest point of approach is less than the time threshold value.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08G 5/04 - Anti-collision systems
• G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude or attitude of land, water, air or space vehicles, e.g. using automatic pilots
• G05D 1/02 - Control of position or course in two dimensions
• G08G 5/00 - Traffic control systems for aircraft

Abstract

A navigation system for an aircraft includes a light source, a light sensor, one or more processors, and a computer readable medium storing instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the navigation system to perform functions. The functions include illuminating a surface using the light source to cause light to be reflected from the surface and detecting the light and generating data representing the light using the light sensor. The data maps intensities of the light to respective positions on the surface. The functions further include identifying within the data a subset of the data that corresponds to a border and causing navigation of the aircraft based on a position of the border indicated by the subset of the data.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08G 5/50 - Navigation or guidance aids
• B64D 47/02 - Arrangements or adaptations of signal or lighting devices
• G01S 17/88 - Lidar systems, specially adapted for specific applications
• G01S 17/89 - Lidar systems, specially adapted for specific applications for mapping or imaging
• G05D 1/437 - Control of position or course in two dimensions for aircraft during their ground movement
• G08G 5/54 - Navigation or guidance aids for approach or landing
• G08G 5/55 - Navigation or guidance aids for a single aircraft

Abstract

Disclosed herein is a system that comprises an imaging sensor coupled to a robot. The system also comprises an imaging module configured to capture images of a scene within a field of view of the imaging sensor, which is coupled to the robot. The system further comprises an image-processing module configured to process the captured images to identify one or more objects within the field of view of the imaging sensor in the scene relative to the robot. The system additionally comprises a tracking module configured to track the one or more objects relative to the robot while the one or more objects are in motion based on the captured images.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06T 7/246 - Analysis of motion using feature-based methods, e.g. the tracking of corners or segments
• G06T 7/136 - SegmentationEdge detection involving thresholding
• G06T 7/194 - SegmentationEdge detection involving foreground-background segmentation
• G06V 10/764 - Arrangements for image or video recognition or understanding using pattern recognition or machine learning using classification, e.g. of video objects

Abstract

A method is provided for detecting and avoiding conflict along a current route of a robot. The method includes accessing a trajectory of the robot on the current route of the robot, and a predicted trajectory of a nearby moving object, and from the trajectory and predicted trajectory, detecting a conflict between the robot and the nearby moving object. Alternate routes for the robot are determined, each of which includes an alternative route segment offset from the current route, and a transition segment from the current route to the alternative route segment. Routes including the current and alternative routes are evaluated according to a cost metric, and a route from the routes is selected for use in at least one of guidance, navigation or control of the robot to avoid the conflict.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08G 5/55 - Navigation or guidance aids for a single aircraft
• G08G 5/30 - Flight plan management
• G08G 5/56 - Navigation or guidance aids for two or more aircraft
• G08G 5/57 - Navigation or guidance aids for unmanned aircraft
• G08G 5/59 - Navigation or guidance aids in accordance with predefined flight zones, e.g. to avoid prohibited zones
• G08G 5/74 - Arrangements for monitoring traffic-related situations or conditions for monitoring terrain
• G08G 5/80 - Anti-collision systems

Abstract

A method is provided for supporting a robot in response to a contingency event. The method includes detecting the contingency event during travel of the robot on a route to a destination. In response, the method includes determining a position of the robot, and accessing information about alternate destinations associated with the route. The method includes selecting an alternate destination from the alternate destinations based on a time to travel from the position of the robot to the alternate destination, and the information. And the method includes outputting an indication of the alternate destination for use in at least one of guidance, navigation or control of the robot to the alternate destination.

IPC Classes  ?

• G05D 1/60 - Intended control result
• G05D 1/229 - Command input data, e.g. waypoints

Abstract

Technology segments an input flight path into segments based on terrain data, identifies target altitude heights of endpoints of the segments based on the terrain data and a target cruise altitude of an aircraft, identifies local maximas associated with the segments that are arranged in an order along the input flight path, identifies one or more local maximas of the local maximas that represent a dip in altitude from a previous one or more of the local maximas, removes the one or more local maximas from the plurality of local maximas to generate a reduced list of local maximas, sets a plurality of waypoints as the endpoints and the local maximas in the reduced list of local maximas, generates a flight path based at least in part on the plurality of waypoints, and causes the flight path to be provided to the at aircraft.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01C 21/20 - Instruments for performing navigational calculations

Abstract

A method is provided for horizon detection. The method includes acquiring an image that depicts a view of an environment, and defining a line pattern of lines that divide the image into respective pairs of image segments. The line pattern is formed of lines that are parallel, or intersecting at a common point of intersection. The method incudes searching the lines of the line pattern to identify one of the lines as an estimated true horizon in the image that divides the image into a respective pair of image segments at a boundary of greatest difference in average brightness between the image segments from among the respective pairs of image segments. The method includes determining true horizon in the image from the estimated true horizon. The method may also include an evaluation of the estimated true horizon or the true horizon as to verify one or more expected characteristics.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• B64U 101/30 - UAVs specially adapted for particular uses or applications for imaging, photography or videography
• G06T 7/12 - Edge-based segmentation
• G06T 7/13 - Edge detection
• G06T 7/174 - SegmentationEdge detection involving the use of two or more images
• G06V 10/26 - Segmentation of patterns in the image fieldCutting or merging of image elements to establish the pattern region, e.g. clustering-based techniquesDetection of occlusion
• G06V 10/60 - Extraction of image or video features relating to illumination properties, e.g. using a reflectance or lighting model

Abstract

Techniques for establishing the sufficiency of a path planner to avoid multiple obstacles in planning a path from a starting location to a destination location is presented. The techniques can include: iterating, until a stopping condition occurs: obtaining, from the path planner, a path from the starting location to the destination location; representing the path from the starting location to the destination location as a disjunction of logical terms; conjoining the disjunction of terms to a conjunction of terms representing previously considered paths; determining a satisfiability condition of the conjunction of terms; and for a positive satisfiability condition, adding at least one corresponding obstacle of the plurality of obstacles to the path planner; and providing an indication of sufficiency of the path planner to avoid the obstacles in planning a path from the starting location to the destination location based on the stopping condition.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08G 5/00 - Traffic control systems for aircraft
• G08G 5/04 - Anti-collision systems

Abstract

The present disclosure provides systems, apparatuses, and methods relating to a fan apparatus including a lift fan mounted in a duct and a cover for the lift fan. In some examples, a fan apparatus has a louvered cover including louvers having different chord lengths and/or different projection distances relative to one another when the louvers are in an intermediate (transitional) position. In some examples, a fan apparatus includes a louver actuation assembly configured to move louvers of the fan apparatus rotationally and translationally between open and closed positions. In some examples, a fan apparatus includes a fluid-actuated sealing assembly configured to form a seal between a sealing member and a cover, such as a louvered cover.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 29/00 - Aircraft capable of landing or taking-off vertically, e.g. vertical take-off and landing [VTOL] aircraft
• B64C 3/38 - Adjustment of complete wings or parts thereof
• B64C 21/02 - Influencing air flow over aircraft surfaces by affecting boundary layer flow by use of slot, ducts, porous areas or the like
• F02K 1/00 - Plants characterised by the form or arrangement of the jet pipe or nozzleJet pipes or nozzles peculiar thereto

Abstract

A method is provided for detecting and avoiding conflict during a mission of a robot that includes a global route of travel. The method includes monitoring a state of the robot and a state of an environment of the robot as the robot travels the global route. The method includes generating a local route of travel through a region of the environment that includes the robot, the region having a size and shape that are set based on a type of the robot and the state of the robot when the local route is generated. A measure of uncertainty in the perception of objects in the region is monitored based on the state of the environment. And the robot is caused to maintain the global route or transition to the local route based on a comparison of the measure of uncertainty and an uncertainty threshold.

IPC Classes  ?

• G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude or attitude of land, water, air or space vehicles, e.g. using automatic pilots
• G05D 1/43 - Control of position or course in two dimensions
• G05D 1/46 - Control of position or course in three dimensions
• G05D 1/81 - Handing over between on-board automatic and on-board manual control

Abstract

A method of supporting robot(s) landing within a ground region is provided. The method includes accessing a map in which the ground region is tessellated into cells covering respective areas of the ground region. Each cell is classified as feasible to indicate a respective area is feasible for landing, or infeasible to indicate the respective area is infeasible for landing. The map is searched for clusters of adjoining cells that are classified as feasible, covering clusters of adjoining areas that define sub-regions within the ground region that are feasible for landing. The sub-regions are ranked according to a cost metric, and one of the sub-regions is selected according to the ranking. A geographic position of the selected sub-region is then output for use in at least one of guidance, navigation or control of the robot(s) to land at the selected sub-region within the ground region.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01C 21/00 - NavigationNavigational instruments not provided for in groups
• G05D 1/46 - Control of position or course in three dimensions
• G06F 17/16 - Matrix or vector computation
• G06F 18/232 - Non-hierarchical techniques
• G06V 20/13 - Satellite images

Abstract

A method includes receiving a first image that is captured at a first time. The method also includes detecting a location of a first object in the first image. The method also includes determining a region of interest based at least partially upon the location of the first object in the first image. The method also includes receiving a second image that is captured at a second time. The method also includes identifying the region of interest in the second image. The method also includes detecting a location of a second object in a portion of the second image that is outside of the region of interest.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06V 10/20 - Image preprocessing
• G06F 18/20 - Analysing
• G06V 10/75 - Organisation of the matching processes, e.g. simultaneous or sequential comparisons of image or video featuresCoarse-fine approaches, e.g. multi-scale approachesImage or video pattern matchingProximity measures in feature spaces using context analysisSelection of dictionaries
• G06V 20/64 - Three-dimensional objects

Abstract

A method is provided for detecting and avoiding conflict along a current route of a robot. The method includes accessing or determining trajectories of the robot and a nearby moving object forward in time from their respective current positions, and detecting a conflict from a comparison of the trajectories. The method includes selecting a maneuver to avoid the conflict, and outputting an indication of the maneuver for use in at least one of guidance, navigation or control of the robot to avoid the conflict. Selection of the maneuver includes determining a plurality of angles that describe the conflict such as those at which the robot and moving object observe one another, and/or an angle between their trajectories, and evaluating the plurality of angles to select the maneuver.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08G 5/04 - Anti-collision systems
• G05B 13/02 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion electric
• G05D 1/223 - Command input arrangements on the remote controller, e.g. joysticks or touch screens
• G05D 1/46 - Control of position or course in three dimensions
• G08G 5/00 - Traffic control systems for aircraft

Abstract

Batteries, battery components, and related methods and apparatus for mitigating a thermal runaway event of a battery are disclosed. Examples disclosed herein include a battery including an enclosure defining a cavity, the enclosure including a first end wall and a second end wall opposite the first end wall, a battery cell disposed in the cavity of the enclosure, a load spreader disposed in the cavity of the enclosure, the load spreader spaced from the first end wall, the battery cell disposed between the load spreader and the second end wall of the enclosure, the load spreader at least partially compressing the battery cell between the load spreader and the second end wall.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 10/613 - Cooling or keeping cold
• H01M 10/0525 - Rocking-chair batteries, i.e. batteries with lithium insertion or intercalation in both electrodesLithium-ion batteries
• H01M 10/625 - Vehicles
• H01M 10/6555 - Rods or plates arranged between the cells
• H01M 10/6557 - Solid parts with flow channel passages or pipes for heat exchange arranged between the cells
• H01M 50/204 - Racks, modules or packs for multiple batteries or multiple cells
• H01M 50/233 - MountingsSecondary casings or framesRacks, modules or packsSuspension devicesShock absorbersTransport or carrying devicesHolders characterised by physical properties of casings or racks, e.g. dimensions
• H01M 50/253 - MountingsSecondary casings or framesRacks, modules or packsSuspension devicesShock absorbersTransport or carrying devicesHolders adapted for specific cells, e.g. electrochemical cells operating at high temperature

Abstract

Techniques for traversing in an environment that includes at least one obstacle, by a mobile autonomous system, to a destination in the environment, are presented. The techniques can include generating, prior to the mobile autonomous system commencing activity in the environment, a graph including a plurality of vertices representing positions in the environment and a plurality of edges between vertices representing feasible transitions by the mobile autonomous vehicle in the environment; annotating the graph with at least one edge connecting a representation of a present position of the mobile autonomous system to a vertex of the graph; determining, based on the graph, a path from the present position of the mobile autonomous system in the environment to the destination; and traversing the environment to the destination, by the mobile autonomous system, based on the path.

