REMOTE CONTROL SYSTEM FOR A MAGNUS EFFECT AIRCRAFT

Description

Technical field

[0001] The invention relates to the technical field of piloting systems for an aircraft of the Magnus effect type.

[0002] The invention finds its application in particular in: the production of electrical energy; the carrying of a payload, for example for telecommunications or surveillance. State of the art

[0003] The operation of a Magnus effect aircraft is known to those skilled in the art, and is notably described in the book by R. Schmehl et al. Airborne Wind Energy: Advances in Technology Development and Research », Springer, p.280 and p.304.

[0004] A system for piloting an aircraft with the Magnus effect, known from the state of the art, comprises: an aircraft, of the Magnus effect type, comprising a cylinder extending along a longitudinal axis, the cylinder being rotatable about the longitudinal axis; an electric motor, arranged on the aircraft to drive the cylinder in rotation about the longitudinal axis; a winch, comprising a rotatable drum; a connecting cable, arranged to connect the aircraft to the winch so that a movement of the aircraft in lift can be mechanically transmitted to the winch, the connecting cable being an electrical power cable arranged to electrically power the motor; an electric generator, arranged to convert a rotation of the winch drum, obtained by a mechanical transmission of the movement of the aircraft in lift, into electrical energy.

[0005] Such a state-of-the-art system is not entirely satisfactory insofar as the cylinder drive motor, on board the aircraft, must be electrically powered by the connecting cable in order to overcome a problem of autonomy. This results in constraints on the choice of a connecting cable which must be electrically conductive. However, the bindings of the electrical connecting cables are highly stressed and are therefore liable to deteriorate with risks of disintegration.

[0006] Another example of prior art is provided by document DE102013205781A1 which discloses a device for generating electrical energy using wind energy, comprising a floating component connected to a ground component by a connector which can be moved by the upward and downward movements of the floating component. Statement of the invention

[0007] The invention aims to remedy all or part of the aforementioned drawbacks. To this end, the invention relates to a system for remotely piloting an aircraft, comprising: an aircraft, of the Magnus effect type, comprising a cylinder extending along a longitudinal axis, the cylinder being rotatable about the longitudinal axis; a pair of rotating elements, arranged at a distance from the aircraft; drive means, arranged to cause a rotational movement of the pair of rotating elements; a connecting cable, arranged to connect the pair of rotating elements to the cylinder of the aircraft so that the rotational movement of the pair of rotating elements, driven by the drive means, is mechanically transmitted to the cylinder of the aircraft so as to rotate the cylinder about the longitudinal axis.

[0008] Thus, such a system according to the invention makes it possible to dispense with an electric motor on board the aircraft to drive the cylinder in rotation around the longitudinal axis (i.e. the pitch axis of the aircraft). Indeed, according to the invention, the cylinder is driven in rotation around the longitudinal axis by a mechanical transfer with the rotating element via the connecting cable, which makes it possible to reduce energy conversion losses compared to the state of the art. The choice of the connecting cable is not constrained, the connecting cable does not have to be electrically conductive, unlike the state of the art, which makes it possible to overcome the problem of potential degradation of the hoops.

[0009] The rotational drive of the cylinder around the longitudinal axis is thus offset, for example within a land or sea station where the rotating element and the means for driving the rotating element can be arranged, which makes it possible to lighten the aircraft.

[0010] Furthermore, an advantage provided by the pair of rotating elements is to control the two directions of rotation of the aircraft cylinder around the longitudinal axis (the pitch axis), which makes it possible to avoid crossing portions of the connecting cable. Controlling the length of the connecting cable between the aircraft and the rotating elements makes it possible to create a back-and-forth movement of the aircraft in lift. The pair of rotating elements comprises first and second rotating elements. The first and second rotating elements can be independent in the sense that the first and second rotating elements can have a different rotation speed (winding, unwinding, stopping).

[0011] The system according to the invention may comprise one or more of the following characteristics.

[0012] According to a characteristic of the invention, the connecting cable is wound around the cylinder of the aircraft so that the rotational movement of the rotating elements, driven by the drive means, is mechanically transmitted to the cylinder of the aircraft by friction of the connecting cable so as to rotate the cylinder around the longitudinal axis.

[0013] Thus, an advantage provided is to allow a direct mechanical transfer between the connecting cable and the aircraft cylinder to control the aircraft along the pitch axis by controlling the rotational speed of the cylinder around the longitudinal axis.

[0014] According to a characteristic of the invention, the system comprises a transmission device arranged to cooperate mechanically with the connecting cable and the cylinder of the aircraft so that the rotational movement of the rotating elements, driven by the drive means, is mechanically transmitted to the cylinder of the aircraft by the transmission device so as to rotate the cylinder around the longitudinal axis.

[0015] Thus, an advantage provided is to allow an indirect mechanical transfer between the connecting cable and the aircraft cylinder (via the transmission device) to control the aircraft along the pitch axis by controlling the rotation speed of the cylinder around the longitudinal axis.

[0016] According to a feature of the invention, the transmission device comprises a configuration in which a mechanical transmission to the cylinder of the rotational movement of the rotating element is interrupted, so that the cylinder is free to rotate around the longitudinal axis; the transmission device preferably comprising a freewheel or a clutch.

[0017] Thus, an advantage provided by this configuration is to be able to rewind the connecting cable without transmitting power to the aircraft cylinder, when the mechanical transmission is interrupted.

