AU2013254456A1 - Neutral buoyancy craft - Google Patents

Neutral buoyancy craft Download PDF

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Publication number
AU2013254456A1
AU2013254456A1 AU2013254456A AU2013254456A AU2013254456A1 AU 2013254456 A1 AU2013254456 A1 AU 2013254456A1 AU 2013254456 A AU2013254456 A AU 2013254456A AU 2013254456 A AU2013254456 A AU 2013254456A AU 2013254456 A1 AU2013254456 A1 AU 2013254456A1
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AU
Australia
Prior art keywords
craft
thrust
rotation
fins
longitudinal axis
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Abandoned
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AU2013254456A
Inventor
Stylianos Laskaris
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LASKARRI Ltd
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LASKARRI Ltd
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Publication of AU2013254456A1 publication Critical patent/AU2013254456A1/en
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Classifications

    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B63SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
    • B63BSHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING 
    • B63B39/00Equipment to decrease pitch, roll, or like unwanted vessel movements; Apparatus for indicating vessel attitude
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B63SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
    • B63GOFFENSIVE OR DEFENSIVE ARRANGEMENTS ON VESSELS; MINE-LAYING; MINE-SWEEPING; SUBMARINES; AIRCRAFT CARRIERS
    • B63G8/00Underwater vessels, e.g. submarines; Equipment specially adapted therefor
    • B63G8/08Propulsion
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B63SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
    • B63GOFFENSIVE OR DEFENSIVE ARRANGEMENTS ON VESSELS; MINE-LAYING; MINE-SWEEPING; SUBMARINES; AIRCRAFT CARRIERS
    • B63G8/00Underwater vessels, e.g. submarines; Equipment specially adapted therefor
    • B63G8/08Propulsion
    • B63G8/12Propulsion using internal-combustion engines
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B64AIRCRAFT; AVIATION; COSMONAUTICS
    • B64BLIGHTER-THAN AIR AIRCRAFT
    • B64B1/00Lighter-than-air aircraft
    • B64B1/06Rigid airships; Semi-rigid airships
    • B64B1/24Arrangement of propulsion plant
    • B64B1/30Arrangement of propellers
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B64AIRCRAFT; AVIATION; COSMONAUTICS
    • B64DEQUIPMENT FOR FITTING IN OR TO AIRCRAFT; FLIGHT SUITS; PARACHUTES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF POWER PLANTS OR PROPULSION TRANSMISSIONS IN AIRCRAFT
    • B64D27/00Arrangement or mounting of power plants in aircraft; Aircraft characterised by the type or position of power plants
    • B64D27/02Aircraft characterised by the type or position of power plants
    • B64D27/30Aircraft characterised by electric power plants
    • B64D27/35Arrangements for on-board electric energy production, distribution, recovery or storage
    • B64D27/353Arrangements for on-board electric energy production, distribution, recovery or storage using solar cells
    • GPHYSICS
    • G05CONTROLLING; REGULATING
    • G05DSYSTEMS FOR CONTROLLING OR REGULATING NON-ELECTRIC VARIABLES
    • G05D1/00Control of position, course, altitude or attitude of land, water, air or space vehicles, e.g. using automatic pilots
    • G05D1/08Control of attitude, i.e. control of roll, pitch, or yaw
    • YGENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02TCLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO TRANSPORTATION
    • Y02T50/00Aeronautics or air transport
    • Y02T50/50On board measures aiming to increase energy efficiency

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Aviation & Aerospace Engineering (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Radar, Positioning & Navigation (AREA)
  • Ocean & Marine Engineering (AREA)
  • Remote Sensing (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Automation & Control Theory (AREA)
  • Toys (AREA)
  • Transmission Devices (AREA)
  • Rehabilitation Tools (AREA)

Abstract

Neutral buoyancy craft of architecture according to which all the necessary for its guidance, navigation and control forces act exclusively on part A (2.1) which locates between the craft's extreme front and the Drag's application center D as the surrounding flow's axis is parallel to the craft's longitudinal axis and its direction from its front portion towards its back. The part A (2.1) which may be an independent part connected to the rest of the craft by means that ensure the effective transfer of powers from the one part to the other allowing also the relative rotation between the two parts by 360 degrees around the craft's longitudinal axis.

Description

WO 2013/160707 PCT/GR2013/000026 1 NEUTRAL BUOYANCY CRAFT The present application refers to neutral buoyancy crafts meaning crafts to which lift is provided from a fluid of lower density than the environment's, stored in suitable premises within their halls, 5 of which the guidance, navigation and control, further in the document and in terms of abbreviation will be referred as GN&C, into the environmental fluid is accomplished with the use of thrust and movable surfaces. Airships and submarines are characterized as crafts of neutral buoyancy. The present application's proposed architecture is applicable in both the above mentioned craft types and concerns architecture regarding the application center of thrust and control forces and 10 systems through which the above mentioned forces are transferred to the craft. In the present application are also presented the method through which a craft's, of the above mentioned architecture, GN&C are achieved as well as a method of the crafts hull's orientation by 360 degrees over the pitch and roll axes exclusively applicable on a craft of the present application's proposed architecture. 15 The world's first ever study on advancing / directing an air craft, whose buoyancy was provided by a gas lighter than air, was presented on December third of the year 1783 by Jean Baptiste Marie Meusnier to the French Academy. The first airship powered flight was accomplished by Henri Giffard in the year 1852. Up until today there have also been proposed or built airships of various classes relating to 20 thrust's application center position as well as the navigation control of which the main ones are: 1. Airships with the thrust application center locating closer towards the craft's front section than the drags application center. The application centers of mass, thrust and lift do not coincide with the axis defined by the drag. The crafts GN&C are achieved by moving spoilers mounted on stabilizing fins located at the rear of the craft. Crafts of this class will be referred below as crafts of 25 class 1. 2. Airships with the thrust application center located closer towards the craft's front section than the drags application center as well as closer towards the center of lift and the axis defined by the drag's direction than the craft's center of mass. The craft's GN&C are achieved by moving spoilers mounted on stabilizing fins located at the rear of the craft. Crafts of this class will be referred below 30 as crafts of class 2. 3. Airships on which the thrust application center locates closer towards the craft's front portion than the drag's application center. The thrust application center also coincides with the axis defined by the drag's direction. The crafts GN&C are achieved by moving spoilers mounted on stabilizing fins located at the rear of the craft. Crafts of this class will be referred below as crafts of class 3.
