Methods and apparatuses for launching airborne devices along flexible elongated members
Number of patents in Portfolio can not be more than 2000
United States of America Patent
Stats
-
Dec 5, 2006
Issued Date -
N/A
app pub date -
Mar 31, 2004
filing date -
Apr 1, 2003
priority date (Note) -
In Force
status (Latency Note)
Importance
Abstract
Methods and apparatuses for cable launching airborne devices (e.g., unmanned aircraft) are disclosed. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes an elongated structure, e.g., a tower, boom or derrick. At least one flexible elongated member (e.g., a cable or rope) can be attached toward one end to the structure and toward another end to the ground or another structure to form an elongated launch path. A cradle, which can carry the airborne device, can also be movably attached to the flexible elongated member and can be accelerated along the launch path. As the cradle decelerates, the aircraft can be released into flight.
First Claim
Other Claims data not available
