Abstract

An aircraft launch apparatus including a bottom attachment assembly configured to receive a fixed wing aircraft, the bottom attachment assembly including a saddle movable between an open position and a locked position, the saddle including one or more front engagers and one or more rear engagers configured to engage the fixed-wing aircraft, the one or more front engagers are each configured to engage a top and a bottom of a respective wing of the fixed-wing aircraft; a plurality of landing legs connected to the bottom attachment assembly; and a top attachment assembly connected to the bottom attachment assembly and configured to receive a flexible member.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64D 5/00 - Aircraft transported by aircraft, e.g. for release or reberthing during flight
• B64F 1/02 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for arresting aircraft, e.g. nets or cables
• B64F 1/04 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for launching aircraft
• B64F 1/222 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for handling aircraft for storing aircraft, e.g. in hangars
• B64U 10/25 - Fixed-wing aircraft
• B64U 50/13 - Propulsion using external fans or propellers
• B64U 70/20 - Launching, take-off or landing arrangements for releasing or capturing UAVs in flight by another aircraft
• B64U 80/82 - Airborne vehicles
• B64U 70/30 - Launching, take-off or landing arrangements for capturing UAVs in flight by ground or sea-based arresting gear, e.g. by a cable or a net

Abstract

Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a rotorcraft-assisted system and method for launching and retrieving a fixed-wing aircraft into and from free flight. The launch and retrieval system includes a modular multicopter, a storage and launch system, an anchor system, a flexible capture member, and an aircraft-landing structure. The multicopter is attachable to the fixed-wing aircraft to facilitate launching the fixed-wing aircraft into free, wing-borne flight. The storage and launch system is usable to store the multicopter (when disassembled) and to act as a launch mount for the fixed-wing aircraft by retaining the fixed-wing aircraft in a desired launch orientation. The anchor system is usable with the multicopter, the flexible capture member, and the aircraft-landing structure to retrieve the fixed-wing aircraft from free, wing-borne flight.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64U 70/30 - Launching, take-off or landing arrangements for capturing UAVs in flight by ground or sea-based arresting gear, e.g. by a cable or a net
• B64F 1/02 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for arresting aircraft, e.g. nets or cables
• B64U 10/13 - Flying platforms
• B64U 20/80 - Arrangement of on-board electronics, e.g. avionics systems or wiring
• B64U 20/94 - Cooling of rotors or rotor motors
• B64U 30/291 - Detachable rotors or rotor supports
• B64U 70/00 - Launching, take-off or landing arrangements
• B65H 54/28 - Traversing devicesPackage-shaping arrangements
• F15B 1/02 - Installations or systems with accumulators
• F15B 1/26 - Supply reservoir or sump assemblies
• F15B 9/14 - Servomotors with follow-up action, i.e. in which the position of the actuated member conforms with that of the controlling member with rotary servomotors
• F15B 13/02 - Fluid distribution or supply devices characterised by their adaptation to the control of servomotors
• F15B 13/04 - Fluid distribution or supply devices characterised by their adaptation to the control of servomotors for use with a single servomotor
• B64U 70/70 - Launching or landing using catapults, tracks or rails

Abstract

The present disclosure describes various systems, devices, and methods configured to retrieve a fixed-wing aircraft from free flight using a flexible capture member and a monopole assembly.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64F 1/02 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for arresting aircraft, e.g. nets or cables
• B66D 1/74 - Capstans

Abstract

The present disclosure describes various systems and methods configured to: launch a fixed-wing aircraft from a moving object into free, wing-borne flight using a multicopter; retrieve the multicopter after fixed-wing aircraft launch using a retrieval winch; retrieve the fixed-wing aircraft from free, wing-borne flight back onto the moving object using the multicopter; and retrieve the multicopter after fixed-wing aircraft retrieval using the retrieval winch.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64D 5/00 - Aircraft transported by aircraft, e.g. for release or reberthing during flight
• B64C 27/08 - Helicopters with two or more rotors
• B64C 37/02 - Flying units formed by separate aircraft
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• B64F 1/12 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for anchoring aircraft

Abstract

A rotorcraft-assisted system configured to launch a fixed-wing aircraft into flight comprising a fixed-wing aircraft and an aircraft launch apparatus where the aircraft launch apparatus comprises a mechanism for attaching the rotorcraft to the fixed-wing aircraft, such as a saddle that removably engages the wing or wings of the fixed-wing aircraft.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64D 5/00 - Aircraft transported by aircraft, e.g. for release or reberthing during flight
• B64U 70/20 - Launching, take-off or landing arrangements for releasing or capturing UAVs in flight by another aircraft
• B64F 1/04 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for launching aircraft
• B64F 1/22 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for handling aircraft
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• B64F 1/02 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for arresting aircraft, e.g. nets or cables
• B64U 70/30 - Launching, take-off or landing arrangements for capturing UAVs in flight by ground or sea-based arresting gear, e.g. by a cable or a net
• B64U 80/00 - Transport or storage specially adapted for UAVs

Abstract

The present disclosure provides various embodiments of an aircraft retrieval system including winch-equipped retrieval assembly that is removably attachable to a rotorcraft to facilitate retrieval of a fixed-wing aircraft from wing-borne flight.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64F 1/02 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for arresting aircraft, e.g. nets or cables
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use

Abstract

The present disclosure presents various embodiments of a system for retrieving a fixed-wing aircraft (8030) from free flight using a flexible capture member (8004). The system includes a GPS reference sensor (8020) and a communication link to guide the fixed-wing aircraft to intercept the flexible capture member.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64F 1/02 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for arresting aircraft, e.g. nets or cables

Abstract

The present disclosure provides various embodiments of a multicopter-assisted launch and retrieval system generally including: (1) a multi-rotor modular multicopter attachable to (and detachable from) a fixed-wing aircraft to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; (2) a storage and launch system usable to store the modular multicopter and to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; and (3) an anchor system usable (along with the multicopter and a flexible capture member) to retrieve the fixed-wing aircraft from wing-borne flight.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• B64C 27/48 - Root attachment to rotor head
• B64C 27/08 - Helicopters with two or more rotors
• B64D 5/00 - Aircraft transported by aircraft, e.g. for release or reberthing during flight
• B64F 1/02 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for arresting aircraft, e.g. nets or cables
• B64D 1/12 - Releasing
• B64D 3/00 - Aircraft adaptations to facilitate towing or being towed
• B64C 27/26 - Compound rotorcraft, i.e. aircraft using in flight the features of both aeroplane and rotorcraft characterised by provision of fixed wings
• B64D 35/02 - Transmitting power from power plants to propellers or rotorsArrangements of transmissions specially adapted for specific power plants
• B64C 27/32 - Rotors
• B64C 27/00 - RotorcraftRotors peculiar thereto
• B64D 1/00 - Dropping, ejecting, releasing or receiving articles, liquids, or the like, in flight
• B64C 25/08 - Undercarriages non-fixed, e.g. jettisonable
• B65D 25/10 - Devices to locate articles in containers
• B65D 85/68 - Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for machines, engines or vehicles in assembled or dismantled form
• B64D 1/02 - Dropping, ejecting, or releasing articles

