WO2023047025A1 - Improved system and method for docking an airship, and airship and receiving structures including same - Google Patents

Improved system and method for docking an airship, and airship and receiving structures including same Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2023047025A1
WO2023047025A1 PCT/FR2022/051457 FR2022051457W WO2023047025A1 WO 2023047025 A1 WO2023047025 A1 WO 2023047025A1 FR 2022051457 W FR2022051457 W FR 2022051457W WO 2023047025 A1 WO2023047025 A1 WO 2023047025A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
airship
cable
receiving structure
securing
aerial drone
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/FR2022/051457
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Guillaume POINTEL
Original Assignee
Flying Whales
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Flying Whales filed Critical Flying Whales
Priority to EP22757983.6A priority Critical patent/EP4405249A1/en
Publication of WO2023047025A1 publication Critical patent/WO2023047025A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B64—AIRCRAFT; AVIATION; COSMONAUTICS
    • B64B—LIGHTER-THAN AIR AIRCRAFT
    • B64B1/00—Lighter-than-air aircraft
    • B64B1/66—Mooring attachments
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B64—AIRCRAFT; AVIATION; COSMONAUTICS
    • B64F—GROUND OR AIRCRAFT-CARRIER-DECK INSTALLATIONS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR USE IN CONNECTION WITH AIRCRAFT; DESIGNING, MANUFACTURING, ASSEMBLING, CLEANING, MAINTAINING OR REPAIRING AIRCRAFT, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; HANDLING, TRANSPORTING, TESTING OR INSPECTING AIRCRAFT COMPONENTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B64F1/00—Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations
    • B64F1/12—Ground or aircraft-carrier-deck installations for anchoring aircraft
    • B64F1/14—Towers or masts for mooring airships or balloons
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B64—AIRCRAFT; AVIATION; COSMONAUTICS
    • B64F—GROUND OR AIRCRAFT-CARRIER-DECK INSTALLATIONS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR USE IN CONNECTION WITH AIRCRAFT; DESIGNING, MANUFACTURING, ASSEMBLING, CLEANING, MAINTAINING OR REPAIRING AIRCRAFT, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; HANDLING, TRANSPORTING, TESTING OR INSPECTING AIRCRAFT COMPONENTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B64F3/00—Ground installations specially adapted for captive aircraft
    • B64F3/02—Ground installations specially adapted for captive aircraft with means for supplying electricity to aircraft during flight
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B64—AIRCRAFT; AVIATION; COSMONAUTICS
    • B64U—UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLES [UAV]; EQUIPMENT THEREFOR
    • B64U10/00—Type of UAV
    • B64U10/10—Rotorcrafts
    • B64U10/13—Flying platforms
    • B64U10/14—Flying platforms with four distinct rotor axes, e.g. quadcopters
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B64—AIRCRAFT; AVIATION; COSMONAUTICS
    • B64U—UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLES [UAV]; EQUIPMENT THEREFOR
    • B64U10/00—Type of UAV
    • B64U10/60—Tethered aircraft
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B64—AIRCRAFT; AVIATION; COSMONAUTICS
    • B64U—UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLES [UAV]; EQUIPMENT THEREFOR
    • B64U50/00—Propulsion; Power supply
    • B64U50/30—Supply or distribution of electrical power
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B64—AIRCRAFT; AVIATION; COSMONAUTICS
    • B64U—UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLES [UAV]; EQUIPMENT THEREFOR
    • B64U50/00—Propulsion; Power supply
    • B64U50/10—Propulsion
    • B64U50/19—Propulsion using electrically powered motors

