US 2021/0273471 A1 · APPARATUS HAVING ELECTRIC-FIELD ACTUATED GENERATOR FOR POWERING ELECTRICAL LOAD WITHIN VICINITY OF POWERLINES

An apparatus in which electric power is generated from a differential in electric field strength within a vicinity of powerlines, the apparatus comprising:

(a) a first electrode having at least two overall substantial dimensions, a first of which is at least 80% of at least one of an overall heightwise extent, an overall lengthwise extent, and an overall widthwise extent of the apparatus, and a second of which is at least 80% of at least one of the overall heightwise extent, the overall lengthwise extent, and the overall widthwise extent of the apparatus;
and
(b) a second electrode having at least two overall substantial dimensions, a first of which is at least 80% of at least one of the overall heightwise extent, the overall lengthwise extent, and the overall widthwise extent of the apparatus, and a second of which is at least 80% of at least one of the overall heightwise extent, the overall lengthwise extent, and the overall widthwise extent of the apparatus;
(c) wherein the first and second electrodes are separated and electrically insulated from each other for enabling a differential in voltage at the first and second electrodes resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced at the first and second electrodes when within the vicinity of the powerlines;
and
(d) further comprising electrical components electrically connected with the first and second electrodes that establish an electric circuit, with the differential in voltage between the first and second electrodes causing a current to flow through the circuit for powering an electrical load of the electric circuit.

3 more elements

An apparatus in which electric power is generated for an electrical load from a differential in electric field strength within a vicinity of powerlines, the apparatus comprising:

(a) a plurality of electrodes comprising first, second, and third electrodes separated and electrically insulated from one another for enabling differentials in voltage at the first, second, and third electrodes resulting from differentials in electric field strength experienced at the first, second, and third electrodes when within the vicinity of the powerlines;
(b) electrical components electrically connected with the first, second, and third electrodes, at least one or more of the electrical components being configurable to establish each of
(i) a first electric circuit, wherein the differential in voltage between the first electrode and the second electrode causes a current to flow through the first electric circuit for powering an electrical load;
(ii) a second electric circuit, wherein the differential in voltage between the first electrode and the third electrode causes a current to flow through the second electric circuit for powering the electrical load;
and
(iii) a third electric circuit, wherein the differential in voltage between the second electrode and the third electrode causes a current to flow through the third electric circuit for powering the electrical load;
and
(c) a control assembly comprising
(i) one or more voltage-detector components configured to detect relative voltages of the first, second, and third electrodes;
and
(ii) a processor enabled to configure—based on the detected voltages and based on voltage and electric current specifications for powering the electrical load—one or more of the electrical components to establish one of the first electric circuit, the second electric circuit, and the third electric circuit for powering the electrical load.

8 more elements

An apparatus in which electric power is generated for an electrical load from one or more differentials in electric field strength in a vicinity of powerlines, the apparatus comprising:

(a) a plurality of separated electrodes;
(b) electrical components electrically connected with the plurality of electrodes, at least one or more of the electrical components being configurable to establish each of a plurality of different electric circuits, each of the different electric circuits comprising a set of two or more mutually exclusive subsets of the plurality of electrodes, the electrodes in each subset that have more than one electrode being electrically connected with each other for avoiding a voltage differential therebetween, and the one or more electrodes of each subset being electrically insulated from each electrode of any other subset of the set for enabling one or more voltage differentials between the subsets of the set resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced when the apparatus is within the vicinity of the powerlines, wherein the subsets of the set are interconnected such that the one or more voltage differentials between the subsets causes a current to flow through the electric circuit of the set for powering the electrical load;
and
(c) a control assembly comprising
(i) one or more voltage-detector components configured to detect voltage differentials of the sets;
and
(ii) a processor enabled to process the detected voltage differentials and—based thereon and based on voltage and electric current specifications for powering the electrical load—configure one or more of the electrical components in order to establish one of the plurality of different electric circuits for powering the electrical load.