WO 2013/160707 PCT/GR2013/000026 2 4. Airships with the thrust application center locating closer than the drags application center towards the craft's stern. The thrust application point coincides with the craft's longitudinal axis and that is provided by one unit. The crafts GN&C are achieved by moving spoilers mounted on stabilizing fins locating at the rear of the craft. Crafts of this class will be referred below as crafts of 5 class 4. 5. Airships with the thrust application center locating closer than the drags application center towards the stern. The thrust application center coincides with the envelope's longitudinal axis and is provided by one unit. The crafts stability is achieved through stabilizing fins located at the rear of the craft and the GN&C through thrust vectoring. Crafts of this class will be referred below as crafts 10 of class 5 in which we may rank the following: Inventor GEERY DANIEL, title "Highly maneuverable powered airship", number US2005263642, and filing date 2004/11/04. 6. Airship with the thrust application center locating closer to the application centers of gravity, lift and drag towards the rear portion of the craft. The stability and GN&C is achieved through changing of the angle or the level of the thrust provided by thrust systems located at the craft's rear portion. 15 Crafts of this class will be referred below as crafts of class 6 in which we may rank the following: Inventor LEE YEE -CHUN, title "Boundary layer propulsion airship with related system & method", number W02009105160, filing date 2009/02/06. 7. Airships propelled by several thrust units, which are located on either sides of the gondola at different locations along the craft's longitudinal axis. Crafts of this class will be referred below as 20 crafts of class 7 in which we may rank the following: Inventors JOHN ENLOE BROYLES, HENRY EMMET ROBERTSON, and THEODORE HENRY WEILER, title Improvements in airships, application number GB250602, filing date 1926/04/08. 8. Airships promoted by several units, which in groups each one of which the resultants thrust force's application centers are located on different positions along the craft's longitudinal axis. The 25 craft's stability and GN&C is achieved solely by changing the relation of the size as well as the angle of the generated thrust. This makes unnecessary the use of fins for the stabilization and control with benefits under certain conditions over the craft's handling at very low or nonexistent flow around it. Crafts of this class will be referred below as crafts of class 8 in which we may rank the following: Inventor Nagy Imre, title "High speed airship", number WO2005019025, and filing date 30 2003/08/15. 9. Airships of which the thrust's application center is located closer to the application center of drag towards the crafts front portion as well as in position coincident with the drag's axis with which the center of lift is also coincident. The stability is provided by fins which are located in the rear part of the craft. The directional control normal to the level set by the craft's longitudinal axis and the 35 thrust application points is achieved through providing more thrust from one of the two units while WO 2013/160707 PCT/GR2013/000026 3 in the plane vertically intersected by the above mentioned through the direction change of the thrust provided by the units . Crafts of this class will be referred below as crafts of class 9 in which we may rank the following: Inventor Krause Tomas, title "Airship", number W02008110385 and filing date 2008/03/17. 5 10. Airships propelled by one thrust unit which is located at the extreme front in such a way that the provided thrust's axis coincides with the crafts longitudinal axis. Control and stability are carried out by fins located on the crafts rear portion. Crafts of this class will be referred below as crafts of class 10 in which we may rank the following: Inventor, PHILIPPE AUGUSTE, title "Improvements in connection with Dirigible Balloons" number GB191116635A, filing date 1911/07/19. 10 11. Airships propelled by two thrust units located at the front end and the rear end portion in such a way that the axis of each thrust 's unit direction coincides with the crafts longitudinal axis directed by a change of direction of one or both of the units or by fins adapted to the craft's back portion. Crafts of this class will be referred below as crafts of class 11. Crafts of this class will be referred below as crafts of class 11 in which we may rank the following: Inventor BRIX WOLFGANG, title 15 "Propeller driven dirigible has steerable propellers on each end to aid maneuvering", number DE10065385 (Al), date 2000/12/27. 12. Airships propelled by two groups consisting of more than two units the one of each locates in the front end and the other in the rear end in such a way that the axis of the resultant of the thrust provided coincides with the craft's longitudinal axis. The stabilization and GN&C ensured through 20 thrust vectoring. Crafts of this class will be referred below as crafts of class 12 in which we may rank the following: Inventor Voorhees Michael Todd, title "Differential Thrust Control System", filing number US 2009127385 and filing date 2008/05/06. Crafts that have been presented so far have the following attributes and limitations which under certain conditions related to the mission of the craft may be identified as disadvantages: 25 For crafts in classes 1, 2, we observe: A. The thrust axis located at a distance from the drags application point results in the application of a torque force upon the craft during the application of the above mentioned forces. The torque force is centered on the line segment defined by the points of application. The above trend torque's direction is determined by the directions of the supplied thrusts and the axis of drag. The torque 30 force's level depends on the following: " The level of the provided thrust in relation to the drags force level. e The distance between the application points of the drag and the resultant of thrust forces. " The angle of the line segment is determined in relation to the axis of the Flow field forces craft. " The distance between the craft's center of gravity and the drag's application center normal to the. 35 e The crafts total mass.
WO 2013/160707 PCT/GR2013/000026 4 The angle between the line segment, defined by the craft's center of gravity and the drag's application center and the axis defined by the drag's direction. The above torque force tends to rotate the craft around the pitch axis. This has the effect of placing limits on the size of the maximum thrust provided and therefore the maximum attainable speed as 5 the magnification of thrust is limited by the strength of the envelope against elastic deformation which lays upon: * The material used for its construction * The internal pressure in case of an airship without a frame * The envelope's shape 10 e The craft's drag coefficient B. Given that the center of gravity is located away from the center of lift, a particular angle of the craft around the roll axis is determined. C. In addition to the direction changes normal to yaw axis under the influence of the centrifugal force of its mass the craft tends to rotate around its longitudinal axis. 15 Regarding the crafts of classes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 whose angle at the axes pitch, yaw and roll is determined exclusively through fins we observe: A. Fins may be effective only when their surrounding flow is of a satisfactory speed. B. The fins as well as the necessary adapting systems to the hull of the craft charge with their mass, the total mass of the craft. 20 C. The design of fins and their attachment systems require large part of the overall design time and testing a craft before production. D. The fins and systems through which they are adapting to the craft's hull contribute greatly to the size of the craft's drag coefficient. Their contribution is magnified in lateral flow phenomena contributing to the extent deduction from the desired path and the difficulty of the craft's handling 25 on the ground. For crafts of classes 5 and 6, we observe all the above mentioned for categories 1, 2,3,4,5 plus the following: A. The maximum angle of provided thrust relative to the craft's longitudinal axis is 90 degrees; hence reversing thrust may be achieved solely by reversal of the rotation of the motor. 30 B. The thrust is acting on the craft's rear portion behind drag's application center, a fact that makes the craft unstable. These results in greater flexibility opposed to the required continuous fine-tuning and adjustments for its handling. C. Under the influence of crosswinds large amounts of energy are required in combination with fine-tuning in order for the craft to maintain the desired course overcoming the effects of the wind. 35 For this reason a company which undertook the development, production and sale of a craft of this WO 2013/160707 PCT/GR2013/000026 5 category resulted in the solution of the adjustment to the front of the craft of a tilting thrust system in order through the class of directional thrust to enable effective control over the craft's direction with the disadvantage of charging aerodynamically the craft since the adopted front portion thrust system disturbs the craft's aerodynamic boundary layer. 5 D. The thrust and the Drag forces have a common axis with direction of each one towards the other, a fact which results in the exercise of forces that tend to push the crafts front and back portion towards its center. The result of the above mentioned on a type of craft which has no hard interior framework has the tendency of the envelope deforming, under the influence of opposing forces, thus with negative effects on aerodynamics, flight stability and safety of the craft. The size 10 of the envelope's deformation lies in following three factors. a. The magnitude of a craft's drag in relation to the size of the provided thrust. b. The hardness of the crafts envelope, which for crafts with none internal metal or composite structure depends on the hardness of the material of construction in relation with the difference between the internal and the environmental fluids pressure. 15 c. The thrust's application center coincides with the axis of the craft while the center of gravity locates at a distance from it. In pursuit of these two forces on the craft is caused a torque force which is centered on the line segment defined by the above mentioned forces points of application. The above trend torque is detected at a level determined by the axis of the supplied thrust force and the craft's center of mass. The rotation around the pich axis results from the supplied thrust's 20 direction and the craft's inertia causing under the application of the above forces during acceleration the tendency of the craft to lower its nozzle. The effect's size depends on all of the following: * The magnitude of the thrust provided in relation to the size of the mass thereof. " The distance between the center of mass from the axis of thrust normal to the plane defined by 25 them. * The angle of the line segment determined by the application centers of the above mentioned forces in relation to the axis of the craft. For the crafts of classes 10, 11 the provision of thrust from one unit to the front end portion with axis coincident with the axis of the craft longitudinal results in the turbulent thrust flow to disturb 30 the crafts boundary layer enlarging the craft's total fluidic resistance. For crafts of all classes except the 1 0 th the smooth transfer of thrust, with the documentation of a flexible craft is essential in order to avoid elastic deformation of the craft's envelope in segments on which the forces of thrust are linked, one or the entire of the following are necessary: WO 2013/160707 PCT/GR2013/000026 6 A. Internal aid of airtight portions made from materials of higher strength and thus heavier over the material of the envelope of the craft in which gas is directed under pressure higher than that of the rest of the envelope. B. Strengthening the construction materials of the envelope locally at the points of the drive units 5 attachment. C. The use of any kind of frame between the outer surface of the hull and the propulsion units. The present patent application regards to architecture according to which all control forces apply exclusively in a part of the craft, which henceforth will be referred as part A, which is defined between the extreme front of the craft and the Drag's application center while the last is acting on 10 the craft from the surrounding flow as the flow axis is parallel to the crafts longitudinal axis and its direction from the craft's front portion towards its stern. According to this application the part of the craft between the part A and the craft's back end below will be further referred as part B. The propulsion is ensured by a pair of thrust units disposed on opposite sides of the craft's longitudinal axis, the forces of which are transferred to the craft via connecting rods. The rods are 15 part of a system which penetrates the segment (A) which is characterized by rigidity in order to effectively transmit all forces from systems fixed to each of the connecting rods towards the craft. The distance between the thrust units application points from the crafts longitudinal axis and their angular tilt in relation to it, are such that the thrust flow does not disturb the craft's boundary layer as the craft moves normal to a plane determined by its longitudinal axis and the direction of the 20 surrounding flow as this plane is intersected perpendicularly from the line segment determined by the thrust application points towards their corresponding rods and also when the direction of the surrounding flow, the direction of the thrust forces and the crafts longitudinal axis are parallel. The above results, on the fact that during the provision of equal size of thrust by the thrust units as the resultant of the thrust forces is of direction opposite than of the drag's, only forces of tensile 25 stress are transferred from part A towards the part B. The thrust forces are transferred to the craft through a connecting rod which penetrates the part A or via two connecting rods forming a system which penetrates the part A. In both cases, the above elements should according to the present application be characterized by rigidity of size such that to overcome the application of maximum thrust where appropriate from the thrust units at the point or points of the adjustment of A and B. 30 Each of the two thrust units is possible in accordance with this application, be adapted to connecting rod through two different modes in such a way as to render assistance through servo possible change of the direction of thrust of each unit independently of the other, around the following two axes: A. Axis which perpendicularly intersects the plane defined by the axis of the craft and the points of 35 application of the thrust forces from the thrust units to the connecting rods.