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a system for securing an airship to a mobile or fixed receiving structure. It also relates to a stowage method implemented in this system, as well as an airship equipped with this system and a suitable receiving structure.
  • the field of the invention is more particularly, but not limited to, that of dirigible balloons.
  • a system for attaching an airship to a receiving structure, comprising a controllable aerial drone for moving between this airship and this receiving structure by carrying a first end of a cable whose second end is fixed to the airship or to the receiving structure and to attach this first end to the receiving structure or to the airship, so that this cable connects the airship to the receiving structure.
  • the Applicant has continued its research with the aim of proposing a system which always aims to facilitate the approach of an airship towards a receiving structure and allows its stowage more easily and more surely than under current conditions, while simplifying the solution previously proposed.
  • An object of the invention is in particular to remedy all or part of the aforementioned drawbacks.
  • a system for securing an airship to a receiving structure comprising at least one controllable aerial drone to move between the receiving structure and the airship, carrying a first end of a cable stowage whose second end is fixed to I receiving structure, and to fix the first end to said airship, so that this cable mechanically connects the airship to the receiving structure.
  • the aerial drone is mechanically fixed to the lashing cable and is supplied with electrical energy by the lashing cable, on the side of its first end of the lashing cable.
  • the power supply of the drone by the cable makes it possible to avoid increasing the weight of the aerial drone. It is no longer necessary for the aerial drone to carry batteries of substantial size and weight.
  • the system may further comprise means for winding up the cable connecting the airship to the receiving structure, so as to bring the airship closer to the receiving structure.
  • the winding means comprise a winding device housed at the level of the receiving structure.
  • the aerial drone can be arranged to start from the receiving structure, the aerial drone being controllable to take the first end of the securing cable to the airship, the second end of which is fixed to the receiving structure and fix the first end to the airship .
  • a method for securing an airship to a receiving structure implemented in a securing system according to the first aspect of the invention, or one or more of its improvements , comprising the steps of: To. control of at least one aerial drone carrying a first end of a securing cable, the second end of which is fixed to the receiving structure, along a trajectory leading it towards the airship, and b. attaching the first end of the lashing cable to a part of the airship.
  • the aerial drone is mechanically fixed on the tie-down cable and is powered by the tie-down cable, on the side of the first end of the tie-down cable.
  • the method further comprises a step of winding the securing cable after fixing its first end to the airship, until a part of the airship substantially joins a part of the receiving structure.
  • the successive steps are at least controlled from the ground.
  • the successive steps are at least controlled from the airship.
  • the aerial drone is programmed to join the airship in autonomous mode from the receiving structure.
  • a structure is proposed for receiving a securing system according to the first aspect of the invention, or one or more of its improvements.
  • FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a first example of implementation of a securing system according to the invention
  • FIG. 2 schematically illustrates an embodiment of a possible mechanical interface and energy supply between the cable and the drone.
  • FIG. 3 schematically illustrates a first embodiment of a possible mechanical interface between the drone and the airship.
  • FIG. 4 schematically illustrates a second embodiment of a possible mechanical interface between the drone and the airship.
  • variants of the invention may in particular be considered comprising only a selection of characteristics described, subsequently isolated from the other characteristics described, if this selection of characteristics is sufficient. to confer a technical advantage or to differentiate the invention from the state of the prior art.
  • This selection includes at least one feature, preferably functional without structural details, or with only part of the structural details if only this part is sufficient to confer a technical advantage or to differentiate the invention from the state of the prior art .
  • the securing system 1 comprises an aerial drone 4 controlled to carry a securing cable 5 unwinding from a drum 31 of a receiving structure s, towards the front of an airship 2 equipped with propulsion units 21, 22 and of a hooking device 23.
  • the device 23 can for example receive a looped end of the securing cable 5.
  • This receiving structure 3 comprises a base 32, possibly self-propelled, resting on a ground or a track S, and a pylon 33 at the top of which is arranged the winding drum 31 .
  • the receiving structure also comprises a curved part 34 designed to receive the nose of the airship 2.
  • Drum 31 may have a horizontal axis driven by a motor (not shown).
  • the drum 31 may be provided with a slot arranged to receive one end of the securing cable 5.
  • the aerial drone 4 is for example of the four-engine type with four propellers.
  • the drone is supplied with energy by means of a power supply cable 41 coupled mechanically to the securing cable 5, as shown in FIG. 2.
  • the drone 4 has a power supply interface 42 able to be powered by the power supply cable 41.
  • the power supply interface 42 in energy can also be a mechanical locking interface of the securing cable 5 on the drone 4.
  • Drone 4 follows an optimized trajectory towards airship 2.
  • the first end 51 can be fixed to the airship, for example by means of a loop of the cable 5 on the attachment device 23.
  • the drum 31 is then driven by the motor to wind the cable 5, the second end of which is now held fixed relative to the airship 2.
  • the winding drum 31 located on the receiving structure 3 is driven until the nose of the airship 2 is in the immediate vicinity of the receiving area 3.
  • the winding control of the cable 5 can be stopped when the nose of the airship 2 substantially comes into contact with the curved receiving device 34.
  • the end 51 of the cable 5 is not directly fixed to the airship 2. It is the drone 4 which is fixed to the airship 2 by means of an interface mechanical.
  • the drone 4 can for example have a loop 43 able to be fixed on the attachment device 23.
  • the body of the drone 4 can for example be captured by a capture device 24, as shown in Figure 4.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Aviation & Aerospace Engineering (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Remote Sensing (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Control Of Position, Course, Altitude, Or Attitude Of Moving Bodies (AREA)

Abstract

A system (1) for docking an airship (2) on a receiving structure (3) comprising at least one unmanned aerial vehicle (4) that can be controlled so as to move between the airship (2) and the receiving structure (3), carrying a first end (51) of a docking cable (5) that has a second end attached to the receiving structure (3), and to attach the first end (51) to the airship (2), such that said cable (5) mechanically connects the airship (2) to the receiving structure (3), wherein the unmanned aerial vehicle (4) is mechanically attached to the docking cable and is supplied with power through the docking cable via the first end (51) of the docking cable (5).