IPC Classes  ?

• G05D 1/693 - Coordinated control of the position or course of two or more vehicles for avoiding collisions between vehicles
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• G01C 21/00 - NavigationNavigational instruments not provided for in groups
• G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude or attitude of land, water, air or space vehicles, e.g. using automatic pilots
• G06Q 10/047 - Optimisation of routes or paths, e.g. travelling salesman problem
• G06Q 10/0631 - Resource planning, allocation, distributing or scheduling for enterprises or organisations
• G06Q 50/40 - Business processes related to the transportation industry

Abstract

Presented are passive temperature control systems for thermal management of electrical components, methods for making/using such thermal management systems, and aircraft equipped with smart-material activated temperature control systems for passive cooling of battery modules. A thermal management system is presented for passively cooling an electrical component stored inside a module housing. The thermal management system includes a cooling chamber that movably attaches adjacent a module housing that contains an electrical component, such as a rechargeable battery module. The cooling chamber contains a sublimable cooling agent, such as dry ice. A biasing member biases the cooling chamber away from the module housing. A smart material actuator is attached to and interposed between the cooling chamber and module housing. The smart material actuator extracts thermal energy from the module housing and, once heated to a phase transformation temperature, contracts and thereby pulls the cooling chamber into contact with the module housing.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64D 13/00 - Arrangements or adaptations of air-treatment apparatus for aircraft crew or passengers, or freight space
• B60L 50/60 - Electric propulsion with power supplied within the vehicle using propulsion power supplied by batteries or fuel cells using power supplied by batteries
• B60L 58/26 - Methods or circuit arrangements for monitoring or controlling batteries or fuel cells, specially adapted for electric vehicles for monitoring or controlling batteries for controlling the temperature of batteries by cooling
• B64D 27/24 - Aircraft characterised by the type or position of power plants using steam or spring force
• H01M 6/50 - Methods or arrangements for servicing or maintenance, e.g. for maintaining operating temperature
• H01M 10/613 - Cooling or keeping cold
• H01M 10/625 - Vehicles
• H01M 50/249 - MountingsSecondary casings or framesRacks, modules or packsSuspension devicesShock absorbersTransport or carrying devicesHolders specially adapted for aircraft or vehicles, e.g. cars or trains
• H05K 7/20 - Modifications to facilitate cooling, ventilating, or heating

Abstract

Batteries, battery components, and related methods and apparatus for mitigating a thermal runaway event of a battery are disclosed. Examples disclosed herein include a battery including an enclosure defining a cavity, the enclosure including a first end wall and a second end wall opposite the first end wall, a battery cell disposed in the cavity of the enclosure, a load spreader disposed in the cavity of the enclosure, the load spreader spaced from the first end wall, the battery cell disposed between the load spreader and the second end wall of the enclosure, the load spreader at least partially compressing the battery cell between the load spreader and the second end wall.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 10/613 - Cooling or keeping cold
• H01M 10/0525 - Rocking-chair batteries, i.e. batteries with lithium insertion or intercalation in both electrodesLithium-ion batteries
• H01M 10/625 - Vehicles
• H01M 10/6555 - Rods or plates arranged between the cells
• H01M 10/6557 - Solid parts with flow channel passages or pipes for heat exchange arranged between the cells
• H01M 50/204 - Racks, modules or packs for multiple batteries or multiple cells
• H01M 50/233 - MountingsSecondary casings or framesRacks, modules or packsSuspension devicesShock absorbersTransport or carrying devicesHolders characterised by physical properties of casings or racks, e.g. dimensions
• H01M 50/253 - MountingsSecondary casings or framesRacks, modules or packsSuspension devicesShock absorbersTransport or carrying devicesHolders adapted for specific cells, e.g. electrochemical cells operating at high temperature

Abstract

Example air vehicles including freewings and related methods are disclosed herein. An example air vehicle includes a fuselage; a freewing coupled to the fuselage, the freewing pivotable relative to the fuselage; and a rotor carried by the freewing, the rotor pivotable independently of the freewing.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 29/00 - Aircraft capable of landing or taking-off vertically, e.g. vertical take-off and landing [VTOL] aircraft
• B64C 27/58 - Transmitting means, e.g. interrelated with initiating means or means acting on blades
• B64C 3/38 - Adjustment of complete wings or parts thereof
• B64C 27/08 - Helicopters with two or more rotors
• B64C 9/04 - Adjustable control surfaces or members, e.g. rudders with compound dependent movements
• B64C 13/24 - Transmitting means

Abstract

A method, apparatus, system, and computer program product for managing vertiport resources. A capacity for handling air traffic at a vertiport is determined. An allocation of arrival slots, departure slots, and service slots for the air traffic using the vertiport is managed based on the capacity determined for the vertiport.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08G 5/00 - Traffic control systems for aircraft

Abstract

A method is provided for detecting and avoiding conflict during a mission of a robot that includes a global route of travel. The method includes monitoring a state of the robot and a state of an environment of the robot as the robot travels the global route. The method includes generating a local route of travel through a region of the environment that includes the robot, the region having a size and shape that are set based on a type of the robot and the state of the robot when the local route is generated. A measure of uncertainty in the perception of objects in the region is monitored based on the state of the environment. And the robot is caused to maintain the global route or transition to the local route based on a comparison of the measure of uncertainty and an uncertainty threshold.

IPC Classes  ?

• G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude or attitude of land, water, air or space vehicles, e.g. using automatic pilots

Abstract

The aerospace component joints comprise a first component member comprising a first bonding face, a second component member comprising a second bonding face, one or more bond-enhancing features, and an adhesive layer forming a bond between the first and second bonding faces. The one or more bond-enhancing features comprises a plurality of reinforcing protrusions integral with the first component member, projecting from the first bonding face through the adhesive layer, and into the component member and/or one or more adhesive-receiving recesses defined in the first or second bonding faces and filled by the adhesive layer. The methods of preparing a component member for an aerospace component joint comprise integrating one or more bond-enhancing features into the component member. The methods of forming the aerospace component joint comprise positioning and adhesive-bonding the first bonding face to the second bonding face, and integrating the bond-enhancing feature(s) into the aerospace component joint.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 1/12 - Construction or attachment of skin panels
• B64C 1/26 - Attaching the wing or tail units or stabilising surfaces
• B29C 65/54 - Applying the adhesive between pre-assembled parts

Abstract

Methods and apparatus are disclosed for deployable wing portions of an aircraft. An example method of deploying an aircraft includes separating the aircraft from a launch vehicle, the aircraft having a wing pivotably coupled to a fuselage, rotating, about an axis of rotation, the wing relative to the fuselage from a first rotational orientation to a second rotational orientation different from the first rotational orientation, wherein, in the first rotational orientation, the wing extends along a direction that substantially aligns with a longitudinal axis of the fuselage, and extending the wing in a lateral direction away from the fuselage in the second rotational orientation.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 3/56 - Folding or collapsing to reduce overall dimensions of aircraft
• B64D 17/80 - Parachutes in association with aircraft, e.g. for braking thereof
• B64C 3/30 - Wings comprising inflatable structural components
• B64C 3/18 - SparsRibsStringers

Abstract

A method is provided for horizon detection. The method includes acquiring an image that depicts a view of an environment, and defining a line pattern of lines that divide the image into respective pairs of image segments. The line pattern is formed of lines that are parallel, or intersecting at a common point of intersection. The method includes searching the lines of the line pattern to identify one of the lines as an estimated true horizon in the image that divides the image into a respective pair of image segments at a boundary of greatest difference in average brightness between the image segments from among the respective pairs of image segments. The method includes determining true horizon in the image from the estimated true horizon. The method may also include an evaluation of the estimated true horizon or the true horizon as to verify one or more expected characteristics.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• G06T 7/12 - Edge-based segmentation
• G06T 7/13 - Edge detection
• G06T 7/174 - SegmentationEdge detection involving the use of two or more images
• G06V 10/26 - Segmentation of patterns in the image fieldCutting or merging of image elements to establish the pattern region, e.g. clustering-based techniquesDetection of occlusion
• G06V 10/60 - Extraction of image or video features relating to illumination properties, e.g. using a reflectance or lighting model
• B64U 101/30 - UAVs specially adapted for particular uses or applications for imaging, photography or videography

Abstract

A method is provided for supporting operations of an unmanned air vehicle (UAV) on a flight in an airspace system. The method includes receiving instructions that describe a cleared path the UAV is authorized by an air navigation service provider (ANSP) to travel through the airspace system. The method includes determining guidance modes of the UAV based on the instructions, and engaging the guidance modes in which the UAV is caused to perform the procedures to carry out the flight. The guidance modes indicate procedures of the UAV, the guidance modes including lateral flight modes and vertical flight modes, that are subject to rules defined by the ANSP for travel through the airspace system under instrument flight rules (IFR), and the lateral flight modes and the vertical flight modes are separate and independent from one another.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08G 5/00 - Traffic control systems for aircraft
• G05D 1/10 - Simultaneous control of position or course in three dimensions
• G08G 5/06 - Traffic control systems for aircraft for control when on the ground
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use

Abstract

A method is provided for supporting an aircraft to execute a mission in which the aircraft maneuvers in an airspace system. The method includes detecting a lost-link event in which a datalink between the aircraft and a control station is interrupted or lost, and responsive to which the aircraft is preconfigured to execute a procedure. The method also includes conveying an intent of the aircraft to execute the procedure over a radio channel assigned for voice communication in the airspace system. In this regard, conveying the intent includes composing a message that indicates the intent of the aircraft to execute the procedure. The message is applied to a text-to-speech engine to convert the message to a corresponding verbal message in which the intent of the aircraft is conveyed. The corresponding verbal message is then sent over the radio channel assigned for voice communication in the airspace system.

IPC Classes  ?

