LAUNCH AND CAPTURE SYSTEMS FOR VERTICAL TAKE-OFF AND LANDING (VTOL) VEHICLES
First Claim
1. A launch and capture system for capturing a vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) vehicle having a thruster and a duct configured to direct airflow generated by the thruster, the launch and capture system comprising:
- a capture plate configured to alter the airflow and generate a force attracting the duct to the capture plate; and
an extension coupled to the capture plate and configured to at least facilitate holding the VTOL vehicle against the capture plate.
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Accused Products
Abstract
A launch and capture system for capturing a vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) vehicle having a thruster and a duct configured to direct airflow generated by the thruster includes a capture plate and an extension. The capture plate is configured to alter the airflow and generate a force attracting the duct to the capture plate. The extension is coupled to the capture plate, and is configured to at least facilitate holding the VTOL vehicle against the capture plate.
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Citations
20 Claims
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1. A launch and capture system for capturing a vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) vehicle having a thruster and a duct configured to direct airflow generated by the thruster, the launch and capture system comprising:
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a capture plate configured to alter the airflow and generate a force attracting the duct to the capture plate; and an extension coupled to the capture plate and configured to at least facilitate holding the VTOL vehicle against the capture plate. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7)
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8. A launch and capture system for capturing a vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) vehicle having a thruster and a duct configured to direct airflow generated by the thruster, the launch and capture system comprising:
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a capture plate configured to alter the airflow and generate a force attracting the duct to the capture plate, the capture plate comprises a plurality of ports movable between an open position and a closed position; and a mast coupled to the capture plate. - View Dependent Claims (9, 10, 11, 12, 13)
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14. A system comprising:
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a vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) vehicle comprising; a thruster; and a duct configured to direct airflow generated by the thruster; and a capture plate configured to be coupled to the VTOL vehicle and to alter the airflow and generate a force attracting the duct to the capture plate. - View Dependent Claims (15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20)
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Specification