Abstract

An aircraft retrieval device is configured to retrieve a fixed-wing aircraft from free flight using a flexible capture member and a monopole assembly. The flexible capture member is couplable to a lifting device, such as a rotorcraft, crane, boom or parachute, on a first end. The lifting device serves to raise the first end of the flexible capture member to a predetermined height. A tensioning device is couplable to a second end of the flexible capture member. A monopole assembly permits the flexible capture member to extendable longitudinally through the monopole assembly. Outrigger supports extend from a base area of the monopole assembly. An upper guiding component guides the flexible capture member at an area where the flexible member exits an upper end of the monopole assembly. The present arrangement avoids the need for fixed-wing aircraft to use long runways to take-off and land.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64F 1/02 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for arresting aircraft, e.g. nets or cables

Abstract

The present disclosure describes various systems, devices, and methods configured to retrieve a fixed-wing aircraft from free flight using a flexible capture member and a monopole assembly.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64F 1/02 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for arresting aircraft, e.g. nets or cables
• B66D 1/74 - Capstans

Abstract

The present disclosure describes various systems, devices, and methods configured to retrieve a fixed-wing aircraft from free flight using a flexible capture member and a monopole assembly.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64F 1/02 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for arresting aircraft, e.g. nets or cables
• B64F 1/00 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations
• B64C 27/08 - Helicopters with two or more rotors
• B64C 27/20 - Rotorcraft characterised by having shrouded rotors, e.g. flying platforms
• B64C 39/00 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for

Abstract

Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a helicopter-mediated system and method for launching and retrieving an aircraft capable of long-distance efficient cruising flight from a small space without the use of a long runway.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64D 5/00 - Aircraft transported by aircraft, e.g. for release or reberthing during flight
• B64D 1/12 - Releasing
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• B64F 1/02 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for arresting aircraft, e.g. nets or cables
• B64D 3/00 - Aircraft adaptations to facilitate towing or being towed
• B64C 27/04 - Helicopters
• B64C 27/08 - Helicopters with two or more rotors

Abstract

Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a rotorcraft-assisted system and method for launching and retrieving a fixed-wing aircraft into and from free flight. The launch and retrieval system includes a modular multicopter, a storage and launch system, an anchor system, a flexible capture member, and an aircraft-landing structure. The multicopter is attachable to the fixed-wing aircraft to facilitate launching the fixed-wing aircraft into free, wing-borne flight. The storage and launch system is usable to store the multicopter (when disassembled) and to act as a launch mount for the fixed-wing aircraft by retaining the fixed-wing aircraft in a desired launch orientation. The anchor system is usable with the multicopter, the flexible capture member, and the aircraft-landing structure to retrieve the fixed-wing aircraft from free, wing-borne flight.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64F 1/02 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for arresting aircraft, e.g. nets or cables
• B65H 54/28 - Traversing devicesPackage-shaping arrangements
• F15B 9/14 - Servomotors with follow-up action, i.e. in which the position of the actuated member conforms with that of the controlling member with rotary servomotors
• F15B 13/02 - Fluid distribution or supply devices characterised by their adaptation to the control of servomotors
• F15B 1/02 - Installations or systems with accumulators
• F15B 13/04 - Fluid distribution or supply devices characterised by their adaptation to the control of servomotors for use with a single servomotor
• F15B 1/26 - Supply reservoir or sump assemblies
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use

Abstract

The present disclosure provides various embodiments of a multicopter-assisted launch and retrieval system generally including: (1) a multi-rotor modular multicopter attachable to (and detachable from) a fixed-wing aircraft to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; (2) a storage and launch system usable to store the modular multicopter and to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; and (3) an anchor system usable (along with the multicopter and a flexible capture member) to retrieve the fixed-wing aircraft from wing-borne flight.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 27/32 - Rotors
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• B64D 5/00 - Aircraft transported by aircraft, e.g. for release or reberthing during flight
• B64C 1/30 - Parts of fuselage relatively movable to reduce overall dimensions of aircraft
• B64C 11/48 - Units of two or more coaxial propellers
• B64F 1/02 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for arresting aircraft, e.g. nets or cables
• B64C 27/26 - Compound rotorcraft, i.e. aircraft using in flight the features of both aeroplane and rotorcraft characterised by provision of fixed wings
• B64D 3/00 - Aircraft adaptations to facilitate towing or being towed
• B64F 1/04 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for launching aircraft
• B64C 25/10 - Undercarriages non-fixed, e.g. jettisonable retractable, foldable, or the like

Abstract

The present disclosure presents various embodiments of a system for retrieving a fixed-wing aircraft from free flight using a flexible capture member. The system includes a GPS reference sensor and a communication link to guide the fixed-wing aircraft to intercept the flexible capture member.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64F 1/02 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for arresting aircraft, e.g. nets or cables
• B64U 70/30 - Launching, take-off or landing arrangements for capturing UAVs in flight by ground or sea-based arresting gear, e.g. by a cable or a net
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• B64U 10/50 - Glider-type UAVs, e.g. with parachute, parasail or kite
• B64U 30/10 - Wings
• B64U 50/19 - Propulsion using electrically powered motors

Abstract

A rotorcraft-assisted system for launching and retrieving a fixed-wing aircraft into and from free flight. The launch and retrieval system is usable with a rotorcraft to launch a fixed-wing aircraft into free, wing-borne flight and to retrieve the fixed-wing aircraft from free, wing-borne flight.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64D 5/00 - Aircraft transported by aircraft, e.g. for release or reberthing during flight
• B64F 1/02 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for arresting aircraft, e.g. nets or cables
• B64F 1/04 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for launching aircraft
• B64F 1/22 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for handling aircraft
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use