• G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude or attitude of land, water, air or space vehicles, e.g. using automatic pilots
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• B64U 101/00 - UAVs specially adapted for particular uses or applications
• G08G 5/00 - Traffic control systems for aircraft

Abstract

An aircraft and a control system for the aircraft includes a tilt-wing defining an inlet configured to receive air and an outlet in fluid communication with the inlet such that the outlet is configured to expel the air. The control system includes a high-lift device coupled to at least one of a leading edge, and a trailing edge of the tilt-wing. The high-lift device is movable relative to the tilt-wing. The control system includes a compressor in fluid communication with the inlet and the outlet. The compressor is configured to increase pressure of the air that is expelled out of the outlet. The outlet directs the pressurized air toward at least one of the high-lift device and a center section of the tilt-wing to maintain attachment of airflow across the tilt-wing. A method of operating the control system of the aircraft occurs to maintain attachment of airflow across the tilt-wing.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 21/08 - Influencing air flow over aircraft surfaces by affecting boundary layer flow by use of slot, ducts, porous areas or the like adjustable
• B64C 29/00 - Aircraft capable of landing or taking-off vertically, e.g. vertical take-off and landing [VTOL] aircraft
• B64C 21/02 - Influencing air flow over aircraft surfaces by affecting boundary layer flow by use of slot, ducts, porous areas or the like
• B64C 9/00 - Adjustable control surfaces or members, e.g. rudders
• B64D 35/04 - Transmitting power from power plants to propellers or rotorsArrangements of transmissions characterised by the transmission driving a plurality of propellers or rotors
• B64D 29/02 - Power-plant nacelles, fairings or cowlings associated with wings

Abstract

Techniques for establishing the sufficiency of a path planner to avoid multiple obstacles in planning a path from a starting location to a destination location is presented. The techniques can include: iterating, until a stopping condition occurs: obtaining, from the path planner, a path from the starting location to the destination location; representing the path from the starting location to the destination location as a disjunction of logical terms; conjoining the disjunction of terms to a conjunction of terms representing previously considered paths; determining a satisfiability condition of the conjunction of terms; and for a positive satisfiability condition, adding at least one corresponding obstacle of the plurality of obstacles to the path planner; and providing an indication of sufficiency of the path planner to avoid the obstacles in planning a path from the starting location to the destination location based on the stopping condition.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08G 5/00 - Traffic control systems for aircraft
• G08G 5/04 - Anti-collision systems

Abstract

Techniques for traversing in an environment that includes at least one obstacle, by a mobile autonomous system, to a destination in the environment, are presented. The techniques can include generating, prior to the mobile autonomous system commencing activity in the environment, a graph including a plurality of vertices representing positions in the environment and a plurality of edges between vertices representing feasible transitions by the mobile autonomous vehicle in the environment; annotating the graph with at least one edge connecting a representation of a present position of the mobile autonomous system to a vertex of the graph; determining, based on the graph, a path from the present position of the mobile autonomous system in the environment to the destination; and traversing the environment to the destination, by the mobile autonomous system, based on the path.

IPC Classes  ?

• G05D 1/10 - Simultaneous control of position or course in three dimensions
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• G01C 21/00 - NavigationNavigational instruments not provided for in groups
• G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude or attitude of land, water, air or space vehicles, e.g. using automatic pilots
• G06Q 10/047 - Optimisation of routes or paths, e.g. travelling salesman problem
• G06Q 10/0631 - Resource planning, allocation, distributing or scheduling for enterprises or organisations
• G06Q 50/30 - Transportation; Communications

Abstract

Examples include an apparatus for delivering a payload. The apparatus includes a first autonomous vehicle and a second autonomous vehicle that are configured to be coupled to an aircraft. The first autonomous vehicle includes a wing and a first propulsion system configured to deliver the second autonomous vehicle to a first destination. The second autonomous vehicle includes a payload and a second propulsion system configured to deliver the payload to a second destination.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64U 70/20 - Launching, take-off or landing arrangements for releasing or capturing UAVs in flight by another aircraft
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• B64D 1/12 - Releasing
• B64U 10/25 - Fixed-wing aircraft
• B64U 80/82 - Airborne vehicles
• B64U 101/60 - UAVs specially adapted for particular uses or applications for transporting passengersUAVs specially adapted for particular uses or applications for transporting goods other than weapons

Abstract

Spring-integrated rotors are disclosed. A disclosed example apparatus includes a bracket defining a first rotational axis and coupled to a motor for rotating the bracket about the first rotational axis, a pivot body defining a second rotational axis extending along a direction different than the first rotational axis, the pivot body coupled to the bracket for rotation about the second rotational axis, and at least one spring device positioned at the bracket, the at least one spring device urging the pivot body toward a central position when the bracket is rotating.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 27/00 - RotorcraftRotors peculiar thereto
• B64C 27/52 - Tilting of rotor bodily relative to fuselage
• B64C 27/35 - Rotors having elastomeric joints

Abstract

Waterjet cutting apparatus and related methods are disclosed herein. An example apparatus includes a tank defining a volume to contain a fluid therein, a fixture extending from the tank, and a tube extending from the tank, the tube to isolate the fixture and a part supported by the fixture from turbulence of the fluid disposed in the tank.

IPC Classes  ?

• B24C 1/04 - Methods for use of abrasive blasting for producing particular effectsUse of auxiliary equipment in connection with such methods for treating only selected parts of a surface, e.g. for carving stone or glass
• B24C 7/00 - Equipment for feeding abrasive materialControlling the flowability, constitution, or other physical characteristics of abrasive blasts
• B26F 3/00 - Severing by means other than cuttingApparatus therefor
• B26D 7/01 - Means for holding or positioning work

Abstract

A method is provided for detecting and avoiding conflict along a current route of a robot. The method includes accessing or determining trajectories of the robot and a nearby moving object forward in time from their respective current positions, and detecting a conflict from a comparison of the trajectories. The method includes selecting a maneuver to avoid the conflict, and outputting an indication of the maneuver for use in at least one of guidance, navigation or control of the robot to avoid the conflict. Selection of the maneuver includes determining a plurality of angles that describe the conflict such as those at which the robot and moving object observe one another, and/or an angle between their trajectories, and evaluating the plurality of angles to select the maneuver.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08G 5/00 - Traffic control systems for aircraft
• G05B 13/02 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion electric
• G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude or attitude of land, water, air or space vehicles, e.g. using automatic pilots
• G08G 5/04 - Anti-collision systems

Abstract

A digital video computing system receives two or more frames depicting an environment from a camera system of a vehicle. For a salient image feature identified in the two or more frames, a global motion vector is calculated that is indicative of movement of the feature at least partially attributable to movement of the vehicle. A local motion vector is calculated that is indicative of movement of the feature independent from the movement of the vehicle. Based on the local motion vector, the salient image feature is determined to have an apparent motion relative to the environment that is independent from the movement of the vehicle. A candidate image patch is identified including the salient image feature. The candidate image patch is analyzed to output a likelihood that the candidate image patch depicts a second vehicle.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06T 7/73 - Determining position or orientation of objects or cameras using feature-based methods
• G06T 7/246 - Analysis of motion using feature-based methods, e.g. the tracking of corners or segments
• G06T 7/269 - Analysis of motion using gradient-based methods

Abstract

In an example, a propulsion system for controlling maneuvers of a tilt rotor aircraft includes one or more processors and a non-transitory computer readable medium storing instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the propulsion system to perform functions. The functions include making a determination that changing an orientation of the tilt rotor aircraft is necessary to perform an instructed flight maneuver. The functions also include causing, in response to the determination, a rotor of the tilt rotor aircraft to provide a thrust, thereby applying a torque to the tilt rotor aircraft that changes the orientation of the tilt rotor aircraft.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 27/00 - RotorcraftRotors peculiar thereto
• B64C 27/57 - Mechanisms for controlling blade adjustment or movement relative to rotor head, e.g. lag-lead movement characterised by the control initiating means, e.g. manually actuated automatic or condition responsive, e.g. responsive to rotor speed, torque or thrust
• B64C 27/52 - Tilting of rotor bodily relative to fuselage
• G05D 1/08 - Control of attitude, i.e. control of roll, pitch, or yaw

Abstract

An autonomy system for use with a vehicle in an environment. The autonomy system comprising a processor operatively coupled with a memory device, a plurality of sensors operatively coupled with the processor; a vehicle controller, a situational awareness module, a task planning module, and a task execution module. The situational awareness module being configured to determine a state of the environment based at least in part on sensor data from at least one of the plurality of sensors. The task planning module being configured to identify, via the processor, a plurality of tasks to be performed by the vehicle and to generate a task assignment list from the plurality of tasks that is based at least in part on predetermined optimization criteria. The task execution module being configured to instruct the vehicle controller to execute the plurality of tasks in accordance with the task assignment list. The task execution module may be configured to monitor the vehicle or the vehicle controller during execution of the task assignment list to identify any errors.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• G08G 5/00 - Traffic control systems for aircraft
• G08G 5/02 - Automatic landing aids, i.e. systems in which flight data of incoming planes are processed to provide landing data
• G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude or attitude of land, water, air or space vehicles, e.g. using automatic pilots
• G05B 19/42 - Recording and playback systems, i.e. in which the programme is recorded from a cycle of operations, e.g. the cycle of operations being manually controlled, after which this record is played back on the same machine
• B64C 13/18 - Initiating means actuated automatically, e.g. responsive to gust detectors using automatic pilot
• B64D 31/06 - Initiating means actuated automatically
• G05B 19/042 - Programme control other than numerical control, i.e. in sequence controllers or logic controllers using digital processors
• G05D 1/10 - Simultaneous control of position or course in three dimensions
• B64U 10/10 - Rotorcrafts
• B64U 10/25 - Fixed-wing aircraft

Abstract

A cooling system is disclosed for cooling charge air in a turbocharged diesel internal combustion engine of an aircraft. The cooling system includes a charge air cooler, a charge air bypass valve, and a bypass valve actuator. The charge air cooler is fluidly coupled between the turbocharger assembly and the intake manifold, wherein the charge air cooler is configured to cool the charge air. The charge air bypass valve is moveable between a first position and a second position. The charge air bypass valve is configured to bypass the charge air cooler when in the second position. The bypass valve actuator is configured to move the charge air bypass valve between the first position and the second position.

IPC Classes  ?

