Modular airship system and method
First Claim
1. A modular airship, the airship comprising:
- a first envelope operative to contain a volume of lighter-than-air gas; and
a first coupling device capable of attaching the modular airship with another modular airship while in flight.
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Accused Products
Abstract
A modular airship system capable of assembling and disassembling two or more modular airships while in flight. The assembled modular airships providing improved lift and loft characteristics, while the disassembled modular airships provide for improved ground handling, storage, and transport. The modular airship comprises a coupling device to couple two or more modular airships together while in flight. The coupling device may include an electromagnetic attachment, a shaft and socket, Velcro, a latch, a draw cord, or a combination thereof. The modular airship may also have a propulsion system and the capability to carry a payload. The modular airship further comprises an electrical communication system which allows the two or more modular airships, when coupled together, to permit navigation, monitoring, and/or power systems to be shared and/or synchronized. It can be appreciated that the modular airships may also be coupled together on the ground prior to flight and may be replenished while in flight by another modular airship or aircraft. In a preferred embodiment, the modular airship may have the shape of an airfoil.
95 Citations
20 Claims
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1. A modular airship, the airship comprising:
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a first envelope operative to contain a volume of lighter-than-air gas; and a first coupling device capable of attaching the modular airship with another modular airship while in flight. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14)
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15. A method of assembling a modular airship capable of independent deployment and attachment during operation, the method comprising:
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providing at least two airships each having a coupling device for attaching to another airship; deploying the at least two airships independently into the atmosphere; and connecting the at least two airships together with the coupling device. - View Dependent Claims (16, 17, 18, 19)
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20. A method of assembling a modular airship capable of detachment during operation, the method comprising:
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providing at least two airships coupled together with a coupling device; terminating electrical connections between the at least two airships; and terminating the attachment connections between the at least two airships such that the at least two airships are no longer in a physical relationship.
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Specification