Patent ID: 8561936
Filing Date: 2013-10-22
Classification: B64C

Abstract:
1. An electrical propulsion system for a hang glider, the hang glider having a keel under which a pilot is suspended in a prone position while ensconced in a harness during a flight, the keel extending longitudinally along an axis of symmetry of the hang glider, the system including: a keel fitting having a locking mechanism, the locking mechanism including a locked position where the keel fitting is rigidly attached directly to the keel at a location that is substantially coinciding with a center of gravity of the hang glider without the electrical propulsion system mounted therein, and an unlocked position where the keel fitting can be detached from the keel; two elongated frame members symmetrically mounted on opposite sides of the keel fitting, each frame member having a free end that is laterally and downwardly offset with reference to the keel when the keel fitting is rigidly attached to the keel; at least one electrical motor mounted on each frame member; at least two propellers, each in driving engagement with a corresponding one of the electrical motors; and an electrical power unit adapted to be mounted on the back of the pilot and being electrically connected to the electrical motors, the electrical power unit including at least one battery and a pilot-actuated control circuit to vary the electrical power supplied to the electrical motors by the at least one battery.