WO 2013/160707 PCT/GR2013/000026 7 B. Axis which coincides with the plane defined by the craft's longitudinal axis and the points of application of the thrust forces from the thrust units to the connecting rods. Purpose of the above is to successfully control the craft' angles around the roll, pitch and yaw axes ,by achieving an appropriate thrust angle, through the rotation of each power unit around the 5 above designated axes. On the rods that connect the thrust units to the craft, fins are suspended in such a way that through servomotors they may rotate about an axis which coincides with the longitudinal axis of their corresponding rod. The fins shall be designed to cover the rod and contribute to control the angle of roll through counter rotation and angle control in relation to the plane defined by the 10 craft's longitudinal axis and the application points of thrust forces from the thrust units towards their corresponding rods via uni-rotation towards the wished direction. In order of the achievement of lower drag coefficient the fins may turn by their corresponding servomotors, in addition to the purpose of control, to rotate around the rod so that, in accordance with data collected from sensors over their angle of attack in respect with the surrounding flow and commands from computer 15 management system of their corresponding servomotors, to occupy such positions as to present the least possible fluidic resistance. On each rod may suspend one or more fins. In the latter case one of the two fins on each side has a length and position such that its outer surface is exposed to the thrust flow while the other has a length and position such that its outer surface is exposed only to the surrounding free flow between the thrust flow and the craft's hull. 20 As all the forces by which stability and GN&C are ensured through elements of section A on the outer surface of Section B nothing that would support the craft's handling is attached. Also in Section B are not adjusted any thrust units through which would help the craft's control direction or ensuring its stability as well as to provide additional thrust to it. The A section according to the present application can be an independent part from the rest of 25 the craft ( part B) and in this case the two parts are connected in such a way as to: A. Ensure the stiffness of the connections between them in the exercise of all except rotational forces. B. The ability of the relative rotation between them by 360 degrees around an axis which coincides with the axis of symmetry of the craft if its shape is symmetrical by revolution around its .30 longitudinal axis or is parallel with the crafts longitudinal axis in any other case. The rotational angle / position of the parts between them, controlled by an actuator firmly fixed to one of the two parts of which rotational movement is transmitted through any transmission system, towards the other part. The above operation results (when the part B is of a rotationally symmetric shape, the center of 35 buoyancy and also the center of gravity coincides with its axis of symmetry and given that the WO 2013/160707 PCT/GR2013/000026 8 control is accomplished solely by forces applying on part A to the applicability of the rotation around the roll axis of the part B without implying any impact over the craft's handling data . The purpose of the above function is the achievement of the appropriate position of part B and and systems firmly attached to it in directions along the craft's axis of roll over which they may become 5 more efficient. Exclusively to achieve proper orientation of the above systems in relation with the pitch axis within the part B in an appropriately structured base a load is suspended capable of moving along the longitudinal axis driven by a servo motor thus changing the craft's center of gravity resulting on the tuning of the craft's equilibrium state along the pitch axis. The corresponding servo motor 10 receives signals from a computing unit, which is solely responsible for the tuning of the craft's equilibrium state normal to the pitch and roll axes for the purpose of also controls other systems on the craft that they are able to contribute to its purpose as the motor that controls the relative rotation between the parts A and B, the thrust units etc. with a view of more efficient operation of systems firmly attached on the part B. 15 A craft made in accordance with this application may move along a desired course according to its mission, keeping the crafts longitudinal axis for prolonged periods at an angle to its course as well as the horizon. This feature makes necessary any systems whose correct operation requires a certain angle relative to the horizon to be attached on the craft through bases that enable their proper orientation relative to the horizon or the craft's course. 20 A craft made according to the above mentioned characteristics presents against crafts of the present state of the art the following advantages: 1. By the provision from the thrust units of equally sized and thrust direction parallel with the axis of symmetry of the craft, the resultant thrust forces in the extreme forward portion of the craft to the point of application of which coincides with the axis of drag. This results in the performance of 25 solely tensile forces above section B from the thrustsince the only compression forces of the outer surface of section B derived exclusively from the surrounding flow. This feature makes possible the application of thrust of higher level in competence to crafts fabricated according to the state of the art. 2. Ability to build the hull using material of lower structural strength against those required to build 30 similar sized crafts in accordance with the present state of the art with the following benefits: A. Construction of the hull from materials of lower total weight. B. Construction of hull from materials of lower total cost. 3. Smaller course deviation due to side flow effects in relation to the desired path as a consequence of the lower side projected area in the absence of fins attached to the back portion and the ability WO 2013/160707 PCT/GR2013/000026 9 of the craft to move with the longitudinal axis at an angle in relation to the desired course such that it is displayed to the surrounding flow, the smallest possible area. 4. Efficient control of the craft in the entire range of the surrounding flow possible speeds. 5. Possibility of targeting the hull and hence firmly adapted on it systems about the axis of 5 symmetry without any change of the crafts Drag as well as its stability and GN&C. 6. Chance of success orientation of craft and thus strongly adapted to this system on the transverse axis. 7. Ability of safer navigation than of crafts of the present state of the art into higher speed flow than of the highest possible attainable from the propulsion systems. 10 8. Ability of precise approach to attachment tower minimizing the need for ground personnel. 9. The absence of stability fins and the manufacturability of the hull from material of less strength / mass, results for a craft manufactured according to the present application a significant advantage in cases where the total mass of the craft and the low drag coefficient is critical for a mission such as accenting or leveling at high altitude. 15 10. The absence of stability fins and the possibility of constructing the hull of lower strength material / mass may be an advantage for a flexible airship in accordance with applications for which the low volume of the craft during storage and transportation is important. 11 Due to the absence of stability fins, it is possible for a craft of the present application to approach a tower with precision and pitch angles greater against crafts of the present state of the 20 art. 12. Reason of the absence of stability fins and given that the fins automatically rotate the control to display the minimum possible surface area to the surrounding flow passage from the upper levels of the Troposphere and the Tropopause becomes safer for a craft constructed according to the present application, of which the official mission roof is at a greater height. 25 13. The required design time as well as the necessary testing of a craft of this application before it comes in production is reduced against crafts of the present state of the art. A brief description of the attached figures follows. Fig. 1 is a side view of a craft manufactured according to the present application as the axis defined by the thrust application points intersects perpendicularly the level of the horizon. 30 Fig. 2 is a side view of a craft manufactured according to the present application as the axis defined by the thrust application points is parallel with the level of the horizon. Fig. 3 is a front view of a craft manufactured according to the present application as the axis defined by the thrust application points intersects perpendicularly the level of the horizon. Fig. 4 is a front view of a craft manufactured according to the present application as the axis 35 defined by the thrust application points is parallel with the level of the horizon.