[0018] According to a characteristic of the invention, the aircraft, in lift, is intended to be subjected to a wind; the system comprising control means, configured to control the drive means as a function of the wind.

[0019] Thus, an advantage provided is to be able to control the torque and rotational speed of the rotating element.

[0020] According to a characteristic of the invention, the aircraft comprises guide means, arranged to guide the connecting cable between two positions relative to the cylinder defining a maximum roll angle.

[0021] Thus, an advantage provided is to facilitate the piloting of the aircraft by controlling the roll angle of the aircraft. The guide means are arranged relative to the cylinder to maintain a movement of the connecting cable along an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the cylinder between the two positions defining the maximum roll angle.

[0022] According to a characteristic of the invention, the cylinder has first and second longitudinal ends; the system comprising first and / or second attachment cables, fixed respectively to the first and / or second longitudinal ends of the cylinder, and connected respectively to first and / or second winches.

[0023] Thus, an advantage provided is to be able to control the aircraft along the roll axis by controlling the length of the first and / or second tether cables between the aircraft and the first and / or second winches respectively.

[0024] According to a characteristic of the invention which is not covered by the claims, the system comprises an anchoring zone, arranged at a distance from the aircraft, and the connecting cable is fixed to the anchoring zone.

[0025] Thus, an advantage provided by the anchoring zone is to allow the control of the torque on the cylinder independently of the balance between the aerodynamic forces and the sum of the tensions in the parts of the connecting cable.

[0026] According to a characteristic of the invention, the system comprises: an additional pair of rotating elements, arranged remotely from the aircraft; an additional connecting cable; system in which: the drive means are arranged to drive a rotational movement of the additional pair of rotating elements; the additional connecting cable is arranged to connect the additional pair of rotating elements to the cylinder of the aircraft so that the rotational movement of the additional pair of rotating elements, driven by the drive means, is mechanically transmitted to the cylinder of the aircraft so as to rotate the cylinder around the longitudinal axis.

[0027] Thus, an advantage provided is to be able to transmit the desired power to the cylinder at any time, including when rewinding the connecting cable or the additional connecting cable.

[0028] According to a characteristic of the invention: the aircraft comprises first and second cylinders extending respectively along first and second longitudinal axes, the first and second cylinders being rotatable respectively around the first and second longitudinal axes; the connecting cable is arranged to connect the pair of rotating elements to the first cylinder of the aircraft so that the rotational movement of the pair of rotating elements, driven by the drive means, is mechanically transmitted to the first cylinder of the aircraft so as to rotate the first cylinder around the first longitudinal axis;the additional connecting cable is arranged to connect the additional pair of rotating elements to the second cylinder of the aircraft so that the rotational movement of the additional pair of rotating elements, driven by the drive means, is mechanically transmitted to the second cylinder of the aircraft so as to rotate the second cylinder around the second longitudinal axis.;

[0029] Thus, one advantage is to be able to control the aircraft along the yaw axis by introducing a differential in rotational speeds between the pair of rotating elements and the additional pair of rotating elements. This results in differential drag that generates a torque around the aircraft's yaw axis. It is then possible to dispense with a tailplane device to stabilize the aircraft along the yaw axis. It is also possible to envisage dynamic flights with the possibility of maneuvering the aircraft around the yaw axis by making "8"-shaped trajectories at a given altitude to make round trips. By "dynamic flight" is meant a flight during which the aircraft is in constant motion and continuously adapts to the characteristics of the wind.

[0030] According to a characteristic of the invention, the system comprises first and second sets, each comprising: two pairs of rotating elements arranged at a distance from the aircraft, and two connecting cables; system in which: the aircraft comprises first and second cylinders extending respectively along first and second longitudinal axes, the first and second cylinders being rotatable respectively around the first and second longitudinal axes; the drive means are arranged to cause a rotational movement of the rotary elements of the first and second sets; each connecting cable of the first set is arranged to connect a pair of rotary elements of the first set to the first cylinder of the aircraft so that the rotational movement of the rotary elements of the first set, driven by the drive means, is mechanically transmitted to the first cylinder of the aircraft so as to rotate the first cylinder around the first longitudinal axis;each connecting cable of the second set is arranged to connect a pair of rotating elements of the second set to the second cylinder of the aircraft so that the rotational movement of the rotating elements of the second set, driven by the drive means, is mechanically transmitted to the second cylinder of the aircraft so as to rotate the second cylinder around the second longitudinal axis.;

[0031] Thus, an advantage provided is to be able to transmit the desired power to the corresponding cylinder at any time, including when rewinding one of the two connecting cables of the corresponding assembly.

[0032] According to a characteristic of the invention, the aircraft, in lift, has a yaw axis and is intended to be subjected to a wind; the system comprising a bent element having: a first branch, connected to the first cylinder; a second branch, connected to the second cylinder; the first and second branches forming a sweep angle adapted to stabilize the aircraft along the yaw axis depending on the wind.

[0033] According to a characteristic of the invention, the rotating element is a drum of a winch.

[0034] So, one advantage provided by a winch is being able to control both: the length of the connecting cable extending between the drum and the aircraft, the rotational speed of the drum.

[0035] According to a characteristic of the invention, the connecting cable is arranged to connect the aircraft to the rotating element so that a movement of the aircraft in lift can be mechanically transmitted to the rotating element.