Description

SYSTEME ET PROCEDE D’ARRIMAGE PERFECTIONNE D’UN DIRIGEABLE ETSYSTEM AND METHOD FOR IMPROVED STOWAGE OF AN AIRSHIP AND
DIRIGEABLE ET STRUCTURES RECEPTRICES AINSI EQUIPES AIRSHIP AND RECEIVING STRUCTURES SO EQUIPPED
Domaine technique Technical area
La présente invention concerne un système pour arrimer un dirigeable à une structure réceptrice mobile ou fixe. Elle vise aussi un procédé d’arrimage mis en œuvre dans ce système, ainsi qu’un dirigeable équipé de ce système et une structure réceptrice adaptée. The present invention relates to a system for securing an airship to a mobile or fixed receiving structure. It also relates to a stowage method implemented in this system, as well as an airship equipped with this system and a suitable receiving structure.
Le domaine de l’invention est plus particulièrement, mais de manière non limitative, celui des ballons dirigeables. The field of the invention is more particularly, but not limited to, that of dirigible balloons.
État de la technique antérieure State of the prior art
L’arrimage des grands dirigeables à des mâts de stationnement a toujours été une manœuvre délicate qui nécessitait l’intervention d’un grand nombre de personnes au sol, parfois supérieur à plus d’une centaine, et qui s’avérait longue et présentant des risques à la fois pour les équipages de ces dirigeables et pour les personnes au sol. Cette manœuvre représentait également des coûts opérationnels significatifs. Securing large airships to parking masts has always been a delicate maneuver which required the intervention of a large number of people on the ground, sometimes more than a hundred, and which proved to be long and presenting risks both for the crews of these airships and for those on the ground. This maneuver also represented significant operational costs.
Par ailleurs, le pilotage de ces dirigeables en approche de structures réceptrices au sol est en général complexe du fait de conditions aérodynamiques parfois défavorables à l’approche du sol et de la forte inertie intrinsèque de ces aéronefs. Furthermore, the piloting of these airships when approaching receiving structures on the ground is generally complex due to the sometimes unfavorable aerodynamic conditions when approaching the ground and the high intrinsic inertia of these aircraft.
La demanderesse a déposé la demande W02018/099870 A1 qui décrit un système d’arrimage qui facilite l’approche d’un dirigeable vers une structure réceptrice et permet son arrimage plus aisément et plus sûrement que dans les conditions antérieures. The applicant has filed application W02018/099870 A1 which describes a stowage system which facilitates the approach of an airship to a receiving structure and allows its stowage more easily and more securely than under previous conditions.
À cet effet, il a été proposé un système pour arrimer un dirigeable à une structure réceptrice, comprenant un drone aérien contrôlable pour se déplacer entre ce dirigeable et cette structure réceptrice en emportant une première extrémité d’un câble dont la seconde extrémité est fixée au dirigeable ou à la structure réceptrice et pour fixer cette première extrémité à la structure réceptrice ou au dirigeable, de sorte que ce câble relie le dirigeable à la structure réceptrice. To this end, a system has been proposed for attaching an airship to a receiving structure, comprising a controllable aerial drone for moving between this airship and this receiving structure by carrying a first end of a cable whose second end is fixed to the airship or to the receiving structure and to attach this first end to the receiving structure or to the airship, so that this cable connects the airship to the receiving structure.
Lorsque le drone aérien se déplace depuis la structure réceptrice jusqu’au dirigeable, le drone doit exercer un travail important pour emporter la première extrémité du câble et le déplacer contre la force de gravité. La Demanderesse a poursuivi ses recherches dans le but de proposer un système qui vise toujours à faciliter l’approche d’un dirigeable vers une structure réceptrice et permet son arrimage plus aisément et plus sûrement que dans les conditions actuelles, tout en simplifiant la solution précédemment proposée. When the aerial drone moves from the receiving structure to the airship, the drone has to exert a lot of work to take the first end of the cable and move it against the force of gravity. The Applicant has continued its research with the aim of proposing a system which always aims to facilitate the approach of an airship towards a receiving structure and allows its stowage more easily and more surely than under current conditions, while simplifying the solution previously proposed.
Exposé de l’invention Disclosure of Invention
Un but de l’invention est notamment de remédier à tout ou partie des inconvénients précités. An object of the invention is in particular to remedy all or part of the aforementioned drawbacks.