WO 2013/160707 PCT/GR2013/000026 10 Fig. 5 presents a craft manufactured according to the present application as thrust is provided at various angles normal to the plane defined by the thrust application points and the crafts longitudinal axis. Fig. 6 presents a craft manufactured according to the present application as thrust is provided at 5 various angles around an axle defined by the thrust units application points. Figure 7 presents a craft moving between two points. Fig. 8 presents in side view a craft that consists of two sections A, B with a solar array mounted on the outer surface of section B. Fig. 9 presents the craft of figure 8 in three different front views in each one of which the section B 10 has been rotated at different angles around the roll axis in order for the solar arrays mounted on its outer surface to be oriented towards the sun flux. Fig. 10, 11 present the craft of figure 8 as its pitch equilibrium angle is tuned in order to form a corner in relation with the horizon, in order for the solar arrays mounted on its outer surface to be oriented towards the sun flux, while the two thrust application points define a straight line normal 15 to a plane which intersects vertically the level of the horizon. Fig. 12, 13, 14 present the craft of figure 8 as its pitch equilibrium angle is tuned in order to form a corner in relation with the horizon, in order for the solar arrays mounted on its outer surface to be oriented towards the sun flux, while the two thrust application points define a straight line of parallel orientation with the level of the horizon. 20 Fig. 15 presents in side view of the one of two thrust units, its neighboring flap, and a segment of a flap located between the thrust units neighboring flap and the crafts hull as well as elements corresponding to the attachment of all the above on a rod through which the provided powers are transferred to the craft. Fig. 16 presents top view of fig. 17.Fig. 17 presents method of connecting sections A and B of the 25 craft in a manner such as to enable relative rotation between them. Fig. 18 is a perspective view of the fig. 17. Fig. 19 is top view of the thrust unit 20 in a position such as to provide the thrust, the axis of which is at an angle in relation to the craft's longitudinal axis. Fig. 20 presents ' in side view alternative architecture section of the craft whereby servomotors 30 (18), (18.1) by means of which the rotation of units thrust o about an axis which coincides with the plane defined by the axis of symmetry craft and since they thrust axes are oriented parallel to the axis of symmetry are located in position such that each acts to its respective connecting rod of each thrust unit with the hull of the craft. Fig. 21 is presents a front view of Fig, 20.A detailed description of the attached figures, with 35 references on their numbering follows.
WO 2013/160707 PCT/GR2013/000026 11 Fig. 1 presents a craft manufactured according to the present application in which thrust units (2) (2.1) are attached to the crafts hall through link rods (21), (21.1) which are presented in subsequent designs. Also presented are fins (4), (4.1), (5), (5.1) and the hull of the craft (1). The elements (2), (4), (5) are located in positions diametrical opposite in relation to the crafts longitudinal axis (3) 5 with the elements (2.1), (4.1), (5.1), respectively. For ease of understanding the plans of this application, the position shown in Figure 1 will be marked as side view. Fig. 2 is a top view of fig 1. 10 In Fig. 3 presents front view of Figure 1 wherein the craft is shown in position around its roll axis such that the propulsion units to define a straight line which intersects vertically the level of the horizon. It also presents the hull of the craft (1) fins (4), (4.1), (5), (5.1) suspended on support bars (21), (21.2) which will be obvious in next figures and propellers ( 8), (8.1). 15 Fig. 4 is a perspective view of Fig. 1 wherein the craft is shown in a position in the roll axis such that the propulsion units define a line which lies at a position parallel to the horizon, It also presents the hull of the craft (1) fins (4), (4.1), (5), (5.1) suspended on support bars (21), (21.2) which will be obvious in next figs and propellers (8), (8.1). 20 Fig. 5 presents a craft hull (1) which is rotationally symmetric to axis. Also presents the craft's thrust units in different possible positions, so that the thrust generated by those, presented with arrows, to control the direction of the craft in the plane defined by the thrust units and the craft's axis of symmetry. 25 Fig. 6 presents a side view of figure 5 presents the thrust units at various angles around the axis of the connecting rod, so that the thrust generated by those which presented with arrows, to help to control the direction of the craft in the plane perpendicular to this defined by the support bars and the axis of the craft. 30 In Fig. 7 is presented with a dashed line a desired course of the craft from point A to point B which craft is shown in three positions. Points A and B where providing thrust from the power units are sized as well and at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the craft such that the craft is stationary overcoming the effect of free flow (u). At point D, the craft is shown in a position such that the resultant of Drag and thrust forces results in movement from point A to point B. The angle 35 of the axis of symmetry (V) in relation to the desired course depends on: WO 2013/160707 PCT/GR2013/000026 12 A. The speed of the free flow (u) relative to the level of humidity, density and temperature of the fluid. B. The angle of the free flow (u) with respect to the desired course. C. The fluidic resistance presented by the craft in accordance with its design. 5 Fig. 8 presents a craft which consists of two parts A and B, where A is a part localized to the craft's front portion which, according to this application is bounded between the extreme front of the craft and the point of application of Drag (D) brought on craft from the surrounding stream flow (u) when it's axis is parallel to the axis of the craft and the direction from the front to part towards 10 the back and wherein the B segment of the craft which is limited by the extension of the section A to the back end of the craft and is axially symmetric about its longitudinal axis. Featured units are available (2) (2.1) provide thrust (T) solar collector surface (29) which is firmly attached to part B of the craft and part (6) inside the section B in which can move load ( 7) along an axis which is parallel or coincident of the axis of symmetry of the portion B. By this movement is achieved by the 15 displacement of the center of gravity (CG) with respect to the center of lift (CL) in the longitudinal axis of the craft, which function the sole aim and use is the determination of the craft's equilibrium pitch angle so as to permit the proper orientation in the above axis, closely adapted to this system. The arrow (5) illustrates the direction of the solar radiation. The movement of the load (7) is achieved by means of a transmission from a servomotor inside an appropriate configuration of the 20 interior (6). In the present fig. the load (7) locates in a position such that the (CL) and (CG) coincide that the craft is maintained at a position parallel to the horizon. The element (41) is RCLK cover elements that make up the part of the craft. Fig. 9 shows the front view of Figure 7 clearly visible the parts A and B, the relative rotation 25 between which, if through the drives, (2), (2.1) and fins (4), (4.1), (5) (5.1) ensures a certain corner of part A about the roll axis, ensuring part B certain corner along the roll axis such that the solar energy collection system (29) firmly attached on it, to be efficiently oriented towards the solar flux (S). For this operation to be feasible, according to the design, it is necessary the part's B center of gravity to coincide with its center of lift. 30 Fig. 10 presents a craft manufactured according to the present application in side view. The thrust application points upon the linking rods define a plane perpendicular to the horizon. Thrust is provided by one of the two units which locates closer to the incoming external flow (u). On the surface of the craft is firmly attached a solar array (29). Also the load (7) have been moved to the 35 rear of the craft so that the center of gravity (CG) is located closer to the rear of the craft in WO 2013/160707 PCT/GR2013/000026 13 comparison with the center of lift (CL) resulting in the success of appropriate angle of the craft around the pitch angle for the solar arrays to be oriented towards the solar flux (S). The pitch equilibrium state is tuned from the movement of the load (7) towards the rear of the craft results in the craft to rotate about an axis which intersects the vertical plane defined by the points of 5 application of the thrust forces from the thrust units to the connecting rods and the axis of the craft. The craft's pitch equilibrium state depends upon: A. The position along the longitudinal axis of the point of application of the resultant of forces according to the design of the craft in relation to the surrounding flow's angle of attack. B. The distance between the center of gravity (CG) and the center of buoyancy (CL). 10 C. The distance from the points of application of the above from the thrust force's application center. D. The speed of the surrounding flow (u) E. The characteristics of the ambient fluid. F. The size of the drag (D) presented by the craft in accordance with its design. 15 G. The corner of the provided thrust. The movement of the load (7) into (6) is achieved by servomotor which receives commands from computing unit in accordance with sensors for determining the angle of the solar flux (S) in relation to the craft's longitudinal axis in order for the best possible angle between the solar flux (S) and the solar array (29) to be achieved. 20 Fig. 11 presents a craft as detailed in Fig. 10 oriented in a manner such that the modules (29) are oriented in the direction of solar radiation (5) which in this plan differs from that presented in the fig. 10. In this plan the load (7) has moved closer to the front of the craft. Fig. 12 presents the craft of fig. 8 with the corresponding numbering for the items presented in a 25 position such that the line defined by the thrust application points is parallel to the horizon. In this design the load (7) is located in a position such that (CL) and (CG) coincide so that the craft is maintained in a position parallel to the horizon. Fig. 13 presents craft of this application in such a position that the thrust application points define 30 a line parallel to the horizon. The craft according to what is described in Figure 10 is oriented in such a way that the solar array (29) is oriented towards the solar flux (5). In this design the load (7) has been moved closer to the rear portion of the craft. Fig. 14 presents a craft in such a position that the thrust units are in level parallel to the horizon. 