Patent ID: 6345789
Filing Date: 2002-02-12
Classification: B64G,F03G,Y10T

Abstract:
A method for applying a linear propulsive force to a body comprising:(a) providing an even number of mirror-image assemblies wherein each pair of even number assemblies are interconnected and each individual assembly comprises, a mass shuttling device comprising: i) a first mass shuttling surface; ii) a return mass shuttling surface; iii) a mass engaged with the first mass shuttling surface; iv) wherein the first mass shuttling surface and the return mass shuttling surface are substantially parallel, a counterweight; an actuator element; and a tethering element interconnecting the counterweight, actuator, and mass shuttling device; and a body to be linearly propelled engaged with the even number of mirror-image rotating assemblies, b) rotating the assemblies in mirror-image fashion; c) applying an initial force in a predetermined direction to the mass of each mass shuttling device thereby imparting a linear force; d) shortening the tethering element to accelerate the velocity of the assemblies; and e) allowing the mass to engage the return mass shuttling surface thereby applying a receiving force, wherein the step of applying an initial force is timed relative to the rotational acceleration of the mass shuttling device wherein the movement of the mass toward the return mass shuttling surface coincides at least in part with the acceleration of the mass shuttling device so that the velocity of the mass relative to that of the mass shuttling device changes as the mass proceeds through said body and thereby the magnitude of the initial force is greater than the magnitude of the receiving force such that the shuttling mass device and thereby the body undergoes a net change in momentum with a linear propulsive effect.