Selon un premier aspect de l’invention, il est proposé un système pour arrimer un dirigeable à une structure réceptrice, comprenant au moins un drone aérien contrôlable pour se déplacer entre la structure réceptrice et le dirigeable, en emportant une première extrémité d’un câble d’arrimage dont la seconde extrémité est fixée à I structure réceptrice, et pour fixer la première extrémité audit dirigeable, de sorte que ce câble relie mécaniquement le dirigeable à la structure réceptrice. According to a first aspect of the invention, there is proposed a system for securing an airship to a receiving structure, comprising at least one controllable aerial drone to move between the receiving structure and the airship, carrying a first end of a cable stowage whose second end is fixed to I receiving structure, and to fix the first end to said airship, so that this cable mechanically connects the airship to the receiving structure.
Selon l’invention, le drone aérien est mécaniquement fixé sur le câble d’arrimage et est alimenté en énergie électrique par le câble d’arrimage, du côté de sa première extrémité du câble d’arrimage. According to the invention, the aerial drone is mechanically fixed to the lashing cable and is supplied with electrical energy by the lashing cable, on the side of its first end of the lashing cable.
L’alimentation en énergie du drone par le câble permet d’éviter d’alourdir le poids du drone aérien. Il n’est en effet plus nécessaire que le drone aérien emporte des batteries de dimensions et de poids conséquents. The power supply of the drone by the cable makes it possible to avoid increasing the weight of the aerial drone. It is no longer necessary for the aerial drone to carry batteries of substantial size and weight.
Le système peut en outre comporter des moyens pour enrouler le câble reliant le dirigeable à la structure réceptrice, de façon à rapprocher le dirigeable de la structure réceptrice. De préférence, les moyens d’enroulement comprennent un dispositif d’enroulement logé au niveau de la structure réceptrice. The system may further comprise means for winding up the cable connecting the airship to the receiving structure, so as to bring the airship closer to the receiving structure. Preferably, the winding means comprise a winding device housed at the level of the receiving structure.
Avantageusement, le drone aérien peut être agencé pour partir de la structure réceptrice, le drone aérien étant contrôlable pour emporter vers le dirigeable la première extrémité du câble d’arrimage dont la seconde extrémité est fixée à la structure réceptrice et fixer la première extrémité au dirigeable. Advantageously, the aerial drone can be arranged to start from the receiving structure, the aerial drone being controllable to take the first end of the securing cable to the airship, the second end of which is fixed to the receiving structure and fix the first end to the airship .
Selon un deuxième aspect de l’invention, il est proposé un procédé pour arrimer un dirigeable à une structure réceptrice, mis en œuvre dans un système d’arrimage selon le premier aspect de l’invention, ou l’un ou plusieurs de ses perfectionnements, comprenant les étapes de : a. commande d’au moins un drone aérien emportant une première extrémité d’un câble d’arrimage dont la seconde extrémité est fixée à la structure réceptrice, selon une trajectoire le conduisant vers le dirigeable, et b. fixation de la première extrémité du câble d’arrimage à une partie du dirigeable.According to a second aspect of the invention, there is proposed a method for securing an airship to a receiving structure, implemented in a securing system according to the first aspect of the invention, or one or more of its improvements , comprising the steps of: To. control of at least one aerial drone carrying a first end of a securing cable, the second end of which is fixed to the receiving structure, along a trajectory leading it towards the airship, and b. attaching the first end of the lashing cable to a part of the airship.
Le drone aérien est mécaniquement fixé sur le câble d’arrimage et est alimenté par le câble d’arrimage, du côté de la première extrémité du câble d’arrimage. The aerial drone is mechanically fixed on the tie-down cable and is powered by the tie-down cable, on the side of the first end of the tie-down cable.
De préférence, le procédé comporte en outre une étape d’enroulement du câble d’arrimage après fixation de sa première extrémité au dirigeable, jusqu’à ce qu’une partie du dirigeable rejoigne sensiblement une partie de la structure réceptrice. Preferably, the method further comprises a step of winding the securing cable after fixing its first end to the airship, until a part of the airship substantially joins a part of the receiving structure.
Avantageusement, les étapes successives sont au moins contrôlées depuis le sol.Advantageously, the successive steps are at least controlled from the ground.
Avantageusement, les étapes successives sont au moins contrôlées depuis le dirigeable. Advantageously, the successive steps are at least controlled from the airship.
De préférence, le drone aérien est programmé pour rejoindre en mode autonome le dirigeable depuis la structure réceptrice. Preferably, the aerial drone is programmed to join the airship in autonomous mode from the receiving structure.
Selon un troisième aspect de l’invention, il est proposé un dirigeable équipé d’un système d’arrimage selon le premier aspect de l’invention, ou l’un ou plusieurs de ses perfectionnements. According to a third aspect of the invention, there is proposed an airship equipped with a stowage system according to the first aspect of the invention, or one or more of its improvements.