35 The craft according to what is described in Figure 10 is oriented in such a way that the solar arrays WO 2013/160707 PCT/GR2013/000026 14 (29) are oriented towards the solar flux (S). In this design the load (7) has been moved closer to the front of the craft. Fig. 15 presents all the components that are attached on the connecting rod (21) as follows: motor 5 (9) the axis of which is firmly attached propeller (8). The motor (9) is firmly attached by screws (10) on element (11) which is mounted through the axles (13), (14) at element (44) in such a way as to allow rotation in relation to the element (44), with axis of rotation (74) defined by the connecting elements (13) and (14). The previous mentioned (74) and (14) are presented in fig.16. On the element (11) is firmly attached a servo motor (15) on the shaft of which is firmly mounted a gear 10 (16) which, according to the design of the system is in mesh with gear (17) which is firmly attached to the element (44), in a concentric position with the connection elements (13) and (14) in a manner such that the rotation of the gear (16) from the servomotor (15) to drive in rotation the element (11) relative to the element (44) resulting the change in the angle of attack of the propeller (8) in order thereby the achievement of direction change of the thrust provided by it, 15 normal to plane perpendicular intersecting from the line defined by the longitudinal axes of the elements (13), (14). The element (44) is mounted on the rod (21) in such a way as for its rotation around it to be possible. The elements (44) position along the rod (21) is limited by element (20) which is firmly mounted on the rod (21) towards the craft and of any kind of ring shaped element fixed by any means on the rod (21) towards the opposite direction. On (44) is firmly mounted 20 element (12) on which lies firmly attached servo motor (18) on the shaft of which is firmly mounted gear (19). The servomotor (18) is attached to the element (12) in a manner and in such a position that the gear (19) is in mesh with a gear (20) which is firmly attached to the connecting rod (21) via the screw (22). The rotation of the gear (19) by the servomotor (18) results in the rotation of the elements (12), (44), (11), (9) and hence the change in the angle of attack of the propeller (8) with 25 resulting in the change of direction of the thrust is obtained normal to a plane which is perpendicularly intersected by the connecting rod (21). The flap (4) is adapted to the rod (21) via ball bearings (54) in order for its rotation around the rod (21) to be possible. Within the fin (4) a servomotor (23) is fixed, on the axis of which a gear (24) is firmly mounted, which is in mesh with a gear (25) which is firmly attached in a collinear manner to the element (12) as for the gear (25) 30 center to coincide with the element's (12) center of rotation around the connecting rod (21). The above mentioned results on the fact that the rotation of the servomotor's (23) shaft drives the gear (24) in motion around the gear (25) resulting to the rotation of the flap (4) around the axis of the rod (21). In any case that the servomotor (23) is in stationary state, the rotation of the element (12) by the servomotor (18) drives in rotation, through the gear (25), the flap (4). Also shown cross 35 section of element (28) which is of cylindrical shape of internal diameter greater than the of the WO 2013/160707 PCT/GR2013/000026 15 rod's (21) outer diameter. The element (28) firmly attached to the element (12) or the gear (25) so that through the element (28) rotary motion is transferred to gear (27) which is fixed on servomotor (26) which is firmly mounted within the fin (5). On the servomotor's (26) axle a gear (27) is mounted, which is in mesh with gear (32) in a manner such that rotation of the shaft, 5 through the transmission of motion from the gear (32) towards the gear (27) to drive in rotation the fin (5) around the axis of the connecting rod (21). The gear (32) is firmly attached to the element (28). Whereas the servomotor (26) is at standstill, the rotation of the element (12) by the servomotor (18) is transmitted to the flap (5) through the elements (28), (32), (27) and (26) driving it in rotation. The adjustment of the flap (5) on the connecting rod (21) is achieved via bearings, one 10 of which (55) is presented in this fig. Primary use of the flap (5) is the aerodynamic cover of the connecting rod (21) and secondary the contribution to the crafts control in a plane perpendicular of the straight line determined by the propulsion units. The flap (5) is not surrounded by the thrust flow but by the free flow. Since the thrust shafts and free flow in many cases do not coincide, although through rotation of the element (12) and if the servomotor (26) is at rest the flap (5) will 15 pass a position such that the fins will provide the minimum possible flow resistance. Through the rotation of the servomotor (26) the success of the optimal angle of the flap (5) achieved in relation to the free stream. The servomotor (26) through the proper commands rotates the fin in such a position through which, according to data from sensors which determines the fin's angle of attack in relation to the free flow, it will provide the minimum possible drag. 20 Fig. 16 is a top view of Fig. 15 referring to the corresponding numbered elements shown therein. The fins (4) and (5) are presented to a different position between them around the connecting rod (21). 25 Fig. 17 presents a side view of sections of segments A and B and specifically part of the hull (33) in the front part of which the element (32), made of a material harder than of the hull's in order to comprehend the adaption of the segment A. At element (32) fits firmly the element (34) which is cylindrical and a part of its outer surface is formed as a thread in order for the element (32) to be clamped between nuts (36), (36.1) making thus possible a firm connection of the elements (32) and 30 (34). The element (32) through which passes the element (34) located at a point such that the longitudinal axis of the element (34) coincides with the craft's longitudinal axis (3). Among the nuts (36), (36.1) and element (34) if for the benefit of the hull's sealing if required may be inserted materials suitable for this purpose (not shown in this figure). Also shown in cross section element (35) which is a gear in the center of which a bore is formed of diameter such as to make possible 35 the application of the element (34). By adjusting the elements (34), (32) between them taken that WO 2013/160707 PCT/GR2013/000026 16 the nut comes into contact with the gear (35) having a specific position around the element (32) and hence the longitudinal axis of the craft so that through pin (77) which is inserted between (35) and (36) to ensure specific angle for (35) about the longitudinal axis so as to enable the operation which will be described further below. On the opposite side thereof facing the nut, the gear (35) has 5 on its outer surface configuration which serves as spacer of length such that at the full tightening to that of the inner ring of the bearing (25) of the nut (38) no parts mounted on bearings (25) may come into contact with the elements (35), (36), (32) and (33). On bearings (25) fits the element (31) on which, through links (30) and (30.1) rods (21) and (21.1) fits respectively, which links the forces from the thrust systems (2), (2.1) and the fins (4), (4.1), (5), (5.1). On the element (31) a servomotor 10 (39) is mounted in position such that gear (40) rigidly mounted on its shaft (shown in Fig. 18) to be in mesh with the gear (35) in a manner such that rotation of the shaft of the servomotor (39) to lead to the relative rotation of the elements (31) and (34) around the longitudinal axis of the element (34). On element (31) is mounted via links (42) element (41) which is a streamlined cover and touching the element (32) so as to present the least possible resistance but in a loose way such that 15 the rotation of (31) around the shaft (34) is permitted. The element (31) and all elements that directly or indirectly adapted to this are elements of the craft's part A. The element (34) may be hollow so that through its cavity cables or pipes may pass through which may be transferred from section B to A and vice versa fluids (fuel for thermal engines), voltage (for motors), data from sensors, commands towards any kind of actuators or the surrounding fluid in order to cool elements 20 of part B (such as batteries, electronics, etc.). For sealing the interior of the envelope (33) all elements of part B for which a connection with section A of the craft or the external environment surrounded by element (78), which makes it possible to seal the interior of (33 ). Fig. 18 is the front view of Fig. 17 against which the elements (35), (39) and (40) are presented 25 more clearly. Fig. 19 is a top view of Fig. 17 with the difference over it that the thrust unit appears rotated so that the axis of thrust (T) provided on an angle such us to intersect the plane defined by the longitudinal axis of the craft (3) and the straight line defined by the thrust application points from 30 the thrust units towards to their connecting rods. Fig. 20 is a side view of an alternative construction architecture of section A in which the connecting bars (21), (21.1) adapted to the element (31) via bearings (47), (48) and (47.1), (48.1) respectively in such a manner that the actuators (18), (18.1) by means of which the rotation of the 35 thrust units around the connecting rods longitudinal axis. The servomotors (18), (18.1) firmly WO 2013/160707 PCT/GR2013/000026 17 adapted on (31) through connectors (50) and (50.1) in a manner and in such a position that gears firmly mounted to their axles are in mesh with gears (49) and (49.1) respectively. The gears (49) and (49.1) firmly adapted to the connecting rods (21) and (21.1) by means of screws (51) and (51.1). Between gears (49),(49.1) and connecting rods inserted elements (43), (43.1) on the surface of 5 which holes are formed through which the screws (51), (51.1) pass, in such a way as to insure certain position of the connecting rods between the bearings. On connecting rods adapted firmly elements (52), (52.1) by means of screws (53), (53.1). The elements (52), (52.1) is of sufficient length to those defined distance between the bearings (48), (55) and (48.1), (55.1) respectively so as to ensure a certain distance of the fins (5), ( 5.1) from the the craft's axis of symmetry . The 10 bearings (55) and (55.1) are adapted between the fins (5), (5.1) and the connecting rods (21), (21.1) respectively. Parts of the outer surface of the elements (52), (52.1) are configured as gears which are in mesh with the gears (27), (27.1) which are firmly attached to servomotors (26), (26.1), respectively, which are mounted inside the fins (5), (5.1). 