• F02K 3/02 - Plants including a gas turbine driving a compressor or a ducted fan in which part of the working fluid by-passes the turbine and combustion chamber
• B64D 33/08 - Arrangement in aircraft of power plant parts or auxiliaries not otherwise provided for of power plant cooling systems
• B64D 27/02 - Aircraft characterised by the type or position of power plants
• B64D 33/02 - Arrangement in aircraft of power plant parts or auxiliaries not otherwise provided for of combustion air intakes

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to propulsion system for an aircraft. The propulsion system comprises a motor, a battery bank, a thermal management system, and a controller. The motor being configured to rotate a rotor via a rotor shaft and to drive the thermal management system. The thermal management system configured to urge fluid through a fluid pathway defined by the battery bank. The controller configured to drive the motor and/or control charge and discharge of the battery bank.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64D 27/24 - Aircraft characterised by the type or position of power plants using steam or spring force
• H01M 10/613 - Cooling or keeping cold
• H01M 10/625 - Vehicles
• H01M 10/6552 - Closed pipes transferring heat by thermal conductivity or phase transition, e.g. heat pipes

Abstract

A method is provided for supporting flight operations of an aircraft in an airspace system. The method includes accessing a flight plan that indicates clearances that describe a planned route the aircraft is authorized to travel through the airspace system. The clearances are applied to an airborne navigation database to map the clearances to a sequence of procedural legs of procedures to be followed by the aircraft, the sequence of procedural legs including a sequence of position fixes and indicating leg types of the procedural legs. A ground track and vertical guidance for the aircraft are determined from the sequence of procedural legs, subject to rules and constraints of the clearances and the procedures. And a three-dimensional trajectory for the aircraft that follows the planned route, from the ground track and the vertical guidance is generated and output for use in guidance, navigation or control of the aircraft.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08G 5/00 - Traffic control systems for aircraft
• G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude or attitude of land, water, air or space vehicles, e.g. using automatic pilots
• B64D 43/00 - Arrangements or adaptations of instruments

Abstract

A method is provided for detecting and avoiding conflict along a current route of a robot. The method includes accessing a trajectory of the robot on the current route of the robot, and a predicted trajectory of a nearby moving object, and from the trajectory and predicted trajectory, detecting a conflict between the robot and the nearby moving object. Alternate routes for the robot are determined, each of which includes an alternative route segment offset from the current route, and a transition segment from the current route to the alternative route segment. Routes including the current and alternative routes are evaluated according to a cost metric, and a route from the routes is selected for use in at least one of guidance, navigation or control of the robot to avoid the conflict.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08G 5/00 - Traffic control systems for aircraft
• G08G 5/04 - Anti-collision systems

Abstract

A method, apparatus, system, and computer program product for planning multimodal travel. A planning request for the multimodal travel from a first location to an second location is received. Candidate routes are determined for a passenger that is customized for a set of customization parameters a using the first location, the second location, and a set of passenger preferences. A candidate route in the candidate routes comprises a first leg from the first location to a first vertiport via a first modality, a second leg for a passenger air vehicle to travel from the first vertiport to a second vertiport using an air modality, and a third leg from the second vertiport to the second location using a second modality. The candidate route in the candidate routes is selected to form a route for the multimodal travel for the passenger when a user input is received selecting the candidate route.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01C 21/34 - Route searchingRoute guidance
• G01C 21/36 - Input/output arrangements for on-board computers
• B64F 1/36 - Other airport installations

Abstract

Technology segments an input flight path into segments based on terrain data, identifies target altitude heights of endpoints of the segments based on the terrain data and a target cruise altitude of an aircraft, identifies local maximas associated with the segments that are arranged in an order along the input flight path, identifies one or more local maximas of the local maximas that represent a dip in altitude from a previous one or more of the local maximas, removes the one or more local maximas from the plurality of local maximas to generate a reduced list of local maximas, sets a plurality of waypoints as the endpoints and the local maximas in the reduced list of local maximas, generates a flight path based at least in part on the plurality of waypoints, and causes the flight path to be provided to the at aircraft.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01C 21/20 - Instruments for performing navigational calculations

Abstract

A system includes a first sensor configured to detect an object within an air space, and output an observation signal indicative of the object within the air space. A second sensor is configured to track the object within the air space, and output a tracking signal of the object within the air space. A tracking control unit is in communication with the first sensor and the second sensor. The tracking control unit is configured to receive the observation signal from the first sensor. In response to receiving the observation signal from the first sensor, the tracking control unit is configured to operate the second sensor to track the object within the air space relative to an aircraft within the air space. The tracking control unit is also configured to determine a priority of actions to take in relation to the object based, at least in part, on the tracking signal received from the second sensor.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08G 5/00 - Traffic control systems for aircraft
• G01S 17/933 - Lidar systems, specially adapted for specific applications for anti-collision purposes of aircraft or spacecraft
• G06F 11/07 - Responding to the occurrence of a fault, e.g. fault tolerance
• G06F 11/30 - Monitoring
• G06V 20/17 - Terrestrial scenes taken from planes or by drones

Abstract

A method, apparatus, system, and computer program product for operating air vehicles. Missions for the air vehicles are grouped into categories based on durations of the missions. The missions within the categories are clustered into subsets of the missions that can be concurrently performed to meet a set of mission performance criteria. The subsets of the missions are assigned to a set of air vehicle supervisors.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08G 5/04 - Anti-collision systems
• G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude or attitude of land, water, air or space vehicles, e.g. using automatic pilots
• G06Q 10/063 - Operations research, analysis or management
• G08G 5/00 - Traffic control systems for aircraft

Abstract

An apparatus is provided that includes a string of power sources and step-down circuitry. The power sources are connected in series to provide a first voltage rail at a first voltage, and the string of power sources is divided into power-source segments. The step-down circuitry electrically is configured to provide a second voltage rail at a second, lesser voltage. The step-down circuitry includes control circuitry configured to monitor states of charge of the power-source segments, and control selection of one of the power-source segments to deliver an output from which the second voltage rail is provided, based on the states of charge. One or more first electronic components are electrically coupled to the first voltage rail, and designed to operate at the first voltage. And one or more second electronic components are electrically coupled to the second voltage rail, and designed to operate at the second voltage.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64D 27/24 - Aircraft characterised by the type or position of power plants using steam or spring force
• H02M 3/04 - Conversion of DC power input into DC power output without intermediate conversion into AC by static converters
• H02J 7/00 - Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries

Abstract

A vehicle is provided that includes a basic structure; and coupled to the basic structure, a plurality of power sources, a propulsion system and power distribution circuitry. The propulsion system includes a plurality of electric motors configured to power a plurality of propulsors to generate propulsive forces that cause the vehicle to move. The power distribution circuitry is configured to deliver direct current electric power from the plurality of power sources to the plurality of electric motors. The power distribution circuitry electrically couples the plurality of power sources to the plurality of electric motors in an interleaved topology in which electric motors of the plurality of electric motors are alternately, electrically coupled to power sources of the plurality of power sources. Each of the electric motors in the interleaved topology is electrically coupled to a different one of the power sources than immediately adjacent ones of the electric motors.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64D 31/00 - Power plant control systemsArrangement of power plant control systems in aircraft
• B64D 27/24 - Aircraft characterised by the type or position of power plants using steam or spring force
• B60L 50/00 - Electric propulsion with power supplied within the vehicle

Abstract

A method of operating a cabin monitoring system. The cabin monitoring system can determine that an object is associated with an individual. The cabin monitoring system can further determine that the individual is exiting an area that includes the object. The cabin monitoring system can further include transmitting an alert to an output device based on determining that the individual is exiting the area that includes the object. The alert can indicate that the object has been left in the area.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08B 21/24 - Reminder alarms, e.g. anti-loss alarms
• G08B 7/06 - Signalling systems according to more than one of groups Personal calling systems according to more than one of groups using electric transmission
• G06V 20/59 - Context or environment of the image inside of a vehicle, e.g. relating to seat occupancy, driver state or inner lighting conditions
• G06V 40/10 - Human or animal bodies, e.g. vehicle occupants or pedestriansBody parts, e.g. hands
• G06V 40/20 - Movements or behaviour, e.g. gesture recognition
• G06T 7/70 - Determining position or orientation of objects or cameras
• G06T 7/20 - Analysis of motion
• G06N 20/00 - Machine learning
• G06V 10/74 - Image or video pattern matchingProximity measures in feature spaces

Abstract

Methods and apparatus for thermal management of batteries are disclosed herein. An example battery disclosed herein includes a housing defining a cavity and a battery cell disposed in the cavity of the housing. The battery cell has a terminal. The battery further includes a bus bar disposed in the cavity of the housing. The bus bar is coupled to the terminal. A fluid channel formed in the bus bar. The fluid channel is to receive a cooling fluid to cool the bus bar and reduce a temperature of the battery.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 10/6556 - Solid parts with flow channel passages or pipes for heat exchange
• H01M 10/613 - Cooling or keeping cold
• H01M 10/625 - Vehicles
• H01M 10/647 - Prismatic or flat cells, e.g. pouch cells
• H01M 10/6568 - Liquids characterised by flow circuits, e.g. loops, located externally to the cells or cell casings
• H01M 50/505 - Interconnectors for connecting terminals of adjacent batteriesInterconnectors for connecting cells outside a battery casing comprising a single busbar

Abstract

Presented are passive temperature control systems for thermal management of electrical components, methods for making/using such thermal management systems, and aircraft equipped with smart-material activated temperature control systems for passive cooling of battery modules. A thermal management system is presented for passively cooling an electrical component stored inside a module housing. The thermal management system includes a cooling chamber that movably attaches adjacent a module housing that contains an electrical component, such as a rechargeable battery module. The cooling chamber contains a sublimable cooling agent, such as dry ice. A biasing member biases the cooling chamber away from the module housing. A smart material actuator is attached to and interposed between the cooling chamber and module housing. The smart material actuator extracts thermal energy from the module housing and, once heated to a phase transformation temperature, contracts and thereby pulls the cooling chamber into contact with the module housing.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64D 13/00 - Arrangements or adaptations of air-treatment apparatus for aircraft crew or passengers, or freight space
• B60L 50/60 - Electric propulsion with power supplied within the vehicle using propulsion power supplied by batteries or fuel cells using power supplied by batteries
• B60L 58/26 - Methods or circuit arrangements for monitoring or controlling batteries or fuel cells, specially adapted for electric vehicles for monitoring or controlling batteries for controlling the temperature of batteries by cooling
• B64D 27/24 - Aircraft characterised by the type or position of power plants using steam or spring force
• H01M 6/50 - Methods or arrangements for servicing or maintenance, e.g. for maintaining operating temperature
• H01M 10/613 - Cooling or keeping cold
• H01M 10/625 - Vehicles
• H01M 50/249 - MountingsSecondary casings or framesRacks, modules or packsSuspension devicesShock absorbersTransport or carrying devicesHolders specially adapted for aircraft or vehicles, e.g. cars or trains
• H05K 7/20 - Modifications to facilitate cooling, ventilating, or heating

Abstract

Aircraft and related methods are disclosed. In one example, an aircraft comprises an airframe comprising one or more wings, one or more pusher rotors supported by the airframe, and one or more puller rotors supported by the airframe, wherein the one or more puller rotors are positioned behind the one or more pusher rotors. In another example, a method for loading cargo on to an aircraft comprises loading cargo into a fuselage of the aircraft through an upper forward portion of the fuselage.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 29/00 - Aircraft capable of landing or taking-off vertically, e.g. vertical take-off and landing [VTOL] aircraft
• B64C 1/22 - Other structures integral with fuselages to facilitate loading
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• B64D 1/10 - Stowage arrangements for the devices in aircraft
• B64C 39/08 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for having multiple wings
• B64U 101/60 - UAVs specially adapted for particular uses or applications for transporting passengersUAVs specially adapted for particular uses or applications for transporting goods other than weapons

Abstract

An aircraft rotor assembly comprises first and second rotors and a drive assembly. The first and second rotors are rotatable about a common axis synchronously and with respect to each other. The first rotor has a first blade extending radially from the common axis; the second rotor has a second blade extending radially from the common axis, longitudinally offset from the first blade along the common axis. The drive assembly is coupled to the first and second rotors and configured to controllably vary, during continuous rotation of the first and second rotors, a differential phase angle separating the first and second blades as projected onto a plane perpendicular to the common axis.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 11/48 - Units of two or more coaxial propellers
• B64C 29/00 - Aircraft capable of landing or taking-off vertically, e.g. vertical take-off and landing [VTOL] aircraft
• B64D 31/00 - Power plant control systemsArrangement of power plant control systems in aircraft
• B64D 27/24 - Aircraft characterised by the type or position of power plants using steam or spring force

Abstract

A manufacturing system for processing workpieces includes a manufacturing cell, a plurality of pallets supporting workpieces, and at least one robotic device configured to operate on the workpieces. The manufacturing system also includes first and second processing stations configured to support any one of the pallets in fixed position relative to the robotic device. The manufacturing system additionally includes at least one transport device configured to transport any one of the pallets to and from each of the first and the second processing stations. In addition, the manufacturing system includes a controller configured to coordinate the operation of the manufacturing cell in a manner allowing the robotic device to continuously operate on a workpiece supported by a pallet at the first processing station, while another pallet is transported to or from the second processing station.