Abstract

Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a parasail-assisted system for launching a fixed-wing aircraft into free flight and for retrieving a fixed-wing aircraft from free flight.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64F 1/04 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for launching aircraft
• B64F 1/10 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for launching aircraft using self-propelled vehicles
• B64F 1/02 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for arresting aircraft, e.g. nets or cables
• B64F 1/36 - Other airport installations
• B64F 1/34 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for starting propulsion plant
• B66D 1/46 - Control devices non-automatic electric
• B66D 1/60 - Rope, cable, or chain winding mechanismsCapstans adapted for special purposes

Abstract

Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide wind harvesting systems and methods using crosswind power kites and methods for launching crosswind power kites into wing-borne flight, for generating electricity through such flights, and for landing or retrieving such crosswind power kites.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 31/06 - Kites
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• B64F 3/00 - Ground installations specially adapted for captive aircraft
• F03D 9/32 - Wind motors specially adapted for installation in particular locations on moving objects, e.g. vehicles
• H02K 7/18 - Structural association of electric generators with mechanical driving motors, e.g.with turbines
• F03D 9/25 - Wind motors characterised by the driven apparatus the apparatus being an electrical generator
• F03D 5/00 - Other wind motors
• F03D 9/11 - Combinations of wind motors with apparatus storing energy storing electrical energy
• F03D 1/00 - Wind motors with rotation axis substantially parallel to the air flow entering the rotor

Abstract

Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a parasail-assisted system for launching a fixed-wing aircraft into free flight and for retrieving a fixed-wing aircraft from free flight.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• B64F 1/02 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for arresting aircraft, e.g. nets or cables
• B64F 1/10 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for launching aircraft using self-propelled vehicles
• B64F 1/36 - Other airport installations
• B64F 1/34 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for starting propulsion plant
• B66D 1/46 - Control devices non-automatic electric
• B66D 1/60 - Rope, cable, or chain winding mechanismsCapstans adapted for special purposes
• B64F 1/04 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for launching aircraft

Abstract

A rotorcraft-assisted launch and retrieval system, and a method for controlling an airborne rotorcraft which includes controlling by a controller a first feedback loop about a longitudinal roll axis of the airborne rotorcraft and controlling by the controller a second feedback loop about a horizontal pitch axis of the airborne rotorcraft, without controlling a vertical yaw axis of the airborne rotorcraft.

IPC Classes  ?

• 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
• G05D 1/10 - Simultaneous control of position or course in three dimensions
• G05D 1/06 - Rate of change of altitude or depth
• B64F 1/02 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for arresting aircraft, e.g. nets or cables

Abstract

The present disclosure provides various embodiments of an aircraft retrieval system including winch-equipped retrieval assembly that is removably attachable to a rotorcraft to facilitate retrieval of a fixed-wing aircraft from wing-borne flight.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64D 5/00 - Aircraft transported by aircraft, e.g. for release or reberthing during flight
• B64D 1/22 - Taking-up articles from earth's surface
• B64C 27/14 - Direct drive between power plant and rotor hub
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• B64C 27/10 - Helicopters with two or more rotors arranged coaxially

Abstract

Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a rotorcraft-assisted system and method for launching and retrieving a fixed-wing aircraft into and from free flight. The launch and retrieval system includes a modular multicopter, a storage and launch system, an anchor system, a flexible capture member, and an aircraft-landing structure. The multicopter is attachable to the fixed-wing aircraft to facilitate launching the fixed-wing aircraft into free, wing-borne flight. The storage and launch system is usable to store the multicopter (when disassembled) and to act as a launch mount for the fixed-wing aircraft by retaining the fixed-wing aircraft in a desired launch orientation. The anchor system is usable with the multicopter, the flexible capture member, and the aircraft-landing structure to retrieve the fixed-wing aircraft from free, wing-borne flight.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• B64F 1/02 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for arresting aircraft, e.g. nets or cables
• B65H 54/28 - Traversing devicesPackage-shaping arrangements
• F15B 9/14 - Servomotors with follow-up action, i.e. in which the position of the actuated member conforms with that of the controlling member with rotary servomotors
• F15B 13/02 - Fluid distribution or supply devices characterised by their adaptation to the control of servomotors
• F15B 1/02 - Installations or systems with accumulators
• F15B 13/04 - Fluid distribution or supply devices characterised by their adaptation to the control of servomotors for use with a single servomotor
• F15B 1/26 - Supply reservoir or sump assemblies

Abstract

The present disclosure provides various embodiments of a multicopter-assisted launch and retrieval system generally including: (1) a multi-rotor modular multicopter attachable to (and detachable from) a fixed-wing aircraft to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; (2) a storage and launch system usable to store the modular multicopter and to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; and (3) an anchor system usable (along with the multicopter and a flexible capture member) to retrieve the fixed-wing aircraft from wing-borne flight.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 27/48 - Root attachment to rotor head
• B64C 27/08 - Helicopters with two or more rotors
• B64D 5/00 - Aircraft transported by aircraft, e.g. for release or reberthing during flight
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• B64D 1/12 - Releasing
• B64D 3/00 - Aircraft adaptations to facilitate towing or being towed
• B64F 1/02 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for arresting aircraft, e.g. nets or cables
• B64C 27/26 - Compound rotorcraft, i.e. aircraft using in flight the features of both aeroplane and rotorcraft characterised by provision of fixed wings
• B64D 35/02 - Transmitting power from power plants to propellers or rotorsArrangements of transmissions specially adapted for specific power plants
• B64C 27/32 - Rotors
• B64C 27/00 - RotorcraftRotors peculiar thereto
• B64D 1/00 - Dropping, ejecting, releasing or receiving articles, liquids, or the like, in flight
• B64C 25/08 - Undercarriages non-fixed, e.g. jettisonable
• B65D 25/10 - Devices to locate articles in containers
• B65D 85/68 - Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for machines, engines or vehicles in assembled or dismantled form
• B64D 1/02 - Dropping, ejecting, or releasing articles