15 Fig. 21 is front view of fig 20 which presents the information contained with their corresponding numbers. Fig. 22 presents in side view data of section A between the thrust unit (2) and connecting rod (21) in accordance with the alternative architecture shown in figures 20 and 21. Specifically shown the 20 motor (9) in the axis of which is firmly attached a propeller (8). The motor (9) is firmly attached by screws (10) on element (11) which is mounted through the axles (13), (14) at element (44) in such a way as to allow rotation in relation to the element ( 44), with axis of rotation (74) defined by the connecting elements (13) and (14). The previous mentioned (74) and (14) are presented in fig. 16. On the element (11) is firmly attached a servo motor (15) on the shaft of which is firmly mounted a 25 gear (16) which, according to the design of the system is in mesh with gear (17) which is firmly attached to the element (44), in a concentric position with the connection elements (13) and (14) in a manner such that the rotation of the gear (16) from the servomotor (15) to drive in rotation the element (11) relative to the element (44) resulting the change in the angle of attack of the propeller (8) thereby the achievement of direction change of the thrust provided by it, normal to 30 plane perpendicular intersected from the line defined by the longitudinal axes of the elements (13) and (14). The element (44) is firmly mounted on the rod (21) through screw (80) so that the rotation of the rod (21) from the servomotor (18), presented earlier in fig. 20, results to the change of the direction of the thrust provided by the propeller (8). The motor (9) is firmly attached by screws (10) on element (11) which is mounted through the axles (13), (14) at element (44) in such a way as to 35 allow rotation in relation to the element ( 44), with axis of rotation (74) defined by the connecting WO 2013/160707 PCT/GR2013/000026 18 elements (13) and (14). The previous mentioned (74) and (14) are presented in fig. 16. On the element (11) is firmly attached a servo motor (15) on the shaft of which is firmly mounted a gear (16) which, according to the design of the system is in mesh with gear (17) which is firmly attached to the element (44), in a concentric position with the connection elements (13) and (14) in a 5 manner such that the rotation of the gear (16) from the servomotor (15) to drive in rotation the element (11) relative to the element (44) resulting the change in the angle of attack of the propeller (8) in order thereby the achievement of direction change of the thrust provided by it, normal to plane perpendicular intersecting from the line defined by the longitudinal axes of the elements (13), (14). Also occurs flap (4) in which is firmly mounted servomotor (23) in a manner 10 such that gear (24) firmly attached to its shaft is in mesh with gearing section of element (37) through which the screw (81) is firmly attached the rod (21). The rod (21) passes through the center of the geared portion of the element (37) so that rotation of the servomotor (23) or the rotation of the connecting rod (21) since the servo (23) is at a standstill to drive in rotation about the axis of the rod (21) the flap (4). Between the element (44) and the bearing (54) which is interposed between 15 the flap (4) and the connecting rod (21) inserted element (32) acting as a spacer, ensuring specific distance between the element (44) and the fin (4). Between the flap (5) and the rod (21) inserted bearings, one of which the end towards the flap (4) numbered (55) shown in this fig. Between the bearings (55) and the bearing (54) locates spacer through which ensures proper distance between the fins (4) and (5) to allow the relative rotation between them. 20 25 30 35

Claims (15)

1. A neutral buoyancy craft, characterized from the following: its guidance, navigation and control are achieved through forces produced from two thrust units locate in opposite positions against the 5 craft's longitudinal axis and fins suspended around link rods which transfer the powers produced by the thrust units and the fins exclusively to the craft's segment (A), which locates between the extreme front of the craft and the section on which the drag force (D) applies as the surrounding flow's (u) axis is parallel to the craft's longitudinal axis and its direction from its front portion towards its back. 10
2. According to claim 1, a neutral buoyancy craft, characterized by the fact that on its outer surface between the closest to the stern end of segment (A) and the craft's rear edge, are not formed or adapted any kind of fins or thrust units or any kind of devices that could supply thrust, stabilization, and control of the craft around the roll, pitch and yaw axes.
3. According to claim 1, a neutral buoyancy craft, comprising a pair of thrust units (2) (2.1) disposed 15 on opposite sides of the craft's longitudinal axis, the forces of which are transferred to the segment A via connecting rods (21), (21.1) of such length as for the turbulent thrust flow produced by the attached upon them thrust units (2) (2.1) not to disturb the craft's boundary layer as the craft moves normal to a plane determined by its longitudinal axis and the direction of the surrounding flow, as this level is intersected perpendicularly from the line determined by the thrust application 20 points and also when the direction of the surrounding flow, the direction of the thrust forces and the crafts longitudinal axis are parallel.
4. According to claim 1, a neutral buoyancy craft comprising a system which penetrates the segment (A) and is characterized by rigidity in order to effectively transmit all forces from systems fixed on each of the connecting rods (21), (21.1) towards the craft. 25
5. According to claim 1, a neutral buoyancy craft comprising: a segment (A) which is an independent part of the craft connected to the rest of the craft by means that ensure the effective transfer of powers from the one part to the other allowing also the relative rotation between the two parts by 360 degrees around the craft's longitudinal axis.
6. According to claim 1, a neutral buoyancy craft which for the efficient control through powers 30 acting on the part A comprises: a set of two fins suspended on each link rod in positions along the rods longitudinal axis as for one fin of each set to be in the thrust flow of the thrust unit which is adjusted to its corresponding link rod and the other to cover the distance between the thrust flow and the crafts boundary layer. WO 2013/160707 PCT/GR2013/000026 20
7. According to claim 1, a neutral buoyancy craft comprising: The thrust units (2) and (2.1) consist of motors (9), (9.1) on the axes of which are firmly adapted propellers (8), (8.1), the motors (9), (9.1) are firmly mounted with screws (10) on elements (11), (11.1), which are mounted via shafts (13), (14) and (13.1), (14.1) on elements (44), (44.1) respectively in such a way as to allow rotation in 5 relation to the elements (44), (44.1) with rotation axis of each the longitudinal axes of the shafts (13), (14) and (13.1) (14.1) respectively. On (11), (11.1) are firmly mounted servo motors (15), (15.1) respectively on the axes of which are firmly mounted gears (16), (16.1) respectively which are in mesh with gears (17), (17.1), which are firmly attached to the elements (44), (44.1) in a concentric position with the connection elements (13), (14) and (13.1), (14.1) respectively in such a manner 10 that the rotation of gears (16), (16.1) from the servomotors (15), (15.1) respectively will drive in rotation the elements (11), (11.1) in relation with the elements (44), (44.1) and hence result the direction change of the thrust produced from each of the propellers (8), (8.1) normal to planes perpendicular to the lines defined by the connection elements (13), (14) and (13.1) (14.1) axes respectively. 15
8. According to claim 1, a neutral buoyancy craft, characterized from the fact that after the proper commands and for the change of the crafts direction, the thrust units (2), (2.1) and the fins (4), (4.1) rotate around axes that are normal to a plane which intersects vertically the plane defined by the axles (13), (13.1) longitudinal axes according to the following: The connection bars (21) and (21.1) are firmly adapted on element (31) via bases (30) and (30.1) respectively. The elements (44), (44.1) 20 are mounted on rods (21) and (21.1) in such a way as for their rotation around them to be allowed. On the elements (44), (44.1) are firmly attached elements (12), (12.1) respectively on which are firmly mounted servomotors (18), (18.1) respectively the axis of which are firmly mounted gears (19), (19.1). The servomotors (18), (18.1) are fixed on elements (12), (12.1) in a manner and in positions such that the gears (19), (19.1) are in mesh with gears (20), (20.1) which are firmly 25 attached to connecting rods (21), (21.1) by means of screws (22), (22.1). The rotation of the gears (19), (19.1) from the servomotors (18), (18.1) drives in rotation the elements (12), (44), (11), (9) and (12.1), (44.1), (11.1), (9.1) and consequently varying the angle of attack of the propellers (8), (8.1) with the effect of changing the direction of thrust normal to levels - vertically intersected by the connecting rods (21), (21.1). On rods (21) and (21.1) are suspended fin devices each of which 30 consists of two fins (4), (5) and (4.1), (5.1) respectively. The fins are intended to cover their corresponding rod contributing to the control of the roll angle (Roll) by counter-rotation and control the craft's angle relative to the plane defined by the axis of the craft and the application points of thrust forces from the thrust units to the connecting rods via unidirectional rotation, towards the desired direction. The fins (4) and (4.1) are of such length and are located in positions such that 35 their outer surface enclosed by the thrust flow of the thrust unit mounted on their corresponding WO 2013/160707 PCT/GR2013/000026 21 rod. The fins (5) and (5.1) are of such length and are located in positions such that their outer surface enclosed by the surrounding flow (u) between the fins (4) and (4.1) respectively and the crafts hull. The fins (4), (5), (4.1), (5.1) are rotated by servos (23), (26), (23.1), (26.1) respectively around the connecting rods (21) and (21.1). This is achieved through torque transmission from 5 gears (24), (27), (24.1), (27.1) rigidly attached to the gear axes (25), (32), (25.1), (32.1). The gears (25), (32) are firmly attached to component (12) through the element (28) in a manner such that, if the servo motors (23), (26) are in brake mode, during rotation of the element (12) from the actuator (18), are driving in rotation and fins (4), (5). Corresponding gears (25.1), (32.1) is firmly attached to element (12.1) through the element (28.1) in a manner such that, if the actuators 10 (1.23), (26.1) are at a standstill (brake), during rotation of the element (12.1) from the actuator (18.1), are entrained in rotation and fins (4.1), (5.1). In order to efficiently performance fins through the servomotor may, apart for the purpose of control, to rotate around the rod so that, in accordance with data collected from sensors on the angle of the envelope of these flow instructions from computer management system of the servo motors, to occupy positions such as to present the 15 least possible fluidic resistance whenever their assistance for the control of the craft is not required.
