Patent ID: 7278607
Filing Date: 2007-10-09
Classification: B64B,B64D,Y02T

Abstract:
1. A solar-powered aircraft, comprising: a) a solar cell disposed on an exterior surface of an aircraft, b) at least one water storage tank, disposed within a body of the aircraft, c) an electrolyzing unit, wherein the electrolyzing unit is connected to electrolyze water from the water storage tank, and wherein the electrolyzing unit receives electrical power from the solar cell, d) at least one hydrogen storage tank, the hydrogen storage tank being connected to receive hydrogen produced by the electrolyzing unit, e) a fuel cell, the fuel cell being connected to receive hydrogen from the hydrogen storage tank so as to produce electric power, and f) an electric motor, the motor being connected to receive electric power from the fuel cell, the motor being connected to a propeller for driving the aircraft, wherein the hydrogen storage tank comprises a gas bag located in a vented chamber, wherein filling of the bag with hydrogen causes the bag to expand and displace air from the chamber through a vent.