Abstract

The present disclosure provides various embodiments of a multicopter-assisted launch and retrieval system generally including: (1) a multi-rotor modular multicopter attachable to (and detachable from) a fixed-wing aircraft to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; (2) a storage and launch system usable to store the modular multicopter and to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; and (3) an anchor system usable (along with the multicopter and a flexible capture member) to retrieve the fixed-wing aircraft from wing-borne flight.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 27/48 - Root attachment to rotor head
• B64C 27/08 - Helicopters with two or more rotors
• B64D 5/00 - Aircraft transported by aircraft, e.g. for release or reberthing during flight
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• B64D 1/12 - Releasing
• B64D 3/00 - Aircraft adaptations to facilitate towing or being towed
• B64F 1/02 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for arresting aircraft, e.g. nets or cables
• B64C 27/26 - Compound rotorcraft, i.e. aircraft using in flight the features of both aeroplane and rotorcraft characterised by provision of fixed wings
• B64D 35/02 - Transmitting power from power plants to propellers or rotorsArrangements of transmissions specially adapted for specific power plants
• B64C 27/32 - Rotors
• B64C 27/00 - RotorcraftRotors peculiar thereto
• B64D 1/00 - Dropping, ejecting, releasing or receiving articles, liquids, or the like, in flight
• B64C 25/08 - Undercarriages non-fixed, e.g. jettisonable
• B65D 25/10 - Devices to locate articles in containers
• B65D 85/68 - Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for machines, engines or vehicles in assembled or dismantled form
• B64D 1/02 - Dropping, ejecting, or releasing articles

Abstract

The present disclosure provides various embodiments of a multicopter-assisted launch and retrieval system generally including: (1) a multi-rotor modular multicopter attachable to (and detachable from) a fixed-wing aircraft to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; (2) a storage and launch system usable to store the modular multicopter and to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; and (3) an anchor system usable (along with the multicopter and a flexible capture member) to retrieve the fixed-wing aircraft from wing-borne flight.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 27/48 - Root attachment to rotor head
• B64C 27/08 - Helicopters with two or more rotors
• B64D 5/00 - Aircraft transported by aircraft, e.g. for release or reberthing during flight
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• B64D 1/12 - Releasing
• B64D 3/00 - Aircraft adaptations to facilitate towing or being towed
• B64F 1/02 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for arresting aircraft, e.g. nets or cables
• B64C 27/26 - Compound rotorcraft, i.e. aircraft using in flight the features of both aeroplane and rotorcraft characterised by provision of fixed wings
• B64D 35/02 - Transmitting power from power plants to propellers or rotorsArrangements of transmissions specially adapted for specific power plants
• B64C 27/32 - Rotors
• B64C 27/00 - RotorcraftRotors peculiar thereto
• B64D 1/00 - Dropping, ejecting, releasing or receiving articles, liquids, or the like, in flight
• B64C 25/08 - Undercarriages non-fixed, e.g. jettisonable
• B65D 25/10 - Devices to locate articles in containers
• B65D 85/68 - Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for machines, engines or vehicles in assembled or dismantled form
• B64D 1/02 - Dropping, ejecting, or releasing articles

Abstract

The present disclosure provides various embodiments of a multicopter-assisted launch and retrieval system generally including: (1) a multi-rotor modular multicopter attachable to (and detachable from) a fixed-wing aircraft to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; (2) a storage and launch system usable to store the modular multicopter and to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; and (3) an anchor system usable (along with the multicopter and a flexible capture member) to retrieve the fixed-wing aircraft from wing-borne flight.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 27/48 - Root attachment to rotor head
• B64C 27/08 - Helicopters with two or more rotors
• B64D 5/00 - Aircraft transported by aircraft, e.g. for release or reberthing during flight
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• B64D 1/12 - Releasing
• B64D 3/00 - Aircraft adaptations to facilitate towing or being towed
• B64F 1/02 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for arresting aircraft, e.g. nets or cables
• B64C 27/26 - Compound rotorcraft, i.e. aircraft using in flight the features of both aeroplane and rotorcraft characterised by provision of fixed wings
• B64D 35/02 - Transmitting power from power plants to propellers or rotorsArrangements of transmissions specially adapted for specific power plants
• B64C 27/32 - Rotors
• B64C 27/00 - RotorcraftRotors peculiar thereto
• B64D 1/00 - Dropping, ejecting, releasing or receiving articles, liquids, or the like, in flight
• B64C 25/08 - Undercarriages non-fixed, e.g. jettisonable
• B65D 25/10 - Devices to locate articles in containers
• B65D 85/68 - Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for machines, engines or vehicles in assembled or dismantled form
• B64D 1/02 - Dropping, ejecting, or releasing articles

Abstract

The present disclosure provides various embodiments of a multicopter-assisted launch and retrieval system generally including: (1) a multi-rotor modular multicopter attachable to (and detachable from) a fixed-wing aircraft to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; (2) a storage and launch system usable to store the modular multicopter and to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; and (3) an anchor system usable (along with the multicopter and a flexible capture member) to retrieve the fixed-wing aircraft from wing-borne flight.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 27/48 - Root attachment to rotor head
• B64C 27/08 - Helicopters with two or more rotors
• B64D 5/00 - Aircraft transported by aircraft, e.g. for release or reberthing during flight
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• B64D 1/12 - Releasing
• B64D 3/00 - Aircraft adaptations to facilitate towing or being towed
• B64F 1/02 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for arresting aircraft, e.g. nets or cables
• B64C 27/26 - Compound rotorcraft, i.e. aircraft using in flight the features of both aeroplane and rotorcraft characterised by provision of fixed wings
• B64D 35/02 - Transmitting power from power plants to propellers or rotorsArrangements of transmissions specially adapted for specific power plants
• B64C 27/32 - Rotors
• B64C 27/00 - RotorcraftRotors peculiar thereto
• B64D 1/00 - Dropping, ejecting, releasing or receiving articles, liquids, or the like, in flight
• B64C 25/08 - Undercarriages non-fixed, e.g. jettisonable
• B65D 25/10 - Devices to locate articles in containers
• B65D 85/68 - Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for machines, engines or vehicles in assembled or dismantled form
• B64D 1/02 - Dropping, ejecting, or releasing articles