9. According to claim 1 a neutral buoyancy craft, comprising: thrust units (2), (2.1) and fins (4), (4.1) which afterthe proper commands and for the change of the crafts direction, rotate normal to planes that are vertically intersecting from the straight line defined by the thrust units (2), (2.1) application points towards their corresponding connecting rods according to the following: 20 The connecting rods (21) and (21.1) adapted to the element (31) via bearings (47), (48) and (47.1), (48.1) respectively, in a manner such that the servo motors (18), (18.1) through which is achieved the rotation of the thrust units around axis which coincides with the plane defined by the craft's longitudinal axis and the thrust shafts, since they have a direction parallel to the axis of symmetry, be located in such a position that each device acting in corresponding connecting rod of the thrust 25 unit to the hull of the craft. The servo motors (18), (18.1) are firmly adapted on (31) through connection elements (50), (50.1) respectively in a manner and in such a position that gears firmly mounted to their axes are in mesh with gears (49) and (49.1) respectively. The gears (49) and (49.1) firmly adapted to the rods (21), (21.1) by means of screws (51), (51.1). Inserted between the gears (49) and (49.1) and the rods (21), (21.1) are elements (43), (43.1) on the surface of which holes are 30 formed through which the screws (51), (51.1) pass in a manner such that they are firmly connected with their responding rods (21), (21.1) defining their position between the bearings (47), (48) and (47.1), (48.1) respectively. On connecting rods (21), (21.1) firmly adapted elements (44), (44.1) by means of screws (80), (80.1) respectively on which the motor bases (11), (11.1) are axially connected in a manner that the rotation of the servos (18), (18.1) results in the rotation of the 35 motors (9),(9.1) which-further results in the change of the propellers (8), (8.1) angle of attack and WO 2013/160707 PCT/GR2013/000026 22 the thrust provided normal to a plane which is intersected by the straight line defined by the thrust application points. On connecting rods adapted firmly elements (52), (52.1) by means of screws (53), (53.1). The elements (52), (52.1) is of sufficient length to those defined distance between the bearings (48), (55) and (48.1), (55.1) respectively so as to ensure a certain distance of the fins (5), ( 5 5.1) from the craft's longitudinal axis. The bearings (55) and (55.1) are adapted to the fins (5), (5.1) so as to be inserted between the fins (5), (5.1) and the connecting rods (21), (21.1) respectively. Parts of the outer surface of the cells (52), (52.1) are configured as gears which are in mesh with gears (27), (27.1) which are firmly attached to servomotors (26), (26.1), respectively, which are fixed inside the fins (5), (5.1) respectively.
10 10. According to claim 5 a neutral buoyancy craft, characterized from the following: Sections A and B consist two separate systems linked to each other in such a way as to: A. Ensure the stiffness of the connections between them in the exercise of all except rotational forces B. To allow the relative rotation between the two sections by 360 degrees around the craft's 15 longitudinal axis. On the section A the following are located: a. All the propulsion and direction's control systems. b. Sensors through which data necessary for the craft's navigation are provided to the crafts fly by wire system. Goal of the function described is, given that all the necessary systems for the craft's guidance, 20 navigation and control locate on the section A and the Section B is of a shape symmetrical by rotation around the craft's longitudinal axis, the center of lift as well as the center of gravity locate also on the craft's longitudinal axis makes possible the success of the envelopes orientation around its longitudinal axis in order for higher efficiency achievement of systems firmly attached to the section B without any impact on the craft's handling as well as its flow resistance characteristics. 25
11. According to claim 5 a neutral buoyancy craft, comprising: Sections A and B which are connected through adjustment element (34) on element (32) which is made out of material harder than the envelope's located in the front of section of B. The element (34) is cylindrical and a portion of its outer surface is formed so that the element (32) can be clamped between nuts (36), (36.1) thus making it possible to adapt the firm attachment between the parts (32) and (34). The 30 longitudinal axis of the parts (32) bore through which passes the element (34) and the longitudinal axis of the part (34) coincides with the craft's longitudinal axis. A gear (35) in the center of which a bore is formed of diameter, such as to be possible its application on part (34). Through the tension between the nuts (34), (32) and through pin (77) a fixed position of the gear (35) in relation to the part (32) may be established. On the opposite side of the attachment with the part (36) the gear 35 (35) has on its outer surface configuration which serves as spacer of length such that during this WO 2013/160707 PCT/GR2013/000026 23 complete clamping of the inner ring of the bearing (25) from the nut (38) none of the parts attached between the bearing (25) and the propellers (8),(8.1) except of the gear(40) cannot come into contact with the elements (35), (36), (32),(38) and (33). On the outer surface of the bearing (25) the part (31) mounts which acts as the base for the linking rods (21) and (21.1) through which all thrust 5 and control forces are linked upon it. On the element (31) adapted servomotor (39) in a position such that gear (40) firmly attached to its shaft is in mesh with the gear (35) in such a way that the rotation of the axis of the servomotor (39) drives in relative rotation the base (31) thus all parts of segment A in relation with the part (32) thus all the parts of segment B. The element (34) may be hollow so that through its cavity to be possible for cables or pipes pass transferring from B to A and 10 vice versa fluids (fuel for thermal engines), voltage (an electric motor), data from sensors, commands, or surrounding fluid to the cooling elements of section B (such as batteries, electronics, etc.). For sealing the interior of the element (33) all elements of Section B that require connection with section A board or with the external environment surrounded by an element (78), which makes it possible to seal the interior of the (33 ). 15
12. According to claims 1-2, 6, a neutral buoyancy craft, characterized from the following: The shape of the outer surface of part B is a shape of revolution around its longitudinal axis , the center of gravity coincides with the part's B longitudinal axis and determined along that by a moveable normal to the part's B longitudinal axis load the use of which is exclusively the adjustment of the craft's equilibrium pitch angle, in relation to the size and corner of the provided thrust and the size 20 of the produced drag, making it possible for the craft to obtain and maintain in such corners around the pitch axis such as for systems firmly attached on it to succeed operation of higher efficiency as: A. The craft hovers overcoming the forces acting on it caused from the surrounding flow. B. The craft moves in a plane parallel to the horizon, overcoming the forces acting on it caused from the surrounding flow. 25 C. The craft is in a controlled drift, moving in the horizontal plane, under the influence of the surrounding flow.