[0036] According to a characteristic of the invention, the system comprises a converter, arranged to convert a rotation of the rotary element, obtained by a mechanical transmission of the movement of the aircraft in lift, into energy.

[0037] Thus, one advantage provided is to be able to recover the mechanical energy from the movement of the aircraft in lift.

[0038] According to a characteristic of the invention, the aircraft, in lift, has a yaw axis, and is intended to be subjected to a wind; the system comprising a tail device, arranged to stabilize the aircraft along the yaw axis as a function of the wind. Brief description of the drawings

[0039] Other features and advantages will become apparent in the detailed description of various embodiments of the invention, the description being accompanied by examples and references to the attached drawings. Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a system according to the invention, which is not covered by the claims, illustrating in particular the presence of an anchoring zone to which the connecting cable is fixed. Figure 2is a schematic perspective view of a system according to the invention, illustrating in particular the presence of several rotating elements produced in the form of return pulleys. Figure 3 is a schematic perspective view of a system according to the invention, illustrating in particular the presence of linear motors which indirectly drive a rotational movement of the rotating elements. Figure 4a is a schematic perspective view of a system according to the invention, illustrating in particular the presence of a transmission shaft (with stabilizer) driving a rotary element in rotation, the transmission shaft being mounted on the rotary element against the action of elastic return means. Figure 4b is a schematic perspective view of a system according to the invention, illustrating in particular a pulley connected to the rotating elements. Figure 5is a schematic perspective view of a system according to the invention, illustrating in particular a connecting cable forming a continuous loop. Figure 6 is a schematic side view of a first main embodiment of a system according to the invention. The inset of the figure 6 is an enlarged view of an embodiment of the connecting cable guiding means, making it possible to guide the connecting cable between two positions relative to the cylinder so as to define a maximum roll angle. Figure 7 is a schematic perspective view of the first main embodiment of a system according to the invention illustrated in figure 6 . Figure 8 is a schematic perspective and transparency view of an embodiment of a cylinder of an aircraft belonging to a system according to the invention. Figure 9is a schematic perspective view of a second main embodiment of a system according to the invention, illustrating in particular the presence of two cylinders. Figure 10 is a schematic perspective view of a system according to the invention, illustrating in particular an arrow angle between the two cylinders. Figure 11 is a partial schematic top view of a system according to the invention, illustrating in particular an angled element connecting the two cylinders. Figure 12 is a schematic perspective view of a third main embodiment of a system according to the invention which is not covered by the claims. Figure 13 is a schematic perspective view of a fourth main embodiment of a system according to the invention. Figure 14a is a schematic perspective view of a system according to the invention, illustrating in particular the presence of an attachment cable at one end of the cylinder. Figure 14bis a schematic perspective view of a system according to the invention, illustrating in particular the presence of two attachment cables at the ends of the cylinder. Figure 15 is a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of a system according to the invention. Figure 16 is a schematic view illustrating in particular means of converting into energy a rotation of rotating elements, obtained by a mechanical transmission of the movement of the aircraft in lift. Figure 17a is a partial schematic perspective view of a system according to the invention, illustrating a position of the tail unit during an energy production phase. Figure 17b is a partial schematic perspective view of a system according to the invention, illustrating a position of the tail unit during a rewinding phase of the connecting cable.

[0040] It should be noted that the drawings described above are schematic, and are not necessarily to scale for the sake of readability and to simplify their understanding. Detailed description of the implementation methods

[0041] Identical elements or those providing the same function will bear the same references for the different embodiments, for the sake of simplification.

[0042] An object of the invention is a system for remotely piloting an aircraft, comprising: an aircraft, of the Magnus effect type, comprising a cylinder 1 extending along a longitudinal axis Y, the cylinder 1 being rotatable about the longitudinal axis Y; a rotary element 2, arranged at a distance from the aircraft; drive means 3, arranged to cause a rotational movement of the rotary element 2; a connecting cable 4, arranged to connect the rotary element 2 to the cylinder 1 of the aircraft so that the rotational movement of the rotary element 2, driven by the drive means 3, is mechanically transmitted to the cylinder 1 of the aircraft so as to rotate the cylinder 1 about the longitudinal axis Y. Aircraft

[0043] Cylinder 1 forms a wing of the aircraft. Rotating cylinder 1 about the longitudinal axis Y makes it possible to exploit the Magnus effect to increase the lift of the aircraft. Cylinder 1 has first and second longitudinal ends 10, 11 (illustrated in figure 8 ). The aircraft advantageously comprises first and second discs 100, 110, mounted respectively at the first and second longitudinal ends 10, 11 of the cylinder 1 so as to improve the aerodynamic performance of the aircraft. The first and second discs 100, 110 are advantageously removably mounted at the first and second longitudinal ends 10, 11 of the cylinder 1 in order to disengage from the cylinder 1 to provide a landing gear function. The first and second discs 100, 110 are advantageously free to rotate relative to the cylinder 1 when the aircraft is on the ground. In flight, the first and second discs 100, 110 are integral in rotation with the cylinder 1.

[0044] The cylinder 1 advantageously has a circular cross-section, having a diameter denoted D. The cylinder 1 advantageously has a length, denoted L, along the longitudinal axis Y verifying an L / D ratio of between 6 and 12.