Abstract

The present disclosure provides various embodiments of a multicopter-assisted launch and retrieval system generally including: (1) a multi-rotor modular multicopter attachable to (and detachable from) a fixed-wing aircraft to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; (2) a storage and launch system usable to store the modular multicopter and to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; and (3) an anchor system usable (along with the multicopter and a flexible capture member) to retrieve the fixed-wing aircraft from wing-borne flight.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 27/48 - Root attachment to rotor head
• B64C 27/08 - Helicopters with two or more rotors
• B64D 5/00 - Aircraft transported by aircraft, e.g. for release or reberthing during flight
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• B64D 1/12 - Releasing
• B64D 3/00 - Aircraft adaptations to facilitate towing or being towed
• B64F 1/02 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for arresting aircraft, e.g. nets or cables
• B64C 27/26 - Compound rotorcraft, i.e. aircraft using in flight the features of both aeroplane and rotorcraft characterised by provision of fixed wings
• B64D 35/02 - Transmitting power from power plants to propellers or rotorsArrangements of transmissions specially adapted for specific power plants
• B64C 27/32 - Rotors
• B64C 27/00 - RotorcraftRotors peculiar thereto
• B64D 1/00 - Dropping, ejecting, releasing or receiving articles, liquids, or the like, in flight
• B64C 25/08 - Undercarriages non-fixed, e.g. jettisonable
• B65D 25/10 - Devices to locate articles in containers
• B65D 85/68 - Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for machines, engines or vehicles in assembled or dismantled form
• B64D 1/02 - Dropping, ejecting, or releasing articles

Abstract

The present disclosure provides various embodiments of a multicopter-assisted launch and retrieval system generally including: (1) a multi-rotor modular multicopter attachable to (and detachable from) a fixed-wing aircraft to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; (2) a storage and launch system usable to store the modular multicopter and to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; and (3) an anchor system usable (along with the multicopter and a flexible capture member) to retrieve the fixed-wing aircraft from wing-borne flight.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 27/48 - Root attachment to rotor head
• B64C 27/08 - Helicopters with two or more rotors
• B64D 5/00 - Aircraft transported by aircraft, e.g. for release or reberthing during flight
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• B64D 1/12 - Releasing
• B64D 3/00 - Aircraft adaptations to facilitate towing or being towed
• B64F 1/02 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for arresting aircraft, e.g. nets or cables
• B64C 27/26 - Compound rotorcraft, i.e. aircraft using in flight the features of both aeroplane and rotorcraft characterised by provision of fixed wings
• B64D 35/02 - Transmitting power from power plants to propellers or rotorsArrangements of transmissions specially adapted for specific power plants
• B64C 27/32 - Rotors
• B64C 27/00 - RotorcraftRotors peculiar thereto
• B64D 1/00 - Dropping, ejecting, releasing or receiving articles, liquids, or the like, in flight
• B64C 25/08 - Undercarriages non-fixed, e.g. jettisonable
• B65D 25/10 - Devices to locate articles in containers
• B65D 85/68 - Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for machines, engines or vehicles in assembled or dismantled form
• B64D 1/02 - Dropping, ejecting, or releasing articles

Abstract

The present disclosure provides various embodiments of a multicopter-assisted launch and retrieval system generally including: (1) a multi-rotor modular multicopter attachable to (and detachable from) a fixed-wing aircraft to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; (2) a storage and launch system usable to store the modular multicopter and to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; and (3) an anchor system usable (along with the multicopter and a flexible capture member) to retrieve the fixed-wing aircraft from wing-borne flight.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• B64C 27/48 - Root attachment to rotor head
• B64C 27/08 - Helicopters with two or more rotors
• B64D 5/00 - Aircraft transported by aircraft, e.g. for release or reberthing during flight
• B64D 1/12 - Releasing
• B64D 3/00 - Aircraft adaptations to facilitate towing or being towed
• B64F 1/02 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for arresting aircraft, e.g. nets or cables
• B64C 27/26 - Compound rotorcraft, i.e. aircraft using in flight the features of both aeroplane and rotorcraft characterised by provision of fixed wings
• B64D 35/02 - Transmitting power from power plants to propellers or rotorsArrangements of transmissions specially adapted for specific power plants
• B64C 27/32 - Rotors
• B64C 27/00 - RotorcraftRotors peculiar thereto
• B64D 1/00 - Dropping, ejecting, releasing or receiving articles, liquids, or the like, in flight
• B64C 25/08 - Undercarriages non-fixed, e.g. jettisonable
• B65D 25/10 - Devices to locate articles in containers
• B65D 85/68 - Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for machines, engines or vehicles in assembled or dismantled form
• B64D 1/02 - Dropping, ejecting, or releasing articles

Abstract

The present disclosure provides various embodiments of a multicopter-assisted launch and retrieval system generally including: (1) a multi-rotor modular multicopter attachable to (and detachable from) a fixed-wing aircraft to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; (2) a storage and launch system usable to store the modular multicopter and to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; and (3) an anchor system usable (along with the multicopter and a flexible capture member) to retrieve the fixed-wing aircraft from wing-borne flight.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• B64C 27/48 - Root attachment to rotor head
• B64C 27/08 - Helicopters with two or more rotors
• B64D 5/00 - Aircraft transported by aircraft, e.g. for release or reberthing during flight
• B64D 1/12 - Releasing
• B64D 3/00 - Aircraft adaptations to facilitate towing or being towed
• B64F 1/02 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for arresting aircraft, e.g. nets or cables
• B64C 27/26 - Compound rotorcraft, i.e. aircraft using in flight the features of both aeroplane and rotorcraft characterised by provision of fixed wings
• B64D 35/02 - Transmitting power from power plants to propellers or rotorsArrangements of transmissions specially adapted for specific power plants
• B64C 27/32 - Rotors
• B64C 27/00 - RotorcraftRotors peculiar thereto
• B64D 1/00 - Dropping, ejecting, releasing or receiving articles, liquids, or the like, in flight
• B64C 25/08 - Undercarriages non-fixed, e.g. jettisonable
• B65D 25/10 - Devices to locate articles in containers
• B65D 85/68 - Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for machines, engines or vehicles in assembled or dismantled form
• B64D 1/02 - Dropping, ejecting, or releasing articles

Abstract

The present disclosure provides various embodiments of a multicopter-assisted launch and retrieval system generally including: (1) a multi-rotor modular multicopter attachable to (and detachable from) a fixed-wing aircraft to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; (2) a storage and launch system usable to store the modular multicopter and to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; and (3) an anchor system usable (along with the multicopter and a flexible capture member) to retrieve the fixed-wing aircraft from wing-borne flight.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 27/48 - Root attachment to rotor head
• B64C 27/08 - Helicopters with two or more rotors
• B64D 5/00 - Aircraft transported by aircraft, e.g. for release or reberthing during flight
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• B64D 1/12 - Releasing
• B64D 3/00 - Aircraft adaptations to facilitate towing or being towed
• B64F 1/02 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for arresting aircraft, e.g. nets or cables
• B64C 27/26 - Compound rotorcraft, i.e. aircraft using in flight the features of both aeroplane and rotorcraft characterised by provision of fixed wings
• B64D 35/02 - Transmitting power from power plants to propellers or rotorsArrangements of transmissions specially adapted for specific power plants
• B64C 27/32 - Rotors
• B64C 27/00 - RotorcraftRotors peculiar thereto
• B64D 1/00 - Dropping, ejecting, releasing or receiving articles, liquids, or the like, in flight
• B64C 25/08 - Undercarriages non-fixed, e.g. jettisonable
• B65D 25/10 - Devices to locate articles in containers
• B65D 85/68 - Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for machines, engines or vehicles in assembled or dismantled form
• B64D 1/02 - Dropping, ejecting, or releasing articles