Selon un autre aspect de l’invention, il est proposé une structure pour recevoir un système d’arrimage selon le premier aspect de l’invention, ou l’un ou plusieurs de ses perfectionnements. According to another aspect of the invention, a structure is proposed for receiving a securing system according to the first aspect of the invention, or one or more of its improvements.
Description des figures Description of figures
D’autres avantages et particularités de l’invention apparaîtront à la lecture de la description détaillée de mises en œuvre et de modes de réalisation nullement limitatifs, au regard de dessins annexés sur lesquels : Other advantages and particularities of the invention will appear on reading the detailed description of implementations and in no way limiting embodiments, with regard to the appended drawings in which:
[Fig. 1] illustre de façon schématique un premier exemple de mise en œuvre d’un système d’arrimage selon l’invention, [Fig. 1] schematically illustrates a first example of implementation of a securing system according to the invention,
[Fig. 2] illustre de manière schématique un exemple de réalisation une interface mécanique et d’alimentation en énergie possible entre le câble et le drone. [Fig. 2] schematically illustrates an embodiment of a possible mechanical interface and energy supply between the cable and the drone.
[Fig. 3] illustre de manière schématique un premier exemple de réalisation d’une interface mécanique possible entre le drone et le dirigeable. [Fig. 4] illustre de manière schématique un second exemple de réalisation d’une interface mécanique possible entre le drone et le dirigeable. [Fig. 3] schematically illustrates a first embodiment of a possible mechanical interface between the drone and the airship. [Fig. 4] schematically illustrates a second embodiment of a possible mechanical interface between the drone and the airship.
Description de mode de réalisation Description of embodiment
Les modes de réalisation décrits ci-après n’étant nullement limitatifs, on pourra notamment considérer des variantes de l’invention ne comprenant qu’une sélection de caractéristiques décrites, par la suite isolées des autres caractéristiques décrites, si cette sélection de caractéristiques est suffisante pour conférer un avantage technique ou pour différencier l’invention par rapport à l’état de la technique antérieure. Cette sélection comprend au moins une caractéristique, de préférence fonctionnelle sans détails structurels, ou avec seulement une partie des détails structurels si cette partie uniquement est suffisante pour conférer un avantage technique ou pour différencier l’invention par rapport à l’état de la technique antérieure. The embodiments described below being in no way limiting, variants of the invention may in particular be considered comprising only a selection of characteristics described, subsequently isolated from the other characteristics described, if this selection of characteristics is sufficient. to confer a technical advantage or to differentiate the invention from the state of the prior art. This selection includes at least one feature, preferably functional without structural details, or with only part of the structural details if only this part is sufficient to confer a technical advantage or to differentiate the invention from the state of the prior art .
Sur les figures, un élément apparaissant sur plusieurs figures conserve la même référence. In the figures, an element appearing in several figures retains the same reference.
On va décrire, en référence à la figure 1 , un premier exemple de réalisation d’un système d’arrimage 1 selon l’invention, en même temps que le procédé mis en œuvre dans ce système. A description will be given, with reference to FIG. 1, of a first embodiment of a securing system 1 according to the invention, at the same time as the method implemented in this system.
Le système d’arrimage 1 comprend un drone aérien 4 contrôlé pour emporter un câble d’arrimage 5 se déroulant depuis un tambour 31 d’une structure réceptrice s, vers l’avant d’un dirigeable 2 équipé de groupes propulseurs 21 , 22 et d’un dispositif d’accroché 23. Le dispositif 23 peut par exemple recevoir une extrémité en boucle du câble d’arrimage 5. The securing system 1 comprises an aerial drone 4 controlled to carry a securing cable 5 unwinding from a drum 31 of a receiving structure s, towards the front of an airship 2 equipped with propulsion units 21, 22 and of a hooking device 23. The device 23 can for example receive a looped end of the securing cable 5.
Cette structure réceptrice 3 comprend une base 32, éventuellement automotrice, en appui sur un sol ou une piste S, et un pylône 33 au sommet duquel est disposé le tambour d’enroulement 31 . This receiving structure 3 comprises a base 32, possibly self-propelled, resting on a ground or a track S, and a pylon 33 at the top of which is arranged the winding drum 31 .
Dans l’exemple représenté, la structure réceptrice comporte également une partie incurvée 34 prévue pour recevoir le nez du dirigeable 2. In the example shown, the receiving structure also comprises a curved part 34 designed to receive the nose of the airship 2.
Le tambour 31 peut présenter un axe horizontal entraîné par un moteur (non représenté). Le tambour 31 peut être est pourvu d’une fente agencée pour recevoir une extrémité du câble d’arrimage 5. Drum 31 may have a horizontal axis driven by a motor (not shown). The drum 31 may be provided with a slot arranged to receive one end of the securing cable 5.
