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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Infrared radiation powered lightweight aircraft

Patent ·
OSTI ID:6887822
This patent describes a high altitude, ultralight aircraft requiring no fuel. It comprises: an aircraft having wings with broad area lower wing surfaces and a fuselage; a low speed propeller mounted on the aircraft; electric motor means mounted on the aircraft and coupled to drive the propeller; long wavelength infrared (LWIR) responsive cell means for receiving infrared energy radiated from the earth and for supplying electricity to power the motor means. The LWIR cell means being mounted on the lower surfaces of the wings and the fuselage; and the LWIR being substantially the only source of input power for the aircraft to provide a continuous source of power both during the day and at night; whereby the aircraft may have a life at elevated altitudes of several years.
Assignee:
NOV; EDB-90-101114; NOV-90-016020
Patent Number(s):
A; US 4907764
Application Number:
PPN: US 7-204019A
OSTI ID:
6887822
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English