Abstract

The present disclosure provides various embodiments of a multicopter-assisted launch and retrieval system generally including: (1) a multi-rotor modular multicopter attachable to (and detachable from) a fixed-wing aircraft to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; (2) a storage and launch system usable to store the modular multicopter and to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; and (3) an anchor system usable (along with the multicopter and a flexible capture member) to retrieve the fixed-wing aircraft from wing-borne flight.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64D 5/00 - Aircraft transported by aircraft, e.g. for release or reberthing during flight
• B64C 27/48 - Root attachment to rotor head
• B64C 27/08 - Helicopters with two or more rotors
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• B64D 1/12 - Releasing
• B64D 3/00 - Aircraft adaptations to facilitate towing or being towed
• B64F 1/02 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for arresting aircraft, e.g. nets or cables
• B64C 27/26 - Compound rotorcraft, i.e. aircraft using in flight the features of both aeroplane and rotorcraft characterised by provision of fixed wings
• B64D 35/02 - Transmitting power from power plants to propellers or rotorsArrangements of transmissions specially adapted for specific power plants
• B64C 27/32 - Rotors
• B64C 27/00 - RotorcraftRotors peculiar thereto
• B64D 1/00 - Dropping, ejecting, releasing or receiving articles, liquids, or the like, in flight
• B64C 25/08 - Undercarriages non-fixed, e.g. jettisonable
• B65D 25/10 - Devices to locate articles in containers
• B65D 85/68 - Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for machines, engines or vehicles in assembled or dismantled form
• B64D 1/02 - Dropping, ejecting, or releasing articles

Abstract

The present disclosure provides various embodiments of a multicopter-assisted launch and retrieval system generally including: (1) a multi-rotor modular multicopter attachable to (and detachable from) a fixed-wing aircraft to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; (2) a storage and launch system usable to store the modular multicopter and to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; and (3) an anchor system usable (along with the multicopter and a flexible capture member) to retrieve the fixed-wing aircraft from wing-borne flight.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 27/48 - Root attachment to rotor head
• B64C 27/08 - Helicopters with two or more rotors
• B64D 5/00 - Aircraft transported by aircraft, e.g. for release or reberthing during flight
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• B64D 1/12 - Releasing
• B64D 3/00 - Aircraft adaptations to facilitate towing or being towed
• B64F 1/02 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for arresting aircraft, e.g. nets or cables
• B64C 27/26 - Compound rotorcraft, i.e. aircraft using in flight the features of both aeroplane and rotorcraft characterised by provision of fixed wings
• B64D 35/02 - Transmitting power from power plants to propellers or rotorsArrangements of transmissions specially adapted for specific power plants
• B64C 27/32 - Rotors
• B64C 27/00 - RotorcraftRotors peculiar thereto
• B64D 1/00 - Dropping, ejecting, releasing or receiving articles, liquids, or the like, in flight
• B64C 25/08 - Undercarriages non-fixed, e.g. jettisonable
• B65D 25/10 - Devices to locate articles in containers
• B65D 85/68 - Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for machines, engines or vehicles in assembled or dismantled form
• B64D 1/02 - Dropping, ejecting, or releasing articles

Abstract

The present disclosure provides various embodiments of a multicopter-assisted launch and retrieval system generally including: (1) a multi-rotor modular multicopter attachable to (and detachable from) a fixed-wing aircraft to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; (2) a storage and launch system usable to store the modular multicopter and to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; and (3) an anchor system usable (along with the multicopter and a flexible capture member) to retrieve the fixed-wing aircraft from wing-borne flight.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 27/48 - Root attachment to rotor head
• B64C 27/08 - Helicopters with two or more rotors
• B64D 5/00 - Aircraft transported by aircraft, e.g. for release or reberthing during flight
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• B64D 1/12 - Releasing
• B64D 3/00 - Aircraft adaptations to facilitate towing or being towed
• B64F 1/02 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for arresting aircraft, e.g. nets or cables
• B64C 27/26 - Compound rotorcraft, i.e. aircraft using in flight the features of both aeroplane and rotorcraft characterised by provision of fixed wings
• B64D 35/02 - Transmitting power from power plants to propellers or rotorsArrangements of transmissions specially adapted for specific power plants
• B64C 27/32 - Rotors
• B64C 27/00 - RotorcraftRotors peculiar thereto
• B64D 1/00 - Dropping, ejecting, releasing or receiving articles, liquids, or the like, in flight
• B64C 25/08 - Undercarriages non-fixed, e.g. jettisonable
• B65D 25/10 - Devices to locate articles in containers
• B65D 85/68 - Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for machines, engines or vehicles in assembled or dismantled form
• B64D 1/02 - Dropping, ejecting, or releasing articles

Abstract

The present disclosure provides various embodiments of a rotorcraft-assisted launch and retrieval system including a rotorcraft having a fixed-wing aircraft capture assembly configured to capture a fixed-wing aircraft.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64D 5/00 - Aircraft transported by aircraft, e.g. for release or reberthing during flight
• B64C 29/00 - Aircraft capable of landing or taking-off vertically, e.g. vertical take-off and landing [VTOL] aircraft
• B64C 27/00 - RotorcraftRotors peculiar thereto
• B64C 39/00 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for
• B64D 47/00 - Equipment not otherwise provided for