IPC Classes  ?

• B23Q 7/14 - Arrangements for handling work specially combined with or arranged in, or specially adapted for use in connection with, machine tools, e.g. for conveying, loading, positioning, discharging, sorting co-ordinated in production lines
• B23Q 3/08 - Work-clamping means other than mechanically-actuated

Abstract

A production utilization planner (PUP) core for a manufacturing cell has a simulation manager configured to simulate the processing of workpieces arranged in a workpiece order, by performing the steps of: creating an instance of a simulation controller and an instance of a software model of the manufacturing cell, determining a next timed action to be performed by state machines, incrementing the simulation to the next timed action, updating the software model and the simulation controller each time a state machine performs a timed action, and repeating the steps of determining the next timed action, incrementing the simulation, and updating the software model and the simulation controller, until all of the workpieces have been processed. The simulation manager is configured to output a simulated completion time for processing the workpiece order.

IPC Classes  ?

• G05B 19/418 - Total factory control, i.e. centrally controlling a plurality of machines, e.g. direct or distributed numerical control [DNC], flexible manufacturing systems [FMS], integrated manufacturing systems [IMS] or computer integrated manufacturing [CIM]

Abstract

The present disclosure provides systems, apparatuses, and methods relating to a fan apparatus including a lift fan mounted in a duct and a cover for the lift fan. In some examples, a fan apparatus has a louvered cover including louvers having different chord lengths and/or different projection distances relative to one another when the louvers are in an intermediate (transitional) position. In some examples, a fan apparatus includes a louver actuation assembly configured to move louvers of the fan apparatus rotationally and translationally between open and closed positions. In some examples, a fan apparatus includes a fluid-actuated sealing assembly configured to form a seal between a sealing member and a cover, such as a louvered cover.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 29/00 - Aircraft capable of landing or taking-off vertically, e.g. vertical take-off and landing [VTOL] aircraft
• B64C 3/38 - Adjustment of complete wings or parts thereof
• B64C 21/02 - Influencing air flow over aircraft surfaces by affecting boundary layer flow by use of slot, ducts, porous areas or the like
• F02K 1/00 - Plants characterised by the form or arrangement of the jet pipe or nozzleJet pipes or nozzles peculiar thereto

Abstract

A method, apparatus, system, and computer program product for operating an aerial imaging system. A first altitude of a first aircraft is determined, by a computer system, using first images of a key point generated by the first aircraft during a flight and stereo depth triangulation. The first altitude is compared with a second altitude of a second aircraft determined by the second aircraft, by the computer system, to form a comparison. An offset between the first altitude and the second altitude is determined, by the computer system, using the comparison. At least one of the first altitude or the second altitude is adjusted based on the offset. A plurality of images of a region from the first aircraft at the first altitude and from the second aircraft at the second altitude is obtained.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08G 5/00 - Traffic control systems for aircraft
• B64C 27/00 - RotorcraftRotors peculiar thereto
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• B64G 1/00 - Cosmonautic vehicles
• G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude or attitude of land, water, air or space vehicles, e.g. using automatic pilots
• G06T 7/593 - Depth or shape recovery from multiple images from stereo images

Abstract

In an example, a rotor for an electric motor includes an inner hub, an outer rim, and a plurality of slats. Each slat of the plurality of slats has a first end at the inner hub and a second end at the outer rim. The rotor is configured to drive a plurality of propeller blades that provide force for an aerial vehicle. Additionally or alternatively, a rotor for an electric motor includes a housing that includes a first retaining structure and a second retaining structure that are configured to apply a force that is directed radially outward against a magnet to hold the magnet against the housing. The rotor is configured to drive a plurality of propeller blades that provide force for an aerial vehicle.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02K 1/27 - Rotor cores with permanent magnets
• B64C 11/02 - Hub construction
• B64U 30/20 - RotorsRotor supports
• B64U 50/19 - Propulsion using electrically powered motors
• H02K 1/2786 - Outer rotors
• H02K 1/2793 - Rotors axially facing stators
• H02K 9/06 - Arrangements for cooling or ventilating by ambient air flowing through the machine having means for generating a flow of cooling medium with fans or impellers driven by the machine shaft

Abstract

A propeller assembly including a shaft having a rotational axis; a plurality of propellers connected to the shaft; means for deploying the plurality of propellers using a centrifugal force generated from a rotation of the shaft, so as to provide vertical thrust during a vertical take-off and landing of the aircraft; and means for restoring the propellers into a stowed configuration.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 27/30 - Compound rotorcraft, i.e. aircraft using in flight the features of both aeroplane and rotorcraft with provision for reducing drag of inoperative rotor
• B64C 29/00 - Aircraft capable of landing or taking-off vertically, e.g. vertical take-off and landing [VTOL] aircraft
• B64D 27/24 - Aircraft characterised by the type or position of power plants using steam or spring force

Abstract

An example of the present disclosure provides a stereo camera assembly of an object tracking system. The stereo camera assembly comprises a wide-angle lens camera mounted on a mounting structure and a telephoto lens camera mounted on the mounting structure such that a field of view of the telephoto lens camera is at least partially encompassed by a field of view of the wide-angle lens camera.

IPC Classes  ?

• G02B 13/06 - Panoramic objectivesSo-called "sky lenses"
• B60R 11/04 - Mounting of cameras operative during driveArrangement of controls thereof relative to the vehicle
• G03B 35/18 - Stereoscopic photography by simultaneous viewing

Abstract

A hub assembly having a first hub subassembly, a second hub subassembly, and a rotary guide. The first hub subassembly rotates a first blade assembly about an axis of rotation in a first plane. The second hub subassembly rotates a second blade assembly about the axis of rotation in a second plane. The rotary guide controls an axial position of the second hub subassembly relative to the first hub subassembly about the axis of rotation. The rotary guide is configured to adjust the axial position as a function of a lifting force generated by the first blade assembly or the second blade assembly.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 27/473 - Constructional features
• B64C 27/30 - Compound rotorcraft, i.e. aircraft using in flight the features of both aeroplane and rotorcraft with provision for reducing drag of inoperative rotor
• B64C 29/00 - Aircraft capable of landing or taking-off vertically, e.g. vertical take-off and landing [VTOL] aircraft
• B64C 27/50 - Blades foldable to facilitate stowage of aircraft

Abstract

An example method includes identifying a degraded visual environment corresponding to a phase of a route followed by the vehicle. The method includes determining, based on the phase of the route, a first segment of a trajectory of the vehicle along which to search for a location with an improved navigation environment. The method includes causing the vehicle to follow the first segment until: (i) identifying the improved navigation environment, or (ii) reaching an end of the first segment without identifying the improved navigation environment. The method includes determining a second segment of the trajectory based on whether the improved navigation environment has been identified. The method includes causing the vehicle to follow the second segment.

IPC Classes  ?

• G05D 1/10 - Simultaneous control of position or course in three dimensions
• B64D 45/04 - Landing aidsSafety measures to prevent collision with earth's surface
• B64D 47/08 - Arrangements of cameras
• G01S 7/497 - Means for monitoring or calibrating

Abstract

A method of controlling a vehicle includes detecting, by an optical sensor, a movement of at least one object in a field of view of the optical sensor. The method further includes identifying, by a processor circuit, a pattern based on the movement of the at least one object. The method further includes determining, by the processor circuit based on the pattern, a vehicle command to be performed by the vehicle.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08G 5/06 - Traffic control systems for aircraft for control when on the ground
• B64F 1/00 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations
• G05D 1/02 - Control of position or course in two dimensions

Abstract

A navigation system for an aircraft includes a light source, a light sensor, one or more processors, and a computer readable medium storing instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the navigation system to perform functions. The functions include illuminating a surface using the light source to cause light to be reflected from the surface and detecting the light and generating data representing the light using the light sensor. The data maps intensities of the light to respective positions on the surface. The functions further include identifying within the data a subset of the data that corresponds to a border and causing navigation of the aircraft based on a position of the border indicated by the subset of the data.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08G 5/00 - Traffic control systems for aircraft
• B64D 47/02 - Arrangements or adaptations of signal or lighting devices
• G01S 17/88 - Lidar systems, specially adapted for specific applications
• G01S 17/89 - Lidar systems, specially adapted for specific applications for mapping or imaging
• G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude or attitude of land, water, air or space vehicles, e.g. using automatic pilots
• G05D 1/437 - Control of position or course in two dimensions for aircraft during their ground movement
• G08G 5/02 - Automatic landing aids, i.e. systems in which flight data of incoming planes are processed to provide landing data

Abstract

A method of supporting robot(s) landing within a ground region is provided. The method includes accessing a map in which the ground region is tessellated into cells covering respective areas of the ground region. Each cell is classified as feasible to indicate a respective area is feasible for landing, or infeasible to indicate the respective area is infeasible for landing. The map is searched for clusters of adjoining cells that are classified as feasible, covering clusters of adjoining areas that define sub-regions within the ground region that are feasible for landing. The sub-regions are ranked according to a cost metric, and one of the sub-regions is selected according to the ranking. A geographic position of the selected sub-region is then output for use in at least one of guidance, navigation or control of the robot(s) to land at the selected sub-region within the ground region.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01C 21/00 - NavigationNavigational instruments not provided for in groups
• G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude or attitude of land, water, air or space vehicles, e.g. using automatic pilots
• G06F 17/16 - Matrix or vector computation
• G06F 18/232 - Non-hierarchical techniques
• G06V 20/13 - Satellite images

Abstract

A method is provided for supporting a robot in response to a contingency event. The method includes detecting the contingency event during travel of the robot on a route to a destination. In response, the method includes determining a position of the robot, and accessing information about alternate destinations associated with the route. The method includes selecting an alternate destination from the alternate destinations based on a time to travel from the position of the robot to the alternate destination, and the information. And the method includes outputting an indication of the alternate destination for use in at least one of guidance, navigation or control of the robot to the alternate destination.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08G 5/00 - Traffic control systems for aircraft
• G01C 21/34 - Route searchingRoute guidance
• G06F 18/2413 - Classification techniques relating to the classification model, e.g. parametric or non-parametric approaches based on distances to training or reference patterns
• G08G 1/0968 - Systems involving transmission of navigation instructions to the vehicle
• G08G 5/02 - Automatic landing aids, i.e. systems in which flight data of incoming planes are processed to provide landing data
• G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude or attitude of land, water, air or space vehicles, e.g. using automatic pilots

Abstract

A method is provided for causing one or more robots to execute a mission. The method includes determining a behavior tree in which the mission is modeled, and causing the one or more robots to execute the mission using the behavior tree and a leaf node library. The behavior tree is expressed as a directed tree of nodes including a switch node, a trigger node representing a selected task, and action nodes representing others of the tasks. The switch node is connected to the trigger node and the action nodes in a parent-child relationship in which the trigger node and the action nodes are children of the switch node. The trigger node is a first of the children that, when ticked by the switch node, returns an identifier of one of the action nodes to trigger the switch node to next tick the one of the action nodes.