4 more elements

A method for generating electric power for an electrical load from a differential in electric field strength within a vicinity of powerlines, the method comprising the steps of:

(a) positioning first, second, and third electrodes within the vicinity of powerlines such that the first, second, and third electrodes experience differentials in electric field strength with resulting differentials in voltage at two or more of the first, second, and third electrodes;
(b) detecting relative voltages at the first, second, and third electrodes;
and
(c) establishing a particular one of a plurality of mutually exclusive electric circuits each comprising a pair of electrodes, the plurality of mutually exclusive electric circuits comprising
(i) a first electric circuit, in which the first electrode and the second electrode are separated and electrically insulated from each other for enabling a differential in voltage at the first and second electrodes resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced at the first and second electrodes when within the vicinity of the powerlines, the differential in voltage between the first electrode and the second electrode causing a current to flow through the first electric circuit for powering the electrical load;
(ii) a second electric circuit, in which the first electrode and the third electrode are separated and electrically insulated from each other for enabling a differential in voltage at the first and third electrodes resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced at the first and third electrodes when within the vicinity of the powerlines, the differential in voltage between the first electrode and the third electrode causing a current to flow through the second electric circuit for powering the electrical load;
and
(iii) a third electric circuit, in which the second electrode and the third electrode are separated and electrically insulated from each other for enabling a differential in voltage at the second and third electrodes resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced at the second and third electrodes when within the vicinity of the powerlines, the differential in voltage between the second electrode and the third electrode causing a current to flow through the third electric circuit for powering the electrical load;
(d) wherein the particular one of the plurality of mutually exclusive electric circuits is established as a function of the detected voltages and based on voltage and electric current specifications for powering the electrical load.

6 more elements

A method for generating electric power for an electrical load from one or more differentials in electric field strength within a vicinity of powerlines, the method comprising the steps of:

(a) positioning a plurality of separated electrodes within the vicinity of powerlines such that the electrodes experience differentials in electric field strength with resulting differentials in voltage at the electrodes;
and
(b) establishing a particular one of a plurality of different electric circuits, each of the different electric circuits comprising a set of two or more mutually exclusive subsets of the plurality of electrodes, the electrodes in each subset that have more than one electrode being electrically connected with each other for avoiding any voltage differential therebetween, and the one or more electrodes of each subset being electrically insulated from each electrode of any other subset of the set for enabling one or more voltage differentials between the subsets of the set, wherein the subsets are interconnected in each electric circuit such that the one or more voltage differentials therebetween causes a current to flow through the electric circuit for powering the electrical load;
and
(c) further comprising detecting voltage differentials of the sets, wherein the particular one of the plurality of different electric circuits is established as a function of the detected voltage differentials and electric current specifications for powering the electrical load.

2 more elements

A device, comprising:

(a) one or more electrical components;
and
(b) a power supply unit;
(c) wherein the device defines a bay configured to removably receive the power supply unit for electrical coupling with the device, by which electrical coupling electric current is provided to the device by the power supply unit;
(d) wherein the power supply unit is configured to generate electric power from a differential in electric field strength when the power supply unit is received in the bay, electrically coupled with the device, and within a vicinity of powerlines;
and
(e) wherein the power supply unit comprises
(i) a first electrode having at least two overall substantial dimensions, a first of which is at least 80% of at least one of an overall heightwise extent, an overall lengthwise extent, and an overall widthwise extent of the device, and a second of which is at least 80% of at least one of the overall heightwise extent, the overall lengthwise extent, and the overall widthwise extent of the device;
and
(ii) a second electrode having at least two overall substantial dimensions, a first of which is at least 80% of at least one of the overall heightwise extent, the overall lengthwise extent, and the overall widthwise extent of the device, and a second of which is at least 80% of at least one of the overall heightwise extent, the overall lengthwise extent, and the overall widthwise extent of the device;
(iii) wherein the first and second electrodes are separated and electrically insulated from each other for enabling a differential in voltage at the first and second electrodes resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced at the first and second electrodes when within the vicinity of the powerlines;
and
(f) further comprising electrical components electrically connected with the first and second electrodes that establish an electric circuit with one or more electrical components of the device when the power supply unit is received in the bay and electrically coupled with the device, wherein the differential in voltage between the first and second electrodes causes electric current to flow through the electric circuit for powering the device.

10 more elements

A device, comprising:

(a) one or more electrical components;
and
(b) a power supply unit;
(c) wherein the device defines a bay configured to removably receive the power supply unit for electrical coupling with the device, by which electrical coupling electric current is provided to the device by the power supply unit;
(d) wherein the power supply unit is configured to generate electric power from a differential in electric field strength when the power supply unit is received in the bay, electrically coupled with the device, and within a vicinity of powerlines;
and
(e) wherein the power supply unit comprises a plurality of electrodes comprising first, second, and third electrodes separated and electrically insulated from one another for enabling differentials in voltage at the first, second, and third electrodes resulting from differentials in electric field strength experienced at the first, second, and third electrodes when within the vicinity of the powerlines;
and
(f) wherein the device further comprises, when the power supply unit is electrically coupled with the device,
(i) electrical components electrically connected with the first, second, and third electrodes, at least one or more of the electrical components being configurable to establish each of
(A) a first electric circuit, wherein the differential in voltage between the first electrode and the second electrode causes a current to flow through the first electric circuit for powering the device;
(B) a second electric circuit, wherein the differential in voltage between the first electrode and the third electrode causes a current to flow through the second electric circuit for powering the device;
and
(C) a third electric circuit, wherein the differential in voltage between the second electrode and the third electrode causes a current to flow through the third electric circuit for powering the device;
(ii) one or more sensors configured to sense data regarding voltage of the first, second, and third electrodes;
and
(iii) a processor configured to process the sensed data and, based thereon and based on voltage and electric current specifications for powering the device, configure one or more of the electrical components to establish one of the first electric circuit, the second electric circuit, and the third electric circuit for powering the device.