13. Navigation method of a craft that was described in claims 1-12 characterized by the fact that according to the environmental conditions as well as the crafts mission needs after commands to the fly by wire system the navigation control is obtained through one of the following ways: 30 A. After command to the fly by wire system, as the crafts equilibrium roll angle is defined the one on which the axis defined by the thrust application points is parallel to the horizon. The pilots control commands are transferred to motors and fins actuator systems so the control of the craft will be accomplished according to the following: Thrust is provided by both units WO 2013/160707 PCT/GR2013/000026 24 - Roll control is achieved through counter-rotation of the thrust units on low external flow speed and through contra rotation of the fins on external flow speeds of level on which the fins may provide sufficient force in respect of providing the desired rotation of the craft around its longitudinal axis. 5 * Yaw control is achieved through contra rotation of the thrust units on low flow speed and through contra rotation of the fins on external flow speeds of level on which the fins may provide sufficient force on providing the desired rotation of the craft around its longitudinal axis until the axis defined by the thrust application points is perpendicular to the level defined by the crafts longitudinal axis and the desired direction and after that through unidirectional rotation of the thrust units on low 10 fluid speed and through unidirectional rotation of the fins on fluid speeds of level on which the fins may provide sufficient force towards the desired direction. * Pitch control is achieved through unidirectional rotation of the thrust units on low fluid speed and through unidirectional rotation of the fins on fluid speeds of level on which they may provide sufficient force towards the desired direction. 15 B. After command to the fly by wire system as the crafts equilibrium roll angle is defined the one on which the axis defined by the thrust application points is parallel to the horizon. The pilots control commands are transferred to motors and fins actuator systems so the control of the craft will be accomplished according to the following: - Thrust is provided by both units 20 * Roll control is achieved through counter-rotation of the thrust units on low fluid speed and through contra rotation of the fins on fluid speeds of level on which the fins may provide sufficient force on providing the desired rotation of the craft around its longitudinal axis. * Yaw control is achieved through the rotation towards the desired direction of the thrust unit located closer to the same. 25 e Pitch control is achieved through unidirectional rotation of the thrust units on low relative fluid flow velocity and through unidirectional rotation of the fins on fluid speeds of level on which they may provide sufficient force towards the desired direction. if after a command from the pilot, on behalf of achievement higher efficiency from systems attached to the craft, as the craft's equilibrium pitch angle is one that's not parallel with the horizon 30 the pilot's control commands are transferred to motors and the fins actuator systems in a way that the control of the craft will be accomplished according to all the above described for thrust, yaw and pitch with the roll control to be accomplished according to the following: * Roll control is achieved through counter-rotation of the thrust units on low fluid speed and through counter-rotation of the fins on fluid speeds of level on which the fins may provide sufficient 35 force on providing the desired rotation of the craft around its longitudinal axis in all cases that the WO 2013/160707 PCT/GR2013/000026 25 craft's equilibrium pitch angle and the external fluid's flow direction define a corner of degrees that differential of thrust level would not affect sufficiently the crafts movement around it's longitudinal axis. In all cases that the craft's equilibrium pitch angle and the external fluid's flow direction define a corner of degrees that differential of thrust level would affect sufficiently the craft's roll control 5 this will be achieved by providing thrust of different level between the two thrust units. C. After command to the fly by wire system as the crafts equilibrium roll angle is defined the one on which the axis defined by the thrust application points is vertical to the horizon. The pilots control commands are transferred to motors and fins actuator systems so the control of the craft will be accomplished according to the following: 10 e Thrust is provided by both units * Roll control is achieved through counter-rotation of the thrust units on low fluid speed and through counter-rotation of the fins on fluid speeds of level on which the fins may provide sufficient force on providing the desired rotation of the craft around its longitudinal axis. * Yaw control is achieved through unidirectional rotation of the thrust units on low relative fluid 15 flow velocity and through unidirectional rotation of the fins on fluid speeds of level on which they may provide sufficient force towards the desired direction. * Pitch control is achieved through the rotation towards the desired direction of the thrust unit located closer to the same. If after a command from the pilot, on behalf of the achievement of higher efficiency from systems 20 attached to the craft, the craft's equilibrium pitch angle is one that's not parallel with the horizon the pilot's control commands are transferred to motors and the fins actuator systems in a way that the control of the craft will be accomplished according to the following: * Thrust is provided by the thrust unit which is located closer to the surrounding flow. * Roll control is achieved through the rotation of the unit that offers thrust in a way that the 25 thrust will be provided in a direction that would affect sufficiently the crafts movement around its longitudinal axis. On roll control the fins as well as the thrust unit that does not offer thrust may contribute when the craft's equilibrium pitch angle is of degrees, according to the external flow's direction, that they may produce sufficient power. * Pitch control is achieved through the rotation towards the desired direction of the thrust unit. 30 e Yaw control is achieved through the rotation of each thrust units towards directions through which the resultant force will be in a corner that will have the effect of changing the crafts corner towards the wished direction without affecting the crafts corner around its longitudinal axis.
14. According to claims 1-10 neutral buoyancy craft comprising: a digital control unit through which, in respect to data provided from sensors and limitations provided from the craft's manufacturer, WO 2013/160707 PCT/GR2013/000026 26 the commands according the crafts control are transferred to actuators and power units according the following: A. The success of best deviations of fins and responses of the craft, since the effect of the pilot on the controls are analyzed by computer, which gives the final command depending on the 5 capabilities of the craft in accordance with its specifications in relation with the flight status. B. The stabilization of craft position around its longitudinal axis. C. The normalization of turbulence imposed on the craft. D. The prevention of overloading of the craft by introducing appropriate limiting systems. Limitation systems include some means of measurement (sensors), a computer that compares the 10 measurements with the limits set by the manufacturer according to the structural strength and control capabilities of the craft and limiters through which if approached the predetermined limits are not limited to the angles of the fins as well as the size and divergence angle of the thrust provided. The required for a craft with the specifications of the one presented in this application are the following:
15 A. Limiting the load factor along the longitudinal axis, to prevent the craft's structural overload. B. Restrictions of the rotation rate, to avoid transverse structural overload. C. Limitations of the angular velocity of rotation between the parts A and B, in order to prevent structural overload of the craft's direction systems caused by the section's B moment of inertia. D. Limitation of the angular velocity of rotation between parts A and B, in order to prevent the 20 excess of the craft's direction systems capabilities from the section's B moment of inertia. E. Limitation of the, from the mobile load controlled, equilibrium pitch angle where it tends to get close to a size that relative to the ambient flow would result in the excess of the limits of the craft's structural strength or not advantageous due to the increased drag in relation to the mission and performance of the systems of the reason of which the achievement of craft's equilibrium pitch 25 angle would be tuned. F. Provide thrust at the appropriate angle such that the craft's equilibrium pitch angle to be set in accordance to the craft's drag and the craft's center of gravity application point in order for systems adapted firmly on the craft's envelope to operate with higher efficiency. G. Arrange of the provided thrust appropriate angle and size as for the craft to maintain on the 30 course as it travels with its longitudinal axis in angle under the effect of crosswinds. H. Control of the angle of the craft around the roll axis as for the straight line defined by the thrust application points to intersect perpendicularly the level defined by the external flow's direction and the craft's longitudinal axis, in order for the thrust flow not to disturb the craft's boundary layer.
AU2013254456A 2012-04-24 2013-04-24 Neutral buoyancy craft Abandoned AU2013254456A1 (en)

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GR20120100226A GR20120100226A (en) 2012-04-24 2012-04-24 Neutral buoyancy seacraft
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PCT/GR2013/000026 WO2013160707A2 (en) 2012-04-24 2013-04-24 Neutral buoyancy craft

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CN104950908B (en) * 2015-07-02 2017-08-15 上海交通大学 Stratospheric airship horizontal level control system and implementation method
KR20210124361A (en) * 2019-02-06 2021-10-14 엑스플로트 엘티디. Controlled Floating Solar Module
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GB250602A (en) 1926-04-08 1927-07-08 John Enloe Broyles Improvements in airships
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DE69919905T2 (en) * 1998-12-11 2005-09-08 Southwest Research Institute, San Antonio AUTONOMOUS STRATOSPHERE AIR SHIP
DE10065385A1 (en) * 2000-12-27 2002-07-04 Wolfgang Brix Propeller driven dirigible has steerable propellers on each end to aid maneuvering
CN2564471Y (en) * 2002-08-02 2003-08-06 李喜桥 Target boat
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WO2013160707A2 (en) 2013-10-31
GR20120100226A (en) 2013-11-18

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