IPC Classes  ?

• G05B 19/4155 - Numerical control [NC], i.e. automatically operating machines, in particular machine tools, e.g. in a manufacturing environment, so as to execute positioning, movement or co-ordinated operations by means of programme data in numerical form characterised by programme execution, i.e. part programme or machine function execution, e.g. selection of a programme
• G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude or attitude of land, water, air or space vehicles, e.g. using automatic pilots
• G05D 1/60 - Intended control result
• G06N 5/01 - Dynamic search techniquesHeuristicsDynamic treesBranch-and-bound
• G05D 101/10 - Details of software or hardware architectures used for the control of position using artificial intelligence [AI] techniques
• G05D 109/20 - Aircraft, e.g. drones

Abstract

A method and corresponding apparatus and computer-readable storage medium are provided for causing one or more robots to execute a mission. The method includes identifying the mission including a nominal sequence of selected tasks that are executable to cause the one or more robots to execute maneuvers to achieve a mission objective. The method includes determining a task graph in which the mission is modeled. The task graph is expressed as a directed graph and includes selected task nodes representing the selected tasks that are connected by edges representing transitions between the selected tasks. The method also includes causing the one or more robots to execute the mission using the task graph and a task library of tasks including a selected task executable to cause the one or more robots to execute a maneuver.

IPC Classes  ?

• G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude or attitude of land, water, air or space vehicles, e.g. using automatic pilots

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to battery system having a plurality of battery modules and a battery management system. The plurality of battery modules are arranged in series to define a battery string. Each of the plurality of battery modules comprises a supervisory circuit, one or more cell packs, and one or more switches to electrically connect the one or more cell packs to the battery string. The battery management system to selectively switch, for each of the plurality of battery modules, the one or more switches between a first position that electrically places the one or more cell packs in series with the battery string and a second position that electrically bypasses the one or more cell packs from the battery string. The battery management system is configured to electrically couple the battery string with a battery bus via a string switch.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02J 7/00 - Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries
• B60L 58/12 - Methods or circuit arrangements for monitoring or controlling batteries or fuel cells, specially adapted for electric vehicles for monitoring or controlling batteries responding to state of charge [SoC]
• B60L 50/60 - Electric propulsion with power supplied within the vehicle using propulsion power supplied by batteries or fuel cells using power supplied by batteries
• B60L 53/00 - Methods of charging batteries, specially adapted for electric vehiclesCharging stations or on-board charging equipment thereforExchange of energy storage elements in electric vehicles

Abstract

A system for facilitating navigation of an aircraft comprises one or more processors and a memory coupled to the processors. The memory stores data into a data store and program code that, when executed by the processors, causes the system to detect an infrared site signal indicating a site code transmitted by one or more infrared beacons that form a beacon network around a site. The site code represents a site. In response to detecting the infrared site signal, the system determines the site indicated by the site code. The system searches for two or more infrared beacon signals and detects the two or more infrared beacon signals. In response to detecting the two or more infrared beacon signals, the system determines a location of the aircraft based on the two or more infrared beacon signals.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08G 5/02 - Automatic landing aids, i.e. systems in which flight data of incoming planes are processed to provide landing data
• G01S 1/70 - Beacons or beacon systems transmitting signals having a characteristic or characteristics capable of being detected by non-directional receivers and defining directions, positions, or position lines fixed relatively to the beacon transmittersReceivers co-operating therewith using electromagnetic waves other than radio waves
• G08G 5/00 - Traffic control systems for aircraft
• H04B 10/60 - Receivers

Abstract

A method includes receiving a first image. The method also includes detecting a plurality of edges in the first image. The method also includes connecting the edges. The method also includes identifying a contour in the first image based at least partially upon the connected edges. The method also includes determining a convex hull of the contour. The method also includes generating a second image comprising the convex hull.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06T 7/12 - Edge-based segmentation
• G06T 7/136 - SegmentationEdge detection involving thresholding
• G06T 7/181 - SegmentationEdge detection involving edge growingSegmentationEdge detection involving edge linking
• G06T 7/13 - Edge detection
• G06T 7/155 - SegmentationEdge detection involving morphological operators

Abstract

A method includes identifying a first image that is captured at a first time. The method also includes segmenting the first image into a plurality of first image portions. The method also includes identifying a second image that is captured at a second time. The method also includes segmenting the second image into a plurality of second image portions. The method also includes comparing one of the plurality of first image portions and a corresponding one of the plurality of second image portions. The method also includes determining a difference between the first image and the second image based at least partially upon the comparison. The method also includes transforming the first image into a transformed first image based at least partially upon the difference.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06T 7/11 - Region-based segmentation
• G06T 7/174 - SegmentationEdge detection involving the use of two or more images
• G06T 3/00 - Geometric image transformations in the plane of the image
• G06T 7/20 - Analysis of motion

Abstract

A method includes identifying a first image. The method also includes determining a distribution based at least partially upon an intensity of each pixel in the first image. The method also includes determining that the distribution is bimodal. The method also includes dividing the first image to produce a second image in response to determining that the distribution is bimodal. The second image includes a plurality of first pixels and a plurality of second pixels. The method also includes determining that a horizon is defined between the plurality of first pixels and the plurality of second pixels.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06T 7/11 - Region-based segmentation
• G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude or attitude of land, water, air or space vehicles, e.g. using automatic pilots
• G06T 7/13 - Edge detection
• G06T 7/136 - SegmentationEdge detection involving thresholding
• G06T 7/90 - Determination of colour characteristics

Abstract

A method includes receiving a first image that is captured at a first time. The method also includes detecting a location of a first object in the first image. The method also includes determining a region of interest based at least partially upon the location of the first object in the first image. The method also includes receiving a second image that is captured at a second time. The method also includes identifying the region of interest in the second image. The method also includes detecting a location of a second object in a portion of the second image that is outside of the region of interest.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06V 10/20 - Image preprocessing
• G06F 18/20 - Analysing
• G06V 10/75 - Organisation of the matching processes, e.g. simultaneous or sequential comparisons of image or video featuresCoarse-fine approaches, e.g. multi-scale approachesImage or video pattern matchingProximity measures in feature spaces using context analysisSelection of dictionaries
• G06V 20/64 - Three-dimensional objects

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a reconfigurable battery system and method of operating the same. An example apparatus includes at least one memory, instructions in the apparatus, and processor circuitry to execute the instructions to determine a state of charge of a battery, determine a closed circuit voltage of the battery, determine a value of a parameter based on a ratio of the state of charge and the closed circuit voltage, and control a switch coupled to the battery based on the value of the parameter, the controlling of the switch to either cause the battery to be coupled to a battery string or cause the battery to be disconnected from the battery string.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 10/48 - Accumulators combined with arrangements for measuring, testing or indicating the condition of cells, e.g. the level or density of the electrolyte
• B60L 3/00 - Electric devices on electrically-propelled vehicles for safety purposesMonitoring operating variables, e.g. speed, deceleration or energy consumption
• B60L 8/00 - Electric propulsion with power supply from forces of nature, e.g. sun or wind
• B60L 58/12 - Methods or circuit arrangements for monitoring or controlling batteries or fuel cells, specially adapted for electric vehicles for monitoring or controlling batteries responding to state of charge [SoC]
• B64D 27/24 - Aircraft characterised by the type or position of power plants using steam or spring force
• B64U 10/25 - Fixed-wing aircraft
• B64U 20/80 - Arrangement of on-board electronics, e.g. avionics systems or wiring
• B64U 30/10 - Wings
• B64U 50/31 - Supply or distribution of electrical power generated by photovoltaics
• H01M 10/052 - Li-accumulators
• H01M 10/42 - Methods or arrangements for servicing or maintenance of secondary cells or secondary half-cells
• H01M 10/46 - Accumulators structurally combined with charging apparatus
• H02J 7/00 - Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries
• B64U 30/40 - Empennages, e.g. V-tails
• B64U 60/60 - Undercarriages with rolling cages

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a reconfigurable battery system and method of operating the same. The reconfigurable battery system comprising a plurality of switchable battery modules, a battery supervisory circuit, and a battery pack controller, where the plurality of switchable battery modules electrically arranged in series to define a battery string defining an output voltage. The battery pack controller operable to connect the battery string to the external bus via a pre-charge switch to perform a pre-charge cycle.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02J 7/00 - Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries
• B60L 53/00 - Methods of charging batteries, specially adapted for electric vehiclesCharging stations or on-board charging equipment thereforExchange of energy storage elements in electric vehicles
• H01M 10/44 - Methods for charging or discharging
• H01M 10/48 - Accumulators combined with arrangements for measuring, testing or indicating the condition of cells, e.g. the level or density of the electrolyte
• H01M 10/42 - Methods or arrangements for servicing or maintenance of secondary cells or secondary half-cells
• B64D 27/24 - Aircraft characterised by the type or position of power plants using steam or spring force
• B60L 8/00 - Electric propulsion with power supply from forces of nature, e.g. sun or wind
• H01M 10/46 - Accumulators structurally combined with charging apparatus

Abstract

Presented are passive-release, snap-fit coupling devices for attaching cargo to cargo suspension systems, methods for making/using such devices, and aircraft equipped with underbody suspension systems using passive-release, snap-fit coupling devices for securing payloads. An object mounting device is presented for securing an object, such as a cargo container, to a tether hook of a suspension system, such as an aircraft's payload suspension system. The object mounting device includes a base plate that affixes to the object, and a hook latch mounted onto the base plate. The hook latch includes a guide surface adjacent a catch cavity. The catch cavity releasably receives therein the tether hook. The guide surface is oriented at an oblique angle with respect to the base plate in order to slidably engage the tether hook, upon release from the catch cavity and under the force of gravity, to thereby eject the tether hook from the hook latch.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64D 1/12 - Releasing
• B64D 1/22 - Taking-up articles from earth's surface
• B64C 27/08 - Helicopters with two or more rotors
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use

Abstract

Presented are weight distribution systems for aircraft center of gravity (CG) management, methods for making/operating such systems, and aircraft equipped with CG management systems. A method is presented for managing the CG of an aircraft. The aircraft includes first and second landing gears and an airframe that removably attaches thereto one or more payloads and/or hardware modules. The method includes supporting the aircraft on a support leg that operatively attaches to the airframe and, while supported on the support leg, determining if the aircraft pivots onto the first or second landing gear. If the aircraft pivots onto either landing gear, the method responsively identifies a new airframe position for the payload/hardware module that will shift the aircraft's CG to within a calibrated “acceptable” CG range; doing so should balance the aircraft on the support leg. The payload/hardware module is then relocated to the new airframe position.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 17/02 - Aircraft stabilisation not otherwise provided for by gravity or inertia-actuated apparatus
• B64C 25/04 - Arrangement or disposition on aircraft
• G05D 1/10 - Simultaneous control of position or course in three dimensions
• G05D 1/08 - Control of attitude, i.e. control of roll, pitch, or yaw
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use