14 more elements

A device, comprising:

(a) one or more electrical components;
and
(b) a power supply unit;
(c) wherein the device defines a bay configured to removably receive the power supply unit for electrical coupling with the device, by which electrical coupling electric current is provided to the device by the power supply unit;
(d) wherein the power supply unit is configured to generate electric power from a differential in electric field strength when the power supply unit is received in the bay, electrically coupled with the device, and within a vicinity of powerlines;
(e) wherein the power supply unit comprises a plurality of separated electrodes;
and
(f) wherein the device further comprises, when the power supply unit is electrically coupled with the device,
(i) electrical components electrically connected with the plurality of electrodes, at least one or more of the electrical components being configurable to establish each of a plurality of different electric circuits, each of the different electric circuits comprising a set of two or more mutually exclusive subsets of the plurality of electrodes, the electrodes in each subset that have more than one electrode being electrically connected with each other for avoiding a voltage differential therebetween, and the one or more electrodes of each subset being electrically insulated from each electrode of any other subset of the set for enabling one or more voltage differentials between the subsets of the set resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced when the device is within the vicinity of the powerlines, wherein the subsets of the set are interconnected such that the one or more voltage differentials between the subsets causes a current to flow through the electric circuit of the set for powering the device;
(ii) one or more sensors configured to sense data regarding voltage differentials of the sets;
and
(iii) a processor configured to process the sensed data and, based thereon and based on voltage and electric current specifications for powering the device, configure one or more of the electrical components to establish one of the plurality of different electric circuits for powering the device.

9 more elements

A method for powering a device, comprising the steps of:

(a) providing a power supply unit adapted to generate electric power from a differential in electric field strength within a vicinity of powerlines;
(b) electrically coupling the power supply unit with the device, comprising inserting the power supply unit into a bay of the device, whereby electrical components electrically connected with the first, second, and third electrodes are configurable to establish, through the electrical coupling, a particular one of a plurality of mutually exclusive electric circuits each comprising a pair of electrodes, the plurality of mutually exclusive electric circuits comprising
(i) a first electric circuit, in which the first electrode and the second electrode are separated and electrically insulated from each other for enabling a differential in voltage at the first and second electrodes resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced at the first and second electrodes when within the vicinity of the powerlines, the differential in voltage between the first electrode and the second electrode causing a current to flow through the first electric circuit for powering the device;
(ii) a second electric circuit, in which the first electrode and the third electrode are separated and electrically insulated from each other for enabling a differential in voltage at the first and third electrodes resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced at the first and third electrodes when within the vicinity of the powerlines, the differential in voltage between the first electrode and the third electrode causing a current to flow through the second electric circuit for powering the device;
and
(iii) a third electric circuit, in which the second electrode and the third electrode are separated and electrically insulated from each other for enabling a differential in voltage at the second and third electrodes resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced at the second and third electrodes when within the vicinity of the powerlines, the differential in voltage between the second electrode and the third electrode causing a current to flow through the third electric circuit for powering the device;
and
(c) locating the device within the vicinity of powerlines whereby a differential in voltage exists between at least two of the first, second, and third electrodes;
(d) sensing data regarding voltage at the first, second, and third electrodes;
and
(e) based on the sensed voltage data and based on voltage and electric current specifications for powering the electrical load, establishing a particular one of a plurality of mutually exclusive electric circuits whereby electric current flows therethrough for powering the device.

