A surveillance aircraft recharging system based on energy collection by magnetic induction from the current flowing in a randomly selected alternating current transmission line conductor. The charging energy originates in the magnetic field surrounding the current carrying conductor and is obtained by way of a laminated magnetic circuit surrounding the current carrying conductor and disposable in both an open and transmission line receiving state and a closed and energy collecting state upon command. Latching of the magnetic structure into a condition providing physical suspension stability for the host aircraft as well as an efficient magnetic circuit are provided. Latching of the magnetic structure includes a docking aircraft kinetic energy storage sequence assisting in aircraft deceleration and also providing saved energy useful during an undocking sequence.
CLAIM OF PRIORITY
This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/617,798, filed Oct. 4, 2004. The contents of this provisional application are hereby incorporated by reference herein.
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT DOCUMENT
The present document is somewhat related to the copending and commonly assigned patent document "POWER LINE SENTRY", Ser. No. 11/169,259. The contents of this somewhat related application are hereby incorporated by reference herein.