[0045] The cylinder 1 is advantageously filled with a gas having a density lower than the density of air, so as to create Archimedean lift. The aircraft then has a mass lower than the mass of air so that the aircraft is an aerostat. The gas may be hydrogen or helium. The gas may be under pressure, for example between 20 mbar and 50 mbar depending on the dimensions of the cylinder 1, so that the pressure of the gas inside the cylinder 1 is higher than atmospheric pressure. The cylinder 1 may be in the form of a balloon. The cylinder 1 may have an envelope made of a gas-tight textile material. The pressurized gas makes it possible to stiffen the cylinder 1. The cylinder 1 is advantageously provided with reinforcing members 12, which can be produced in the form of longitudinal rods extending along an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis Y of the cylinder 1, in order to improve the mechanical resistance of the cylinder 1.As shown in . figure 8 , the cylinder 1 may comprise internal elements 13, for example made in the form of discs, arranged to reinforce the mechanical strength of the cylinder 1. The internal elements 13 may also be arranged to form compartments inside the cylinder 1, for example for a pressurizing gas.

[0046] The aircraft advantageously comprises a dynamoelectric machine, arranged to convert mechanical energy (rotation of the cylinder 1 around the longitudinal axis Y) into electrical energy. The electrical energy generated by the dynamoelectric machine can electrically power components of the aircraft, such as sensors, on-board computers, de-icing devices, devices for maintaining the pressure of the gas inside the cylinder 1, etc. It is also possible to use other types of machines for converting the mechanical energy of the rotation of the cylinder 1 around the longitudinal axis Y (e.g. conversion into heat for de-icing).

[0047] The aircraft is advantageously equipped with means for acquiring the characteristics of the wind blowing on the cylinder 1, such as an anemometer, configured to send data representative of the characteristics of the wind V to processing / control means such as a microcontroller. The processing / control means may be on board the aircraft. The aircraft is advantageously equipped with means for acquiring parameters specific to the cylinder 1, such as an inertial unit configured to transmit to the processing / control means data representative of the orientation of the cylinder 1 relative to the wind V, the speed of the cylinder 1, the acceleration of the cylinder 1, etc.

[0048] The aircraft may comprise first and second cylinders 1, 1' extending respectively along first and second longitudinal axes Y, Y', the first and second cylinders 1, 1' being movable in rotation respectively around the first and second longitudinal axes Y, Y'.

[0049] The aircraft comprises a support structure 5, arranged to support the cylinder 1. The cylinder 1 is mounted so as to be able to rotate on the support structure 5 about the longitudinal axis Y. The support structure 5 may comprise a set of branches forming a frame for the cylinder. The support structure may comprise two longitudinal branches 50, each extending along a first axis parallel to the longitudinal axis Y of the cylinder 1. The support structure 5 may comprise two lateral branches 51, each extending along a second axis perpendicular to the first axis, and connected to the longitudinal branches 50. The cylinder 1 may be mounted so as to be able to rotate about the longitudinal axis Y on the lateral branches 51 of the support structure 5, for example by means of mechanical axes 510 and mechanical bearings 511 (notably illustrated in FIG. figure 7 ).

[0050] The aircraft, in lift, has a yaw axis Z and is intended to be subjected to a wind V. By convention, the longitudinal axis Y along which the cylinder 1 extends is the pitch axis. The yaw axis Z and the roll axis X are perpendicular to each other, and extend in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis Y (i.e. the pitch axis). When the pitch axis Y is horizontal, the yaw axis Z is vertical and the roll axis X is horizontal. The pitch axis Y, the yaw axis Z and the roll axis X are perpendicular to each other, as illustrated in figure 7 .

[0051] The system advantageously comprises an angled element 52 (illustrated in figures 10 And 11 ) presenting: a first branch 520, connected to the first cylinder 1; a second branch 521, connected to the second cylinder 1'; the first and second branches 520, 521 forming a sweep angle adapted to stabilize the aircraft along the yaw axis Z as a function of the wind V.

[0052] According to a variant, the system comprises a connecting element 53 (illustrated in figures 9 And 15 ), rectilinear, arranged to connect the first and second cylinders 1, 1'.

[0053] The aircraft may include propellers (not shown), arranged on the support structure 5 to facilitate takeoff and landing of the aircraft. Rotating element(s)

[0054] The rotating element 2 is advantageously a drum of a winch, which makes it possible to transform a rotational movement of the drum into a linear movement of the connecting cable 4 and vice versa. For example, the linear speed of the connecting cable 4 can be between 0 ms -1< and 40 ms -1< . The connecting cable 4 is advantageously wound around the drum of the winch.

[0055] According to a variant illustrated in the figure 2 , the system may comprise two pairs of rotating elements 2, each rotating element 2 being produced in the form of a return pulley. Each pair of rotating elements 2 is arranged to pinch the connecting cable 4.

[0056] According to a variant illustrated in the Figure 4a, the cylinder 1 may be provided with a transmission shaft 30 driving the cylinder 1 in rotation by pulsations, the transmission shaft 30 being mounted on the aircraft against the action of elastic return means 31, for example a spring. The connecting cable 4 connects the transmission shaft 30 to the rotating element 2. The rotating element 2 gives pulsations to the connecting cable 4 which pulls on the transmission shaft 30 and sets the cylinder 1 in rotation around the longitudinal axis Y. The aircraft is advantageously provided with a horizontal stabilizer 82 (see paragraph “Empennage device”), arranged to compensate for the torque created by the elastic return means 31. Training methods

[0057] The drive means 3 may comprise a motor, preferably electric, arranged to drive a rotational movement of the rotating element 2. The drive means 3 may drive the rotating element 2 directly or indirectly. An example of indirect drive is illustrated in figure 3where linear motors 3 pull the connecting cable 4 and thereby drive the rotating elements 2 in rotation. When the system comprises a pair of rotating elements 2 (first and second rotating elements 2) arranged at a distance from the aircraft, the drive means are arranged to drive a rotational movement of the pair of rotating elements 2. In other words, the drive means are arranged to drive the first and / or the second rotating element 2 of the pair. The first and second rotating elements may be independent in the sense that the first and second rotating elements may have a different rotational speed (winding, unwinding, stopping). In other words, it is possible to introduce a differential in rotational speeds between the first and second rotating elements 2 of the pair.