Le drone aérien 4 est par exemple du type quadrimoteur avec quatre hélices. Le drone est alimenté en énergie au moyen d’un câble d’alimentation électrique 41 couplé mécaniquement au câble d’arrimage 5, comme l’illustre la figure 2. Le drone 4 dispose d’une interface 42 d’alimentation en énergie apte à être alimentée par le câble d’alimentation électrique 41. L’interface 42 d’alimentation en énergie peut également être une interface de verrouillage mécanique du câble d’arrimage 5 sur le drone 4. The aerial drone 4 is for example of the four-engine type with four propellers. The drone is supplied with energy by means of a power supply cable 41 coupled mechanically to the securing cable 5, as shown in FIG. 2. The drone 4 has a power supply interface 42 able to be powered by the power supply cable 41. The power supply interface 42 in energy can also be a mechanical locking interface of the securing cable 5 on the drone 4.
Lorsque le dirigeable 2 se trouve à l’approche de la structure réceptrice 3, le pilote ou un opérateur au sol déclenche une procédure d’arrimage avec le décollage du drone aérien 4 depuis la structure réceptrice 3 en emportant l’extrémité 51 du câble d’arrimage 5 verrouillé et alimentant le drone 4. Le tambour d’enroulement 31 est contrôlé en mode roue libre afin de libérer les câbles d’arrimage et d’alimentation en déroulement et permettre au drone 4 de tirer le câble d’arrimage en limitant les efforts de traction. Le drone 4 suit une trajectoire optimisée en direction du dirigeable 2. When the airship 2 is approaching the receiving structure 3, the pilot or an operator on the ground triggers a docking procedure with the takeoff of the aerial drone 4 from the receiving structure 3 by carrying the end 51 of the cable lashing 5 locked and supplying the drone 4. The winding drum 31 is controlled in freewheel mode in order to release the unwinding lashing and supply cables and allow the drone 4 to pull the lashing cable by limiting tensile stresses. Drone 4 follows an optimized trajectory towards airship 2.
La première extrémité 51 peut être fixée au dirigeable, par exemple au moyen d’une boucle du câble 5 sur le dispositif d’accroche 23. The first end 51 can be fixed to the airship, for example by means of a loop of the cable 5 on the attachment device 23.
Le tambour 31 est ensuite entraîné par le moteur pour enrouler le câble 5 dont la seconde extrémité est désormais maintenue fixe par rapport au dirigeable 2. The drum 31 is then driven by the motor to wind the cable 5, the second end of which is now held fixed relative to the airship 2.
Le tambour d’enroulement 31 situé sur la structure réceptrice 3 est entraîné jusqu’à ce que le nez du dirigeable 2 se trouve à proximité immédiate de la zone réceptrice 3. The winding drum 31 located on the receiving structure 3 is driven until the nose of the airship 2 is in the immediate vicinity of the receiving area 3.
La commande d’enroulement du câble 5 peut être arrêtée lorsque le nez du dirigeable 2 entre sensiblement en contact avec le dispositif incurvé récepteur 34. The winding control of the cable 5 can be stopped when the nose of the airship 2 substantially comes into contact with the curved receiving device 34.
On va maintenant décrire en référence à la figure 3 un autre mode de réalisation d’un système d’arrimage selon l’invention, en même temps que le procédé d’arrimage mis en œuvre dans ce système. We will now describe with reference to Figure 3 another embodiment of a securing system according to the invention, together with the securing method implemented in this system.
À la différence du système 1 qui vient d’être décrit, l’extrémité 51 du câble 5 n’est pas directement fixée sur le dirigeable 2. C’est le drone 4 qui est fixé sur le dirigeable 2 au moyen d’une interface mécanique. Le drone 4 peut par exemple présenter une boucle 43 apte à être fixée sur le dispositif d’accroche 23. Unlike the system 1 which has just been described, the end 51 of the cable 5 is not directly fixed to the airship 2. It is the drone 4 which is fixed to the airship 2 by means of an interface mechanical. The drone 4 can for example have a loop 43 able to be fixed on the attachment device 23.
Le corps du drone 4 peut par exemple être capturé par un dispositif de capture 24, comme l’illustre la figure 4. The body of the drone 4 can for example be captured by a capture device 24, as shown in Figure 4.
Bien sûr, l’invention n’est pas limitée aux exemples qui viennent d’être décrits et de nombreux aménagements peuvent être apportés à ces exemples sans sortir du cadre de l’invention. De plus, les différentes caractéristiques, formes, variantes et modes de réalisation de l’invention peuvent être associés les uns avec les autres selon diverses combinaisons dans la mesure où ils ne sont pas incompatibles ou exclusifs les uns des autres. Of course, the invention is not limited to the examples which have just been described and many adjustments can be made to these examples without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, the different characteristics, shapes, variants and embodiments of the invention may be associated with each other in various combinations insofar as they are not incompatible or exclusive of each other.