Abstract

A method, an apparatus, system, and computer program product for navigating an aircraft. Information indicative of a result of a scan of an environment around the aircraft is received by a computer system for landmarks. Bearings of the landmarks and locations of the landmarks are determined by the computer system. A current position of the aircraft is estimated by the computer system using the bearings of the landmarks and the locations of the landmarks. A set of actions to be performed is determined to guide the aircraft based on the current position of the aircraft is performed by the computer system.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01C 21/20 - Instruments for performing navigational calculations
• G06N 3/08 - Learning methods
• G08G 5/00 - Traffic control systems for aircraft
• G06V 20/13 - Satellite images
• G06N 7/01 - Probabilistic graphical models, e.g. probabilistic networks
• G06V 10/48 - Extraction of image or video features by mapping characteristic values of the pattern into a parameter space, e.g. Hough transformation

Abstract

Presented are corner attachment assemblies for cargo suspension systems, methods for making/using such assemblies, and aircraft equipped with underbody suspension systems using corner attachment assemblies for securing payload containers. Mounting assemblies are presented for securing objects to tether cables of suspension systems. A representative cargo mounting assembly includes a pair of shoulder clamps, each of which includes a flap that projects from a cup. Each shoulder clamp flap mechanically attaches, e.g., via a flap through-hole with a structurally reinforcing grommet, to a respective segment of a tether cable of a cargo suspension system. In addition, each shoulder clamp cup includes multiple noncoplanar, mutually adjoining contact surfaces. For instance, the cup may have a tetrahedral geometry with three mutually orthogonal, triangular-shaped contact surfaces. Each contact surface attaches, e.g., via a high-strength adhesive, to a respective surface of a corner of a cargo container.

IPC Classes  ?

• B66C 1/62 - Load-engaging elements or devices attached to lifting, lowering, or hauling gear of cranes, or adapted for connection therewith for transmitting forces to articles or groups of articles by mechanical means comprising article-engaging members of a shape complementary to that of the articles to be handled
• B66C 1/10 - Load-engaging elements or devices attached to lifting, lowering, or hauling gear of cranes, or adapted for connection therewith for transmitting forces to articles or groups of articles by mechanical means
• B66C 1/42 - Gripping members engaging only the external or internal surface of the articles
• B64D 1/22 - Taking-up articles from earth's surface
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use

Abstract

A fan apparatus is disclosed, including a duct having an inlet opening, a fan mounted in the duct, and a plurality of louver devices positioned at the inlet opening. Each louver device has an open position and a closed position, and adjacent louver devices define a plurality of airflow channels. Each airflow channel has a curvature profile that changes as the louver devices move between open and closed positions.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 11/00 - Propellers, e.g. of ducted typeFeatures common to propellers and rotors for rotorcraft
• B64C 29/00 - Aircraft capable of landing or taking-off vertically, e.g. vertical take-off and landing [VTOL] aircraft

Abstract

Conductive films comprising epoxy materials doped with graphene, and combined with a metal component to form a hybrid conductive surfacing film for use as lightning strike protection surfacing films for composite structures are disclosed, along with their methods of manufacture.

IPC Classes  ?

• C09D 5/24 - Electrically-conducting paints
• C09D 7/61 - Additives non-macromolecular inorganic
• C09D 163/00 - Coating compositions based on epoxy resinsCoating compositions based on derivatives of epoxy resins
• C09D 7/40 - Additives
• C08K 3/08 - Metals
• B05D 3/10 - Pretreatment of surfaces to which liquids or other fluent materials are to be appliedAfter-treatment of applied coatings, e.g. intermediate treating of an applied coating preparatory to subsequent applications of liquids or other fluent materials by other chemical means
• C08K 3/04 - Carbon
• C08K 7/00 - Use of ingredients characterised by shape

Abstract

An apparatus including a thrust vectoring system including a centrifugal fan and a nozzle configured to output an exhaust from the centrifugal fan, wherein the thrust vectoring system is configured to controllably orient at least one of, the centrifugal fan or the nozzle, to vector a thrust generated by the exhaust.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 29/00 - Aircraft capable of landing or taking-off vertically, e.g. vertical take-off and landing [VTOL] aircraft
• B64C 11/00 - Propellers, e.g. of ducted typeFeatures common to propellers and rotors for rotorcraft
• B64C 39/08 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for having multiple wings
• B64C 27/28 - Compound rotorcraft, i.e. aircraft using in flight the features of both aeroplane and rotorcraft with forward-propulsion propellers pivotable to act as lifting rotors

Abstract

A submergible aerial vehicle with one or more rotors, a body operatively connected to the one or more rotors, and a platform operatively connected to the body. The vehicle is configured to operate with one or more additional vehicles such that the platform of each vehicle connects together and forms a segment of an enlarged floating platform. The enlarged platform is configured to support an object above the water. The body includes a cavity that is able to be at least partially filled with fluid. The cavity causes the submergible aerial vehicle to be at least partially submerged in a body of water.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 35/00 - Flying-boatsSeaplanes
• B63G 8/22 - Adjustment of buoyancy by water ballastingEmptying equipment for ballast tanks
• B60F 5/02 - Other vehicles capable of travelling in or on different media convertible into aircraft
• B64C 37/00 - Convertible aircraft
• B63G 8/00 - Underwater vessels, e.g. submarines

Abstract

A system of connectable aerial vehicles. The system includes a plurality of aerial vehicles that each include a platform, one or more rotors operatively connected to the platform, and a power source that supplies power to the one or more rotors. The plurality of aerial vehicles are configured to operate in air, and operate in water while connected to form a floating platform. The floating platform is configured to support an object with at least a portion of each of the plurality of aerial vehicles configured to form a segment of the floating platform.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 37/02 - Flying units formed by separate aircraft
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• B64U 10/13 - Flying platforms
• B64U 30/20 - RotorsRotor supports
• B64U 50/19 - Propulsion using electrically powered motors
• B63G 8/22 - Adjustment of buoyancy by water ballastingEmptying equipment for ballast tanks

Abstract

Aircraft having hybrid propulsion are disclosed. A disclosed example propulsion system for an aircraft. The propulsion system includes an engine, an electric motor, a first propeller mounted to an aerodynamic body of the aircraft, the first propeller driven by the engine, a second propeller mounted to the aerodynamic body and positioned outboard relative to the first propeller, the second propeller driven by the electric motor, and a selector to control whether the propulsion system is operated in a hybrid mode in which the first and second propellers are driven.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 29/00 - Aircraft capable of landing or taking-off vertically, e.g. vertical take-off and landing [VTOL] aircraft
• B60L 53/24 - Using the vehicle's propulsion converter for charging
• B60K 6/48 - Parallel type
• B64C 11/28 - Collapsible or foldable blades
• B64D 27/02 - Aircraft characterised by the type or position of power plants

Abstract

According to one aspect of the present disclosure, an apparatus for shifting a center of gravity of an aircraft is disclosed. The apparatus includes a propulsion component, a moveable ballast component, and an assembly configured to translate the moveable ballast component. The propulsion component is configured to assist in transitioning the aircraft between a first mobility phase and a second mobility phase. The assembly is configured to translate the moveable ballast component between an aft position and a forward position of the aircraft based on the aircraft transitioning between the first mobility phase and the second mobility phase to shift the center of gravity of the aircraft along a longitudinal axis of the aircraft.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 17/02 - Aircraft stabilisation not otherwise provided for by gravity or inertia-actuated apparatus
• B64C 29/00 - Aircraft capable of landing or taking-off vertically, e.g. vertical take-off and landing [VTOL] aircraft

Abstract

An adaptive sense and avoid system for use with an aerial vehicle in an environment, the adaptive sense and avoid system comprising a processor, a plurality of sensors, an obstacle detection circuit, and an avoidance trajectory circuit. The processor may be operatively coupled with a flight controller and a memory device, wherein the memory device comprises one or more databases. The plurality of sensors generates sensor data reflecting a position of an obstacle in the environment. The obstacle detection circuit, which is operatively coupled to the processor and the plurality of sensors, may be configured to identify obstacles based at least in part on the sensor data and to generate obstacle information that reflects a best estimate of a position of the obstacle in the environment. The obstacle detection circuit is configured to weigh the sensor data as a function of the aerial vehicle's state and its environment. The avoidance trajectory circuit, which is operatively coupled to the obstacle detection circuit and the processor, may be configured to calculate trajectory data as a function of the obstacle information and information from the one or more databases. The obstacle detection circuit is configured to communicate the trajectory data to the flight controller.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08G 5/04 - Anti-collision systems
• G01S 13/933 - Radar or analogous systems, specially adapted for specific applications for anti-collision purposes of aircraft or spacecraft
• G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude or attitude of land, water, air or space vehicles, e.g. using automatic pilots
• G06V 20/10 - Terrestrial scenes
• G08G 5/00 - Traffic control systems for aircraft

Abstract

A method, apparatus, system for tracking an object, the method. A region of interest in an image pair is determined based on a bounding box determined for the object in the image pair. A mask based on the region of interest is applied to the image pair. The mask masks out portions of the image pair outside of the region of interest to form masked images. Intensity averaging is performed on the masked images to detect a set of pixels having a greatest intensity in the masked images. The set of pixels in the masked images is a set of common pixels in the masked images in which the set of common pixels is assumed to have a same location in both of the masked images. A three-dimensional position of the object is determined using the set of common pixels.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06T 7/20 - Analysis of motion
• G06T 7/00 - Image analysis
• G06T 7/70 - Determining position or orientation of objects or cameras

Abstract

There is provided an energy absorbing landing gear system for attachment to a vertical landing apparatus. The energy absorbing landing gear system includes a linear damper assembly, and a load limiter assembly coupled to the linear damper assembly, the load limiter assembly having at least one deformable element to enhance an energy absorption capability. When the energy absorbing landing gear system is attached to the vertical landing apparatus, during a landing phase, the linear damper assembly contacts a landing surface, and a piston assembly of the linear damper assembly moves a first compression distance toward the load limiter assembly, and when the linear damper assembly reaches a maximum compression, the linear damper assembly moves a second compression distance into the load limiter assembly, and the at least one deformable element deforms.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 25/60 - Oleo legs

Abstract

An aircraft with an integrated boundary layer ingesting propulsion having a mechanically-distributed propulsion system. The mechanically-distributed propulsion system may include an engine to generate a mechanical drive power, a drive shaft, a direction-reversing transmission, and a propulsor fan. The drive shaft may be operatively coupled to the engine to receive the mechanical drive power. The direction-reversing transmission may have a first rotating shaft and a second rotating shaft, the first rotating shaft operatively coupled to the drive shaft to receive the mechanical drive power, which is configured to redirect the mechanical drive power received at the first rotating shaft from a first direction to face a second direction at the second rotating shaft. The propulsor fan may be coupled to the second rotating shaft to convert the mechanical drive power into thrust.

