ROBERT SCOTT COATNEY
Pilots at Lincoln St, White Salmon, WA
License number
Washington A4187477
Category
Airmen
Type
Authorized Aircraft Instructor
Address
Address
774 NW Lincoln St, White Salmon, WA 98672
Professional information
Method And Apparatus For Automated Launch, Retrieval, And Servicing Of A Hovering Aircraft
US Patent:
2013016, Jun 27, 2013
Filed:
Jun 19, 2012
Appl. No.:
13/527177
Inventors:
Brian T. McGeer - Underwood WA, US
Robert S. Coatney - White Salmon WA, US
Robert S. Coatney - White Salmon WA, US
Assignee:
AEROVEL CORPORATION - White Salmon WA
International Classification:
B64F 1/02
US Classification:
244110 F
Abstract:
An aircraft capable of thrust-borne flight can be automatically retrieved, serviced, and launched using equipment suitable for a small vessel. For retrieval, the aircraft hovers over a base apparatus having one or more rails which bound a space into which the aircraft can safely descend. When the aircraft's measured position and velocity are appropriate, the aircraft descends promptly such that a spanwise component on the aircraft engages the rails. The teeth restrain the aircraft in position and orientation, while the rails bring the aircraft to rest. Articulation of the rails is used to park the aircraft in a servicing station. Connections for refueling, recharging, and/or functional checks are made in preparation for launch. Launch is effected by removing connections and restraints and articulating the rails to put the aircraft in an appropriate position and orientation. The aircraft uses its own thrust to climb out of the apparatus into free flight.