[0058] The aircraft, in lift, is intended to be subjected to a wind V. The system advantageously comprises control means, configured to control the drive means as a function of the wind V. Thus, it is possible to vary the lift of the aircraft, and therefore the altitude of the aircraft, by varying the rotation speed of the rotating element 2.

[0059] The control means can control the rotational speed of the winch drum so that the tangential speed at a point on cylinder 1 is greater than the wind speed V blowing in the vicinity of this point on cylinder 1 (apparent wind). Station

[0060] The system advantageously comprises a station, preferably land or sea, in which the rotating element(s) 2 and the drive means 3 are arranged. The station may be fixed or mobile relative to the land reference frame. The mobile station may be in the form of a vehicle such as a submarine.

[0061] According to an embodiment not illustrated, the system may comprise direction modification means (e.g. return pulleys), arranged to modify the direction of the connecting cable 4 between the station and the aircraft. Thus, it is for example possible to prevent the connecting cable 4 from coming into contact with obstacles present on the ground.

[0062] The station and the aircraft are advantageously provided with communication means, preferably wireless, so that communication can be established between the station and the aircraft. Connecting cable(s)

[0063] The connecting cable 4 may be made of a dielectric material. The connecting cable 4 advantageously has a high voltage resistance. The connecting cable 4 may be made of a polymer material, for example high-density polyethylene. The connecting cable 4 may comprise a gas conduit, arranged to supply the cylinder 1 with pressurized gas.

[0064] As illustrated in figures 1 And 12 , according to embodiments which are not covered by the claims, the system may comprise an anchoring zone ZA, arranged at a distance from the aircraft, and the connecting cable 4 is fixed to the anchoring zone ZA.

[0065] As illustrated in the Figure 4b , the connecting cable 4 can be connected to a pulley 40 so as to form a continuous loop. The drive means 3 can thus be offset relative to the rotating elements 2.

[0066] According to a variant illustrated in the Figure 5, the connecting cable 4 can be connected to a set of rotating elements 2 so as to form a continuous loop and the drive means 3 are offset relative to the rotating elements 2. One of the two rotating elements 2 illustrated in the Figure 5 can be locked in rotation so as to allow a translation of the connecting cable 4 in order to rotate the cylinder 1 around the longitudinal axis Y. Transmission of rotational motion from the rotating element to the cylinder

[0067] According to one embodiment, which is not covered by the claims, the connecting cable 4 is wound around the cylinder 1 of the aircraft so that the rotational movement of the rotating element 2, driven by the drive means 3, is mechanically transmitted to the cylinder 1 of the aircraft by friction of the connecting cable 4 so as to rotate the cylinder 1 around the longitudinal axis Y.

[0068] According to the invention, the system comprises a pair of rotating elements 2 arranged at a distance from the aircraft, the connecting cable 4 being wound around the cylinder 1 of the aircraft so that the rotational movement of the pair of rotating elements 2, driven by the drive means 3, is mechanically transmitted to the cylinder 1 of the aircraft by friction of the connecting cable 4 so as to rotate the cylinder 1 around the longitudinal axis Y.

[0069] According to an alternative embodiment, the system comprises a transmission device 6 arranged to cooperate mechanically with the connecting cable 4 and the cylinder 1 of the aircraft so that the rotational movement of the rotary element 2, driven by the drive means 3, is mechanically transmitted to the cylinder 1 of the aircraft by the transmission device 6 so as to rotate the cylinder 1 about the longitudinal axis Y. The transmission device 6 advantageously comprises a configuration in which a mechanical transmission to the cylinder 1 of the rotational movement of the rotary element 2 is interrupted, so that the cylinder 1 is free to rotate about the longitudinal axis Y. The transmission device 6 preferably comprises a freewheel or a clutch. The transmission device 6 is advantageously mounted at the first and second longitudinal ends 10, 11 of the cylinder 1, as illustrated in figure 9 .

[0070] When the system comprises a pair of rotating elements 2 arranged at a distance from the aircraft, the transmission device 6 is arranged to cooperate mechanically with the connecting cable 4 and the cylinder 1 of the aircraft so that the rotational movement of the pair of rotating elements 2, driven by the drive means 3, is mechanically transmitted to the cylinder 1 of the aircraft by the transmission device 6 so as to rotate the cylinder 1 about the longitudinal axis Y. The transmission device 6 advantageously comprises a configuration in which a mechanical transmission to the cylinder 1 of the rotational movement of the pair of rotating elements 2 is interrupted, so that the cylinder 1 is free to rotate about the longitudinal axis Y. Guidance means

[0071] The aircraft advantageously comprises guide means, arranged to guide the connecting cable 4 between two positions relative to the cylinder 1 defining a maximum roll angle. The guide means advantageously comprise rings 7, mounted on the support structure 5 of the aircraft, and adapted to receive the connecting cable 4. The guide means advantageously comprise a tube 70, arranged on the support structure 5 of the aircraft. Two rings 7, each adapted to receive the connecting cable 4, are advantageously slidably mounted on the tube 70, for example using a slider 700, so as to define the maximum roll angle. As a variant, the guide means may be rolling elements (e.g. pulleys, rollers) to minimize friction with the connecting cable 4.