Abstract

The present disclosure provides various embodiments of a multicopter-assisted launch and retrieval system generally including: (1) a multi-rotor modular multicopter attachable to (and detachable from) a fixed-wing aircraft to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; (2) a storage and launch system usable to store the modular multicopter and to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; and (3) an anchor system usable (along with the multicopter and a flexible capture member) to retrieve the fixed-wing aircraft from wing-borne flight.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 27/48 - Root attachment to rotor head
• B64C 27/08 - Helicopters with two or more rotors
• B64D 5/00 - Aircraft transported by aircraft, e.g. for release or reberthing during flight
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• B64D 1/12 - Releasing
• B64D 3/00 - Aircraft adaptations to facilitate towing or being towed
• B64F 1/02 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for arresting aircraft, e.g. nets or cables
• B64C 27/26 - Compound rotorcraft, i.e. aircraft using in flight the features of both aeroplane and rotorcraft characterised by provision of fixed wings
• B64D 35/02 - Transmitting power from power plants to propellers or rotorsArrangements of transmissions specially adapted for specific power plants
• B64C 27/32 - Rotors
• B64C 27/00 - RotorcraftRotors peculiar thereto
• B64D 1/00 - Dropping, ejecting, releasing or receiving articles, liquids, or the like, in flight
• B64C 25/08 - Undercarriages non-fixed, e.g. jettisonable
• B65D 25/10 - Devices to locate articles in containers
• B65D 85/68 - Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for machines, engines or vehicles in assembled or dismantled form
• B64D 1/02 - Dropping, ejecting, or releasing articles

Abstract

The present disclosure provides various embodiments of a rotorcraft-assisted launch and retrieval system including a rotorcraft having a fixed-wing aircraft capture assembly configured to capture a fixed-wing aircraft.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64D 5/00 - Aircraft transported by aircraft, e.g. for release or reberthing during flight
• B64C 27/08 - Helicopters with two or more rotors

Abstract

Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a helicopter-mediated system and method for launching and retrieving an aircraft capable of long-distance efficient cruising flight from a small space without the use of a long runway.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64D 3/00 - Aircraft adaptations to facilitate towing or being towed
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• B64F 1/02 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for arresting aircraft, e.g. nets or cables
• B64C 27/08 - Helicopters with two or more rotors
• B64D 5/00 - Aircraft transported by aircraft, e.g. for release or reberthing during flight
• B64D 1/12 - Releasing
• B64C 27/04 - Helicopters

Abstract

The present disclosure provides various embodiments of a multicopter-assisted launch and retrieval system generally including: (1) a multi-rotor modular multicopter attachable to (and detachable from) a fixed- wing aircraft to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; (2) a storage and launch system usable to store the modular multicopter and to facilitate launch of the fixed- wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; and (3) an anchor system usable (along with the multicopter and a flexible capture member) to retrieve the fixed-wing aircraft from wing-borne flight.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64D 5/00 - Aircraft transported by aircraft, e.g. for release or reberthing during flight
• B64C 27/08 - Helicopters with two or more rotors
• B64C 37/02 - Flying units formed by separate aircraft
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• B64F 1/10 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for launching aircraft using self-propelled vehicles

Abstract

The present disclosure provides various embodiments of a multicopter-assisted launch and retrieval system generally including: (1) a multi-rotor modular multicopter attachable to (and detachable from) a fixed-wing aircraft to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; (2) a storage and launch system usable to store the modular multicopter and to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; and (3) an anchor system usable (along with the multicopter and a flexible capture member) to retrieve the fixed-wing aircraft from wing-borne flight.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 27/32 - Rotors
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• B64F 1/02 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for arresting aircraft, e.g. nets or cables
• B64D 5/00 - Aircraft transported by aircraft, e.g. for release or reberthing during flight
• B64C 1/30 - Parts of fuselage relatively movable to reduce overall dimensions of aircraft
• B64C 11/48 - Units of two or more coaxial propellers
• B64C 27/26 - Compound rotorcraft, i.e. aircraft using in flight the features of both aeroplane and rotorcraft characterised by provision of fixed wings
• B64D 3/00 - Aircraft adaptations to facilitate towing or being towed
• B64F 1/04 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for launching aircraft
• B64C 25/10 - Undercarriages non-fixed, e.g. jettisonable retractable, foldable, or the like

Abstract

The present disclosure provides various embodiments of a multicopter-assisted launch and retrieval system generally including: (1) a multi-rotor modular multicopter attachable to (and detachable from) a fixed-wing aircraft to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; (2) a storage and launch system usable to store the modular multicopter and to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; and (3) an anchor system usable (along with the multicopter and a flexible capture member) to retrieve the fixed-wing aircraft from wing-borne flight.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 27/32 - Rotors
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• B64F 1/02 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for arresting aircraft, e.g. nets or cables
• B64D 5/00 - Aircraft transported by aircraft, e.g. for release or reberthing during flight
• B64C 1/30 - Parts of fuselage relatively movable to reduce overall dimensions of aircraft
• B64C 11/48 - Units of two or more coaxial propellers
• B64C 27/26 - Compound rotorcraft, i.e. aircraft using in flight the features of both aeroplane and rotorcraft characterised by provision of fixed wings
• B64D 3/00 - Aircraft adaptations to facilitate towing or being towed
• B64F 1/04 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for launching aircraft
• B64C 25/10 - Undercarriages non-fixed, e.g. jettisonable retractable, foldable, or the like

Abstract

The present disclosure provides various embodiments of a multicopter-assisted launch and retrieval system generally including: (1) a multi-rotor modular multicopter attachable to (and detachable from) a fixed-wing aircraft to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; (2) a storage and launch system usable to store the modular multicopter and to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; and (3) an anchor system usable (along with the multicopter and a flexible capture member) to retrieve the fixed-wing aircraft from wing-borne flight.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 27/32 - Rotors
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• B64F 1/02 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for arresting aircraft, e.g. nets or cables
• B64D 5/00 - Aircraft transported by aircraft, e.g. for release or reberthing during flight
• B64C 1/30 - Parts of fuselage relatively movable to reduce overall dimensions of aircraft
• B64C 11/48 - Units of two or more coaxial propellers
• B64C 27/26 - Compound rotorcraft, i.e. aircraft using in flight the features of both aeroplane and rotorcraft characterised by provision of fixed wings
• B64D 3/00 - Aircraft adaptations to facilitate towing or being towed
• B64F 1/04 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for launching aircraft
• B64C 25/10 - Undercarriages non-fixed, e.g. jettisonable retractable, foldable, or the like