Claims

Revendications Claims
1. Système (1 ) pour arrimer un dirigeable (2) à une structure réceptrice (3), comprenant au moins un drone aérien (4) contrôlable pour se déplacer entre ledit dirigeable (2) et ladite structure réceptrice (3), en emportant une première extrémité (51 ) d’un câble d’arrimage (5) dont la seconde extrémité est fixée à ladite structure réceptrice (3), et pour fixer ladite première extrémité (51 ) audit dirigeable (2), de sorte que ce câble (5) relie mécaniquement ledit dirigeable (2) à ladite structure réceptrice (3), caractérisé en ce que ledit drone aérien (4) est mécaniquement fixé sur câble d’arrimage et est alimenté en énergie par le câble d’arrimage, du côté de la première extrémité (51 ) du câble d’arrimage (5). 1. System (1) for securing an airship (2) to a receiving structure (3), comprising at least one aerial drone (4) controllable to move between said airship (2) and said receiving structure (3), carrying a first end (51) of a lashing cable (5) the second end of which is fixed to said receiving structure (3), and for fixing said first end (51) to said dirigible (2), so that this cable (5) mechanically connects said dirigible (2) to said receiving structure (3), characterized in that said aerial drone (4) is mechanically fixed to the lashing cable and is supplied with energy by the lashing cable, on the side of the first end (51) of the securing cable (5).
2. Système d’arrimage (1 ) selon la revendication 1 , comportant en outre des moyens (31 ) pour enrouler ledit câble (5) reliant le dirigeable (2) à la structure réceptrice (3), de façon à rapprocher ledit dirigeable (2) de ladite structure réceptrice (3). 2. Securement system (1) according to claim 1, further comprising means (31) for winding said cable (5) connecting the airship (2) to the receiving structure (3), so as to bring said airship ( 2) of said receiving structure (3).
3. Système d’arrimage (1 ) selon la revendication précédente, dans lequel les moyens d’enroulement comprennent un dispositif d’enroulement (61 ) logé au niveau de la structure réceptrice (3). 3. Securement system (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the winding means comprise a winding device (61) housed at the receiving structure (3).
4. Système d’arrimage (1 ) selon l’une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel le drone aérien (4) est agencé pour partir de la structure réceptrice (3), ledit drone aérien (4) étant contrôlable pour (i) emporter vers le dirigeable (2) la première extrémité (51 ) du câble d’arrimage (5) dont la seconde extrémité est fixée à ladite structure réceptrice (3) et (ii) fixer ladite première extrémité audit dirigeable (2). 4. Docking system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the aerial drone (4) is arranged to start from the receiving structure (3), said aerial drone (4) being controllable for (i) take to the airship (2) the first end (51) of the securing cable (5) whose second end is fixed to said receiving structure (3) and (ii) fix said first end to said airship (2).
5. Procédé pour arrimer un dirigeable (2) à une structure réceptrice (3), mis en œuvre dans un système d’arrimage (1 ) selon l’une quelconque des revendications précédentes, comprenant les étapes de : a. commande d’au moins un drone aérien (4) emportant une première extrémité (51 ) d’un câble d’arrimage (5) dont la seconde extrémité est fixée à ladite structure réceptrice (3), selon une trajectoire le conduisant vers ledit dirigeable (2), et b. fixation de ladite première extrémité (51 ) dudit câble d’arrimage (5) à une partie dudit dirigeable (2) ledit drone aérien (4) est mécaniquement fixé sur le câble d’arrimage et est alimenté par le câble d’arrimage (5), du côté de la première extrémité (51 ) du câble d’arrimage (5). 5. A method for securing an airship (2) to a receiving structure (3), implemented in a securing system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising the steps of: a. control of at least one aerial drone (4) carrying a first end (51) of a securing cable (5), the second end of which is fixed to said receiving structure (3), along a trajectory leading it towards said airship (2), and b. fixing said first end (51) of said lashing cable (5) to a part of said dirigible (2) said aerial drone (4) is mechanically fixed on the lashing cable and is powered by the lashing cable (5 ), on the side of the first end (51) of the securing cable (5).
6. Procédé d’arrimage selon la revendication précédente, comprenant en outre une étape d’enroulement du câble d’arrimage (5) après fixation de sa première extrémité (51 ) au dirigeable (2), jusqu’à ce qu’une partie dudit dirigeable (2) rejoigne sensiblement une partie de ladite structure réceptrice (3). 6. Securing method according to the preceding claim, further comprising a step of winding the securing cable (5) after fixing its first end (51) to the airship (2), until a part said airship (2) substantially joins a part of said receiving structure (3).
7. Procédé d’arrimage selon l’une des deux revendications précédentes, dans lequel les étapes successives sont au moins contrôlées depuis le sol. 7. Securing method according to one of the two preceding claims, in which the successive steps are at least controlled from the ground.
8. Procédé d’arrimage selon l’une des trois revendications précédentes, dans lequel les étapes successives sont au moins contrôlées depuis le dirigeable. 8. Stowage method according to one of the three preceding claims, in which the successive steps are at least controlled from the airship.
9. Procédé d’arrimage selon l’une quelconque des quatre revendications précédentes, dans lequel le drone aérien (4) est programmé pour rejoindre en mode autonome le dirigeable (2) depuis la structure réceptrice (3). 9. Docking method according to any one of the four preceding claims, in which the aerial drone (4) is programmed to join the airship (2) in autonomous mode from the receiving structure (3).
10. Dirigeable (2) équipé d’un système d’arrimage (1 ) selon l’une quelconque des revendications 1 à 4. 10. Airship (2) equipped with a securing system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4.
11. Structure (3) pour recevoir un système d’arrimage selon l’une quelconque des revendications 1 à 4. 11. Structure (3) for receiving a securing system according to any one of claims 1 to 4.
PCT/FR2022/051457 2021-09-21 2022-07-21 Improved system and method for docking an airship, and airship and receiving structures including same WO2023047025A1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP22757983.6A EP4405249A1 (en) 2021-09-21 2022-07-21 Improved system and method for docking an airship, and airship and receiving structures including same