[0072] The guide means are advantageously arranged to guide the connecting cable 4 to the surface S of the cylinder 1. The system is advantageously configured to control the winding angle of the connecting cable 4 to the surface S of the cylinder 1 (and therefore the transmitted power) as a function of the tensions of the connecting cable 4 on either side of the cylinder 1, for example using the capstan formula (also called the Eytelwein formula) known to those skilled in the art. Tether cable(s)

[0073] As a variant of the guide means, the system may comprise first and / or second attachment cables CA, fixed respectively to the first and / or second longitudinal ends 10, 11 of the cylinder 1, and connected respectively to first and / or second winches 2'. As illustrated in Figure 14a , the system comprises a tether cable CA fixed to a longitudinal end 10, 11 of the cylinder 1. As illustrated in the Figure 14b, the system comprises two CA attachment cables each fixed to a separate longitudinal end 10, 11 of the cylinder 1.

[0074] As illustrated in the figure 10 , the system may include a tether cable CA attached to the elbow member 52 and connected to a winch 2' to control the pitch angle of the aircraft. Embodiments with a cylinder

[0075] According to a first embodiment, notably illustrated in figures 6 And 7 , the system may comprise a pair of rotating elements 2, arranged at a distance from the aircraft; system in which: the drive means 3 are arranged to drive a rotational movement of the pair of rotating elements 2; the connecting cable 4 is arranged to connect the pair of rotating elements 2 to the cylinder 1 of the aircraft so that the rotational movement of the pair of rotating elements 2, driven by the drive means 3, is mechanically transmitted to the cylinder 1 of the aircraft so as to rotate the cylinder 1 around the longitudinal axis Y.

[0076] According to a second embodiment not illustrated, the system may comprise: an additional pair of rotating elements 2, arranged at a distance from the aircraft; an additional connecting cable 4; system in which: the drive means 3 are arranged to drive a rotational movement of the additional pair of rotating elements 2; the additional connecting cable 4 is arranged to connect the additional pair of rotating elements 2 to the cylinder 1 of the aircraft so that the rotational movement of the additional pair of rotating elements 2, driven by the drive means 3, is mechanically transmitted to the cylinder 1 of the aircraft so as to rotate the cylinder 1 around the longitudinal axis Y. Embodiments with two cylinders

[0077] The aircraft may comprise first and second cylinders 1, 1' extending respectively along first and second longitudinal axes Y, Y', the first and second cylinders 1, 1' being movable in rotation respectively around the first and second longitudinal axes Y, Y'.

[0078] According to a first embodiment, notably illustrated in figures 10 And 15, the system may include: a pair of rotating elements 2 and an additional pair of rotating elements 2, arranged at a distance from the aircraft; a connecting cable 4 and an additional connecting cable 4.

[0079] The drive means 3 are arranged to drive a rotational movement of the pair of rotating elements 2 and the additional pair of rotating elements 2.

[0080] The connecting cable 4 is arranged to connect the pair of rotating elements 2 to the first cylinder 1 of the aircraft so that the rotational movement of the pair of rotating elements 2, driven by the drive means 3, is mechanically transmitted to the first cylinder 1 of the aircraft so as to rotate the first cylinder 1 around the first longitudinal axis Y.

[0081] The additional connecting cable 4 is arranged to connect the additional pair of rotating elements 2 to the second cylinder 1' of the aircraft so that the rotational movement of the additional pair of rotating elements 2, driven by the drive means 3, is mechanically transmitted to the second cylinder 1' of the aircraft so as to rotate the second cylinder 1' around the second longitudinal axis Y'.

[0082] According to a second embodiment, notably illustrated in figures 9 And 13 , the system may comprise first and second sets, each comprising: two pairs of rotating elements 2 arranged at a distance from the aircraft, and two connecting cables 4; system in which: the drive means 3 are arranged to drive a rotational movement of the rotary elements 2 of the first and second sets; each connecting cable 4 of the first set is arranged to connect a pair of rotary elements 2 of the first set to the first cylinder 1 of the aircraft so that the rotational movement of the rotary elements 2 of the first set, driven by the drive means 3, is mechanically transmitted to the first cylinder 1 of the aircraft so as to rotate the first cylinder 1 around the first longitudinal axis Y;each connecting cable 4 of the second set is arranged to connect a pair of rotating elements 2 of the second set to the second cylinder 1' of the aircraft so that the rotational movement of the rotating elements 2 of the second set, driven by the drive means 3, is mechanically transmitted to the second cylinder 1' of the aircraft so as to rotate the second cylinder 1' around the second longitudinal axis Y'.;

[0083] It is possible to envisage the presence of a number of cylinders 1, 1' greater than 2, each cylinder 1, 1' being connected to at least one pair of rotating elements 2. Tailplane device

[0084] The aircraft, in lift, has a yaw axis Z, and is intended to be subjected to a wind V. The system advantageously comprises a tail device 8, arranged to stabilize the aircraft along the yaw axis Z as a function of the wind V. The tail device 8 is mounted on the support structure 5 of the aircraft. More precisely, the tail device 8 can be mounted mobile in rotation on a longitudinal branch 50 of the support structure 5, around the first axis of the longitudinal branch 50.