IPC Classes  ?

• F02K 3/062 - Plants including a gas turbine driving a compressor or a ducted fan in which part of the working fluid by-passes the turbine and combustion chamber the plant including ducted fans, i.e. fans with high volume, low-pressure outputs, for augmenting jet thrust, e.g. of double-flow type with aft fan
• B64C 1/16 - FuselagesConstructional features common to fuselages, wings, stabilising surfaces or the like specially adapted for mounting power plant
• B64C 21/01 - Boundary layer ingestion [BLI] propulsion
• B64D 27/14 - Aircraft characterised by the type or position of power plants of gas-turbine type within, or attached to, fuselages
• B64D 33/04 - Arrangement in aircraft of power plant parts or auxiliaries not otherwise provided for of exhaust outlets or jet pipes
• B64D 35/00 - Transmitting power from power plants to propellers or rotorsArrangements of transmissions
• F16H 1/22 - Toothed gearings for conveying rotary motion without gears having orbital motion involving more than two intermeshing members with a plurality of driving or driven shaftsToothed gearings for conveying rotary motion without gears having orbital motion involving more than two intermeshing members with arrangements for dividing torque between two or more intermediate shafts
• F16H 37/06 - Combinations of mechanical gearings, not provided for in groups comprising essentially only toothed or friction gearings with a plurality of driving or driven shaftsCombinations of mechanical gearings, not provided for in groups comprising essentially only toothed or friction gearings with arrangements for dividing torque between two or more intermediate shafts

Abstract

Methods and apparatus to project aircraft zone indications are disclosed. A disclosed example projection system for displaying an indicator pertaining to an aircraft includes a condition analyzer to determine a condition of at least one of the aircraft or a zone surrounding the aircraft, and a projector to project the indicator on or proximate the zone based on the determined condition.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64D 47/06 - Arrangements or adaptations of signal or lighting devices for indicating aircraft presence
• B64F 1/00 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations

Abstract

Fixed-wing short-takeoff-and-landing aircraft and related methods. The aircraft comprise an airframe comprising a rear wing assembly and a forward wing assembly positioned forward of the rear wing assembly, a rear plurality of blowing rotor assemblies operatively coupled to the rear wing assembly that are configured to blow air across the rear wing assembly to induce lift in the rear wing assembly, and a forward plurality of blowing rotor assemblies that are operatively coupled to the forward wing assembly and configured to blow air across the forward wing assembly to induce lift in the forward wing assembly. The methods comprise inducing lift in a forward wing assembly by blowing air across the forward wing assembly with a forward plurality of blowing rotor assemblies and inducing lift in a rear wing assembly by blowing air across a rear wing assembly with a rear plurality of blowing rotor assemblies.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 29/00 - Aircraft capable of landing or taking-off vertically, e.g. vertical take-off and landing [VTOL] aircraft
• B64C 1/14 - WindowsDoorsHatch covers or access panelsSurrounding frame structuresCanopiesWindscreens
• B64C 39/08 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for having multiple wings
• B64C 9/00 - Adjustable control surfaces or members, e.g. rudders
• B64C 11/28 - Collapsible or foldable blades
• B64C 23/02 - Influencing air flow over aircraft surfaces, not otherwise provided for by means of rotating members of cylindrical or similar form
• B64D 27/20 - Aircraft characterised by the type or position of power plants of jet type within, or attached to, fuselages
• B64D 27/24 - Aircraft characterised by the type or position of power plants using steam or spring force

Abstract

Propeller assemblies, aircraft including the same, and associated methods. A propeller assembly includes a first propeller and a second propeller operatively coupled to a coupling shaft and configured to pivot with respect to one another about a propeller rotation axis. The propeller assembly additionally includes a coupling assembly operatively coupled to the first propeller and the second propeller and configured to transition between a plurality of pivotal configurations defined between and including a stowed configuration and a deployed configuration. The coupling assembly transitions from the stowed configuration toward the deployed configuration when a coupling assembly rotational velocity rises above a threshold stowed rotational velocity. In examples, an aircraft includes one or more propeller assemblies operatively coupled to a fuselage. In some examples, a method of operating a propeller assembly includes automatically transitioning a coupling assembly of the propeller assembly between a stowed configuration and a deployed configuration.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 27/473 - Constructional features
• B64C 27/51 - Damping of blade movements
• B64C 27/37 - Rotors having articulated joints
• B64C 29/00 - Aircraft capable of landing or taking-off vertically, e.g. vertical take-off and landing [VTOL] aircraft

Abstract

Winged tilt-rotor vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft and related methods are disclosed. Aircraft comprise an airframe comprising one or more wings; one or more tilt-adjustable rotors positioned forward of the one or more wings; and one or more fixed-tilt rotors positioned behind at least one of the one or more wings. Methods comprise tilting only one or more forward rotors positioned in front of one or more wings of the aircraft, and not tilting one or more rearward rotors positioned behind at least one of the one or more wings.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 29/00 - Aircraft capable of landing or taking-off vertically, e.g. vertical take-off and landing [VTOL] aircraft
• B64C 27/28 - Compound rotorcraft, i.e. aircraft using in flight the features of both aeroplane and rotorcraft with forward-propulsion propellers pivotable to act as lifting rotors
• B64C 19/02 - Conjoint controls

Abstract

A power generation system includes an aircraft that includes a propulsor and a platform attached to a structure and configured to support the aircraft. The propulsor is configured to generate electrical power via a wind rotating the propulsor while the aircraft is supported by the platform. A method for using a propulsor of an aircraft to generate electrical power includes positioning the aircraft such that the aircraft is supported by a structure and generating the electrical power via a wind rotating the propulsor while the aircraft is supported by the structure.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60L 8/00 - Electric propulsion with power supply from forces of nature, e.g. sun or wind
• B64D 27/24 - Aircraft characterised by the type or position of power plants using steam or spring force
• B64F 1/22 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for handling aircraft
• B64D 33/08 - Arrangement in aircraft of power plant parts or auxiliaries not otherwise provided for of power plant cooling systems
• B64C 29/00 - Aircraft capable of landing or taking-off vertically, e.g. vertical take-off and landing [VTOL] aircraft
• B60L 50/60 - Electric propulsion with power supplied within the vehicle using propulsion power supplied by batteries or fuel cells using power supplied by batteries
• B60L 53/36 - Means for automatic or assisted adjustment of the relative position of charging devices and vehicles by positioning the vehicle
• F03D 9/25 - Wind motors characterised by the driven apparatus the apparatus being an electrical generator
• H02J 7/34 - Parallel operation in networks using both storage and other DC sources, e.g. providing buffering
• H02J 3/38 - Arrangements for parallelly feeding a single network by two or more generators, converters or transformers
• B60L 58/12 - Methods or circuit arrangements for monitoring or controlling batteries or fuel cells, specially adapted for electric vehicles for monitoring or controlling batteries responding to state of charge [SoC]

Abstract

Methods and apparatus are provided for allocating tasks to be performed by one or more autonomous vehicles to achieve a mission objective. Generally, a task allocation system identifies a final task associated with a given mission objective, identifies predecessor tasks necessary to complete the final task, generates one or more candidate tasks sequences to accomplish the mission objective, generates a task allocation tree based on the candidate task sequences, and searches the task allocation tree to find a task allocation plan that meets a predetermined selection criteria (e.g., lowest cost). Based on the task allocation plan, the task allocation system determines a task execution plan and generates control data for controlling one or more autonomous vehicles to complete the task execution plan.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06F 16/245 - Query processing
• G06F 9/48 - Program initiatingProgram switching, e.g. by interrupt
• G05D 1/10 - Simultaneous control of position or course in three dimensions
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude or attitude of land, water, air or space vehicles, e.g. using automatic pilots

Abstract

Example double-blown wing vertical takeoff and landing aircraft are disclosed. An example apparatus includes a wing having a leading edge and a trailing edge, a mounting rib having a first end and a second end, the mounting rib coupled to the wing, the first end forward of the leading edge, the second end aft of the trailing edge, the mounting rib including: a first rotor having a first propeller, the first rotor coupled to the first end of the mounting rib below the leading edge, the first propeller having a first axis of rotation, and a second rotor having a second propeller, the second rotor coupled to the second end of the mounting rib above the trailing edge, the second propeller having a second axis of rotation substantially perpendicular to the first axis of rotation.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 29/00 - Aircraft capable of landing or taking-off vertically, e.g. vertical take-off and landing [VTOL] aircraft
• B64C 9/16 - Adjustable control surfaces or members, e.g. rudders forming slots at the rear of the wing
• B64C 5/02 - Tailplanes

Abstract

A method for controlling an aerial vehicle including a compliant arm mechanism is disclosed. A propulsion system of the aerial vehicle is controlled to fly the aerial vehicle to an area proximate to a surface. One or more of the propulsion system and the compliant arm mechanism are controlled such that the compliant arm mechanism contacts the surface. The compliant arm mechanism is configured to extend laterally beyond a perimeter of the propulsion system. One or more sensor signals indicating contact of the compliant arm mechanism against the surface are received via a sensor. A force at which the aerial vehicle presses against the surface is determined based on the one or more sensor signals.

IPC Classes  ?

• B25J 9/16 - Programme controls
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• B25J 13/08 - Controls for manipulators by means of sensing devices, e.g. viewing or touching devices
• B25J 15/00 - Gripping heads
• B25J 15/06 - Gripping heads with vacuum or magnetic holding means
• B25J 15/10 - Gripping heads having finger members with three or more finger members

Abstract

In one example, a method of operating a plurality of aerial vehicles in an environment includes receiving, at a first command module of a first aerial vehicle navigating along a first flight path, sensor data from one or more sensors on board the first aerial vehicle. The sensor data reflects one or more characteristics of the environment. The method further includes determining, via the first command module, a change from a predetermined formation to a different formation for a second aerial vehicle based at least in part on the sensor data, where the predetermined formation and the different formation are relative to the first aerial vehicle. The method also including generating, via the first command module, control signals reflecting the change from the predetermined formation to the different formation and sending the control signals from the first aerial vehicle to the second aerial vehicle.

IPC Classes  ?

• G05D 1/10 - Simultaneous control of position or course in three dimensions
• G08G 5/00 - Traffic control systems for aircraft

Abstract

Rotor assemblies for aircraft are described that include a plurality of blades that are disposed vertically on a common axis along different horizontal planes. When the rotor assemblies are free-wheeling, the blades form a vertically stacked configuration, and when the rotor assembly is driven in rotation to generate lift, the blades bloom out from the vertically stacked configuration. At least one of the blades in the rotor assembly has a blade geometry that is different with respect to other blades such that when the blades are vertically stacked and free-wheeling, the collective shape of the blades is aerodynamic in shape, based on the different blade geometry, that reduces aerodynamic drag on the rotor assembly.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 27/30 - Compound rotorcraft, i.e. aircraft using in flight the features of both aeroplane and rotorcraft with provision for reducing drag of inoperative rotor
• B64C 27/54 - Mechanisms for controlling blade adjustment or movement relative to rotor head, e.g. lag-lead movement
• B64C 27/467 - Aerodynamic features
• B64C 27/10 - Helicopters with two or more rotors arranged coaxially