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FRFR2109900 2021-09-21
FR2109900 2021-09-21

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2023047025A1 true WO2023047025A1 (en) 2023-03-30

Family

ID=83005940

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/FR2022/051457 WO2023047025A1 (en) 2021-09-21 2022-07-21 Improved system and method for docking an airship, and airship and receiving structures including same

Country Status (2)

Country Link
EP (1) EP4405249A1 (en)
WO (1) WO2023047025A1 (en)

Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20100102164A1 (en) * 2008-10-29 2010-04-29 Rinaldo Brutoco System, method and apparatus for widespread commercialization of hydrogen as a carbon-free alternative fuel source
FR3033256A1 (en) * 2015-03-02 2016-09-09 Elistair SYSTEM FOR POWERING ELECTRIC POWER FROM A DRONE
WO2018099870A1 (en) 2016-12-01 2018-06-07 Flying Whales System and method for docking an aerostat, and aerostat and receiving structures equipped for such a purpose
FR3080839A1 (en) * 2018-05-04 2019-11-08 Airbus (S.A.S.) SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR EXTERNAL SURFACE INSPECTION

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20100102164A1 (en) * 2008-10-29 2010-04-29 Rinaldo Brutoco System, method and apparatus for widespread commercialization of hydrogen as a carbon-free alternative fuel source
FR3033256A1 (en) * 2015-03-02 2016-09-09 Elistair SYSTEM FOR POWERING ELECTRIC POWER FROM A DRONE
WO2018099870A1 (en) 2016-12-01 2018-06-07 Flying Whales System and method for docking an aerostat, and aerostat and receiving structures equipped for such a purpose
FR3080839A1 (en) * 2018-05-04 2019-11-08 Airbus (S.A.S.) SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR EXTERNAL SURFACE INSPECTION

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP4405249A1 (en) 2024-07-31

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP3548383B1 (en) System and method for docking an aerostat, and aerostat and receiving structures equipped for such a purpose
FR3068023A1 (en) ANTI-GIRATORY DEVICE AND METHOD FOR LIFTING, SUSPENDING AND DISPLACING A LOAD
EP2935003B1 (en) In-flight refuelling device for electric storage system and aircraft equipped with such a device
EP3377405B1 (en) Drone with distributed electrical storage
EP2516265B1 (en) Aircraft comprising an electric starter/generator for the or each turbojet engine and landing gear fitted with an electric motor for moving on the ground
EP1928740A1 (en) Strut for locking the engine of an aircraft
WO2008155497A1 (en) Mast for securing an engine to an aircraft wing
FR2891247A1 (en) Aircraft assembly, has engine mounting structure with rigid structure forming shell with rear closing element, and rigid structure mounted on wing element so that wing element is supported against front longeron
FR3083523A1 (en) Power supply for aircraft and corresponding aircraft
FR2989063A1 (en) DISSOCIABLE COUPLING METHOD BETWEEN A PROPULSION MODULE AND A TRANSPORT MODULE OF AN AIRCRAFT AND MODULAR PLANE OF IMPLEMENTATION
FR2887522A1 (en) Aircraft shipset, has turboshaft engine fixing mast with units to fix box forming rigid structure under box forming aerofoil unit, where fixing units have fastener with insert fitting placed inside structure and box forming aerofoil unit
EP4134306A1 (en) Drone, auxiliary device for such a drone and drone-tool assembly
EP3922551B1 (en) Device for capturing an aircraft and capture system comprising a drone provided with such a capture device
WO2023047025A1 (en) Improved system and method for docking an airship, and airship and receiving structures including same
WO2020128316A1 (en) System and method for improved securing of an aerostat to a receiving structure
EP1266826B1 (en) Aircraft engine thrust mount
EP2488409B1 (en) Dirigible airship
EP2621796B1 (en) System comprising an underwater vehicle and a base situated at the surface
FR2675114A1 (en) FLYING DEVICE FOR OVERVIEW OF A ZONE, PARTICULARLY WITH A VIEW TO ITS SURVEILLANCE.
FR2521098A1 (en) Glider for high speed military reconnaissance - has automatic trim control and release only occurring when vertical air flow component is present
FR3080607A1 (en) HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM FOR AN AIRCRAFT
FR3080608A1 (en) HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM FOR AN AIRCRAFT
FR2490381A1 (en) Display for aerial publicity banner - is held up by ascending parachute cable-towed by tractor vehicle
FR3128208A1 (en) TAKE-OFF AND CLIMB ASSISTANCE OF TRANSPORT AIRCRAFT BY TRACTION USING A CABLE
EP3740425A1 (en) Boat comprising a kite

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 22757983

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1

WWE Wipo information: entry into national phase

Ref document number: 2022757983

Country of ref document: EP

NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: DE

ENP Entry into the national phase

Ref document number: 2022757983

Country of ref document: EP

Effective date: 20240422