[0085] The empennage device 8 advantageously comprises an arm 80 extending along a longitudinal axis. The arm 80 has first and second opposite ends. The arm 80 is pivotally mounted on said longitudinal branch 50 of the support structure 5, around the first axis of the longitudinal branch 50, for example using an articulation mechanism 800. The empennage device 8 advantageously comprises a first stabilizer 81, called vertical, extending in a first direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the arm 80. When the longitudinal axis of the arm 80 is horizontal, the first direction is vertical. The first stabilizer 81 is fixed on the first end of the arm 80. The empennage device 8 advantageously comprises a second stabilizer 82, called horizontal, extending in a second direction, perpendicular to the first direction and to the longitudinal axis of the arm 80.When the longitudinal axis of the arm 80 is horizontal, the second direction is horizontal. The second stabilizer 82 is fixed on the first end of the arm 80. The second stabilizer 82 allows passive alignment of the empennage device 8 with the apparent wind V to maximize the stability effect of the first stabilizer 81.

[0086] The first stabilizer 81 advantageously comprises two independent control surfaces 810, mounted to pivot around the first direction in which the first stabilizer 81 extends. As illustrated in Figures 17a and 17b , the pivot angle of the two control surfaces 810 relative to the first direction of the first stabilizer 81 is adapted to the wind direction V so as to generate a kinetic moment around the yaw axis Z. The position of the longitudinal axis of the arm 80 is parallel to the wind direction V.

[0087] As illustrated in figures 6 And 7, the empennage device 8 advantageously comprises a sensor module 83, mounted at the second end of the arm 80. By way of non-limiting example, the sensor module 83 can be adapted to measure the direction and speed of the wind V, the position, altitude, speed and acceleration of the aircraft. As a variant, as illustrated in figure 9 , the sensor module 83 can be mounted on the support structure 5 of the aircraft. Application to energy conversion

[0088] The connecting cable 4 is advantageously arranged to connect the aircraft to the rotating element 2 so that a movement of the aircraft in lift can be transmitted mechanically to the rotating element 2.

[0089] The system advantageously comprises a converter, arranged to convert a rotation of the rotating element 2, obtained by a mechanical transmission of the movement of the aircraft in lift, into energy.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the converter may comprise an electrical generator, arranged to convert a rotation of the rotating element into electrical energy. When the rotating element 2 is a drum of a winch, the drive means 3 consume energy to wind the connecting cable 4 while the movements of the aircraft in lift make it possible to unwind the connecting cable 4 and recover electrical energy. The electrical generator, for example arranged in the station, may be electrically connected to an electrical network RE (illustrated in figure 9 ) or an energy storage system via electrical interconnection means 9. The electrical network RE can supply the station, in particular the drive means 3, via the electrical interconnection means 9.

[0091] According to an embodiment illustrated in the figure 16, each rotating element 2 is connected to a mechanical transmission TM. The mechanical transmission TM has: a first position, in which the mechanical transmission TM is connected to a hydraulic (or pneumatic) generator G such as a pump; or a second position, in which the mechanical transmission TM is connected to a hydraulic (or pneumatic) motor M.

[0092] The hydraulic / pneumatic G generators belong to a hydraulic / pneumatic circuit 90 comprising a low pressure tank 900 and a high pressure tank 901. The hydraulic / pneumatic G generators pump the fluid (e.g. oil or compressed air) of the hydraulic / pneumatic circuit 90 from the low pressure tank 900 (e.g. atmosphere for a pneumatic circuit 90) to the high pressure tank 901. The energy is therefore stored by the pressure of the fluid in the high pressure tank 901.

[0093] When the connecting cable 4 needs to be rewound, the mechanical transmission TM switches from the first position to the second position. Energy is consumed by the flow of fluid from the high-pressure reservoir 901 to the low-pressure reservoir 900.

[0094] To produce electricity, the hydraulic / pneumatic circuit 90 is connected to an additional hydraulic / pneumatic motor M' which turns an electric generator G'. Electricity production can therefore be smoothed via this temporary storage system (of the order of a few hours), or electricity production can be adapted according to the needs of electricity consumption demand.

Claims

1. A remote control system for an aircraft, comprising: - an aircraft, of the Magnus-effect type, comprising a cylinder (1) extending along a longitudinal axis (Y), the cylinder (1) being able to rotate about the longitudinal axis (Y); - a pair of rotatable elements (2), arranged at a distance from the aircraft; - drive means (3), arranged to drive a rotational movement of the pair of rotatable elements (2); - a connection cable (4), arranged to connect the pair of rotatable elements (2) to the cylinder (1) of the aircraft so that the rotational movement of the pair of rotatable elements (2), driven by the drive means (3), is mechanically transmitted to the cylinder (1) of the aircraft so as to set the cylinder (1) into rotation about the longitudinal axis (Y).

2. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the connection cable (4) is wound around the cylinder (1) of the aircraft so that the rotational movement of the pair of rotatable elements (2), driven by the drive means (3), is mechanically transmitted to the cylinder (1) of the aircraft by friction on the connection cable (4) so as to set the cylinder (1) into rotation about the longitudinal axis (Y).