Abstract

The present disclosure provides various embodiments of a multicopter-assisted launch and retrieval system generally including: (1) a multi-rotor modular multicopter attachable to (and detachable from) a fixed-wing aircraft to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; (2) a storage and launch system usable to store the modular multicopter and to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; and (3) an anchor system usable (along with the multicopter and a flexible capture member) to retrieve the fixed-wing aircraft from wing-borne flight.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 27/32 - Rotors
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• B64F 1/02 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for arresting aircraft, e.g. nets or cables
• B64D 5/00 - Aircraft transported by aircraft, e.g. for release or reberthing during flight
• B64C 1/30 - Parts of fuselage relatively movable to reduce overall dimensions of aircraft
• B64C 11/48 - Units of two or more coaxial propellers
• B64C 27/26 - Compound rotorcraft, i.e. aircraft using in flight the features of both aeroplane and rotorcraft characterised by provision of fixed wings
• B64D 3/00 - Aircraft adaptations to facilitate towing or being towed
• B64F 1/04 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for launching aircraft
• B64C 25/10 - Undercarriages non-fixed, e.g. jettisonable retractable, foldable, or the like

Abstract

The present disclosure provides various embodiments of a multicopter-assisted launch and retrieval system generally including: (1) a multi-rotor modular multicopter attachable to (and detachable from) a fixed-wing aircraft to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; (2) a storage and launch system usable to store the modular multicopter and to facilitate launch of the fixed-wing aircraft into wing-borne flight; and (3) an anchor system usable (along with the multicopter and a flexible capture member) to retrieve the fixed-wing aircraft from wing-borne flight.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 27/32 - Rotors
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• B64F 1/02 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for arresting aircraft, e.g. nets or cables
• B64D 5/00 - Aircraft transported by aircraft, e.g. for release or reberthing during flight
• B64C 27/26 - Compound rotorcraft, i.e. aircraft using in flight the features of both aeroplane and rotorcraft characterised by provision of fixed wings
• B64D 3/00 - Aircraft adaptations to facilitate towing or being towed
• B64F 1/04 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for launching aircraft
• B64C 25/10 - Undercarriages non-fixed, e.g. jettisonable retractable, foldable, or the like
• B64C 1/30 - Parts of fuselage relatively movable to reduce overall dimensions of aircraft
• B64C 11/48 - Units of two or more coaxial propellers

Abstract

Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a helicopter-mediated system and method for launching and retrieving an aircraft capable of long-distance efficient cruising flight from a small space without the use of a long runway.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• B64D 1/12 - Releasing
• B64D 3/00 - Aircraft adaptations to facilitate towing or being towed
• B64D 5/00 - Aircraft transported by aircraft, e.g. for release or reberthing during flight

Abstract

Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a helicopter-mediated system and method for launching and retrieving an aircraft capable of long-distance efficient cruising flight from a small space without the use of a long runway.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64D 5/00 - Aircraft transported by aircraft, e.g. for release or reberthing during flight
• B64D 1/12 - Releasing
• B64D 3/00 - Aircraft adaptations to facilitate towing or being towed
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• B64F 1/02 - Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for arresting aircraft, e.g. nets or cables
• B64C 27/08 - Helicopters with two or more rotors

Abstract

Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a helicopter-mediated system and method for launching and retrieving an aircraft capable of long-distance efficient cruising flight from a small space without the use of a long runway.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64D 5/00 - Aircraft transported by aircraft, e.g. for release or reberthing during flight
• B64D 1/12 - Releasing
• B64D 3/00 - Aircraft adaptations to facilitate towing or being towed
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use

Abstract

Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a clearance detection system and method using frequency identification. Generally, the clearance detection system of the present disclosure uses a fiber optic sensor to determine a distance between a target traversing through a target area and a wall of a housing or casing within which the target is rotating. In various embodiments, the clearance detection system does so by projecting a light field including multiple alternating and diverging illuminated and non-illuminated regions into the target area, collecting light reflected off of the target as the target traverses through the light field, generating an oscillatory signal based on the collected reflected light, identifying the dominant frequency of the signal, and using the dominant frequency to determine the distance.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01B 11/14 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques for measuring distance or clearance between spaced objects or spaced apertures
• F01D 11/14 - Adjusting or regulating tip-clearance, i.e. distance between rotor-blade tips and stator casing
• F01D 21/00 - Shutting-down of machines or engines, e.g. in emergencyRegulating, controlling, or safety means not otherwise provided for

Abstract

Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a hollow-braided rope having a new and improved rope termination formed therein and a new and improved rope termination system for forming the rope termination. Generally, the rope termination of the present disclosure is formed using a double-braided portion of hollow-braided rope in conjunction with a set of mechanical components of the rope termination forming system. The use of both the double-braided portion of the hollow-braided rope and the set of mechanical components causes any applied tensile forces to be distributed between the double-braided portion and the mechanical components. The distribution of part of any applied tensile forces away from the mechanical components and to the double-braided portion of the hollow-braided rope itself enables the mechanical components to be relatively small and lightweight and reduces the size and weight of the rope termination without compromising strength.

IPC Classes  ?

• D07B 1/12 - Ropes or cables with a hollow core
• D07B 9/00 - Binding or sealing ends, e.g. to prevent unravelling
• D07B 1/18 - Grommets
• D07B 1/14 - Ropes or cables with incorporated auxiliary elements, e.g. for making, extending throughout the length of the rope or cable

Abstract

Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a hollow-braided rope having a new and improved rope termination formed therein and a new and improved rope termination system for forming the rope termination. Generally, the rope termination of the present disclosure is formed using a double-braided portion of hollow-braided rope in conjunction with a set of mechanical components of the rope termination forming system. The use of both the double-braided portion of the hollow-braided rope and the set of mechanical components causes any applied tensile forces to be distributed between the double-braided portion and the mechanical components. The distribution of part of any applied tensile forces away from the mechanical components and to the double-braided portion of the hollow-braided rope itself enables the mechanical components to be relatively small and lightweight and reduces the size and weight of the rope termination without compromising strength.

IPC Classes  ?

• F16G 11/05 - Means for fastening cables or ropes to one another or to other objectsCaps or sleeves for fixing on cables or ropes with wedging action, e.g. friction clamps of grommet-thimble type by using conical plugs insertable between the strands
• D07B 7/16 - Auxiliary apparatus

Abstract

Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a helicopter-mediated system and method for launching and retrieving an aircraft capable of long-distance efficient cruising flight from a small space without the use of a long runway.

IPC Classes  ?

• B64D 1/12 - Releasing
• B64D 5/00 - Aircraft transported by aircraft, e.g. for release or reberthing during flight
• B64C 39/02 - Aircraft not otherwise provided for characterised by special use
• B64D 3/00 - Aircraft adaptations to facilitate towing or being towed