3. The system as claimed in claim 1, comprising a transmission device (6) arranged to mechanically cooperate with the connection cable (4) and the cylinder (1) of the aircraft so that the rotational movement of the pair of rotatable elements (2), driven by the drive means (3), is mechanically transmitted to the cylinder (1) of the aircraft by the transmission device (6) so as to set the cylinder (1) into rotation about the longitudinal axis (Y).

4. The system as claimed in claim 3, wherein the transmission device (6) comprises a configuration in which a mechanical transmission of the rotational movement of the pair of rotatable elements (2) to the cylinder (1) is interrupted, so that the cylinder (1) is free to rotate about the longitudinal axis (Y), with the transmission device (6) preferably comprising a freewheel or a clutch.

5. The system as claimed in any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the aircraft, in lift, is intended to be subjected to wind (V), with the system comprising control means configured to control the drive means (3) as a function of the wind (V).

6. The system as claimed in any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the aircraft comprises guide means (7), arranged to guide the connection cable (4) between two positions relative to the cylinder (1) defining a maximum roll angle.

7. The system as claimed in any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the cylinder (1) has first and second longitudinal ends (10, 11), the system comprising first and / or second attachment cables (CA), respectively fixed to the first and / or second longitudinal ends (10, 11) of the cylinder (1), and respectively connected to first and / or second winches (2').

8. The system as claimed in any of claims 1 to 7, comprising: - an additional pair of rotatable elements (2), arranged at a distance from the aircraft; - an additional connection cable (4); in which system: - the drive means (3) are arranged to drive a rotational movement of the additional pair of rotatable elements (2); - the additional connection cable (4) is arranged to connect the additional pair of rotatable elements (2) to the cylinder (1) of the aircraft so that the rotational movement of the additional pair of rotatable elements (2), driven by the drive means (3), is mechanically transmitted to the cylinder (1) of the aircraft so as to set the cylinder (1) into rotation about the longitudinal axis (Y).

9. The system as claimed in claim 8, wherein: - the aircraft comprises first and second cylinders (1, 1') respectively extending along first and second longitudinal axes (Y, Y'), with the first and second cylinders (1, 1') being able to rotate about the first and second longitudinal axes (Y, Y'), respectively; - the connection cable (4) is arranged to connect the pair of rotatable elements (2) to the first cylinder (1) of the aircraft so that the rotational movement of the pair of rotatable elements (2), driven by the drive means (3), is mechanically transmitted to the first cylinder (1) of the aircraft so as to set the first cylinder (1) into rotation about the first longitudinal axis (Y); - the additional connection cable (4) is arranged to connect the additional pair of rotatable elements (2) to the second cylinder (1') of the aircraft so that the rotational movement of the additional pair of rotatable elements (2), driven by the drive means (3), is mechanically transmitted to the second cylinder (1') of the aircraft so as to set the second cylinder (1') into rotation about the second longitudinal axis (Y').

10. The system as claimed in any of claims 1 to 7, comprising first and second assemblies, each comprising: - two pairs of rotatable elements (2) arranged at a distance from the aircraft; and - two connection cables (4); in which system: - the aircraft comprises first and second cylinders (1, 1') respectively extending along first and second longitudinal axes (Y, Y'), with the first and second cylinders (1, 1') being able to rotate about the first and second longitudinal axes (Y, Y'), respectively; - the drive means (3) are arranged to drive a rotational movement of the rotatable elements (2) of the first and second assemblies; - each connection cable (4) of the first assembly is arranged to connect a pair of rotatable elements (2) of the first assembly to the first cylinder (1) of the aircraft so that the rotational movement of the rotatable elements (2) of the first assembly, driven by the drive means (3), is mechanically transmitted to the first cylinder (1) of the aircraft so as to set the first cylinder (1) into rotation about the first longitudinal axis (Y); - each connection cable (4) of the second assembly is arranged to connect a pair of rotatable elements (2) of the second assembly to the second cylinder (1') of the aircraft so that the rotational movement of the rotatable elements (2) of the second assembly, driven by the drive means (3), is mechanically transmitted to the second cylinder (1') of the aircraft so as to set the second cylinder (1') into rotation about the second longitudinal axis (Y').

11. The system as claimed in claim 9 or 10, wherein the aircraft, in lift, has a yaw axis (Z) and is intended to be subjected to wind (V), the system comprising an elbow element (52) having: - a first branch (520), connected to the first cylinder (1); - a second branch (521), connected to the second cylinder (1'); with the first and second branches (520, 521) forming a sweep angle adapted to stabilize the aircraft along the yaw axis (Z) as a function of the wind (V).

12. The system as claimed in any of claims 1 to 11, wherein the rotatable element (2) is a drum of a winch.

13. The system as claimed in any of claims 1 to 12, wherein the connection cable (4) is arranged to connect the aircraft to the pair of rotatable elements (2) so that a lift movement of the aircraft can be mechanically transmitted to the rotatable elements (2).

14. The system as claimed in claim 13, comprising a converter, arranged to convert a rotation of the pair of rotatable elements (2), obtained by a mechanical transmission (TM) of the lift movement of the aircraft, into energy.

15. The system as claimed in any of claims 1 to 14, wherein the aircraft, in lift, has a yaw axis (Z), and is intended to be subjected to wind (V), with the system comprising a tail device (8), arranged to stabilize the aircraft along the yaw axis (Z) as a function of the wind (V).