8 more elements

A device, comprising:

(a) an external enclosure including one or more external walls;
and
(b) a power supply configured to generate electric power from a differential in electric field strength when the device is within a vicinity of powerlines, the power supply comprising first, second, and third electrodes;
(c) wherein the one or more external walls comprise the first, second, and third electrodes;
and
(d) wherein the first, second, and third electrodes are separated and electrically insulated from each other for enabling
(i) a differential in voltage at the first and second electrodes resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced at the first and second electrodes when the device is within the vicinity of the powerlines;
(ii) a differential in voltage at the first and third electrodes resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced at the first and third electrodes when the device is within the vicinity of the powerlines;
and
(iii) a differential in voltage at the second and third electrodes resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced at the second and third electrodes when the device is within the vicinity of the powerlines;
and
further comprising
(e) electrical components electrically connected with the first, second, and third electrodes and configurable to establish, in the alternative, each of
(i) a first electric circuit, wherein a differential in voltage between the first and second electrodes causes electric current to flow through the electric circuit for powering the device;
(ii) a second electric circuit, wherein a differential in voltage between the first and third electrodes causes electric current to flow through the electric circuit for powering the device;
and
(iii) a third electric circuit, wherein a differential in voltage between the second and third electrodes causes electric current to flow through the electric circuit for powering the device;
(f) one or more voltage-detector components configured to detect voltages of the first, second, and third electrodes;
and
(g) a controller configured to process the detected voltages data and to configure one or more of the electrical components based thereon and based on voltage and electric current specifications for powering the device, in order to establish one of the first electric circuit, the second electric circuit, and the third electric circuit for powering the device.

17 more elements

A method for powering a device from one or more differentials in electric field strength within a vicinity of powerlines, comprising the steps of:

(a) providing a device comprising
(i) an external enclosure including one or more external walls;
and
(ii) a power supply configured to generate electric power from a differential in electric field strength when the device is within a vicinity of powerlines, the power supply comprising first and second electrodes;
(iii) wherein the one or more external walls comprise the first and second electrodes;
and
(iv) wherein the first and second electrodes are separated and electrically insulated from each other for enabling a differential in voltage at the first and second electrodes resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced at the first and second electrodes when the device is within the vicinity of the powerlines;
and
(v) further comprising electrical components electrically connected with the first and second electrodes that establish an electric circuit, wherein a differential in voltage between the first and second electrodes causes electric current to flow through the electric circuit for powering the device;
and
(b) positioning the device within the vicinity of powerlines such that a differential in electric field strength experienced at the first and second electrodes creates a differential in voltage between the first and second electrodes and causes electric current to flow through the electric circuit and powers the device.

8 more elements

A method for powering a device from one or more differentials in electric field strength within a vicinity of powerlines, comprising the steps of:

(a) providing a device comprising
(i) an external enclosure including one or more external walls;
and
(ii) a power supply configured to generate electric power from a differential in electric field strength when the device is within a vicinity of powerlines, the power supply comprising first, second, and third electrodes that are separated and electrically insulated from each other for enabling
(A) a differential in voltage at the first and second electrodes resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced at the first and second electrodes when the device is within the vicinity of the powerlines;
(B) a differential in voltage at the first and third electrodes resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced at the first and third electrodes when the device is within the vicinity of the powerlines;
and
(C) a differential in voltage at the second and third electrodes resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced at the second and third electrodes when the device is within the vicinity of the powerlines;
and
(iii) electrical components electrically connected with the first, second, and third electrodes and configurable to establish, in the alternative, each of
(A) a first electric circuit, wherein a differential in voltage between the first and second electrodes causes electric current to flow through the electric circuit for powering the device;
(B) a second electric circuit, wherein a differential in voltage between the first and third electrodes causes electric current to flow through the electric circuit for powering the device;
and
(C) a third electric circuit, wherein a differential in voltage between the second and third electrodes causes electric current to flow through the electric circuit for powering the device;
(b) locating the device within the vicinity of powerlines whereby a differential in voltage exists between at least two of the first, second, and third electrodes;
(c) detecting relative voltages at the first, second, and third electrodes;
and
(d) based on the detected voltages and based on voltage and electric current specifications for powering the electrical load, configuring the electrical components to establish a particular one of the first, second, and third electric circuits such that electric current flows therethrough for powering the device.

15 more elements

A method for powering a device from one or more differentials in electric field strength within a vicinity of powerlines, comprising the steps of:

(a) providing a device comprising
(i) an external enclosure including one or more external walls;
(ii) a power supply configured to generate electric power from a differential in electric field strength when the device is within a vicinity of powerlines, the power supply comprising plurality of separated electrodes, wherein the one or more external walls comprise one or more of the plurality of electrodes;
and
(iii) electrical components electrically connected with the plurality of electrodes, at least one or more of the electrical components being configurable to establish each of a plurality of different electric circuits, each of the different electric circuits comprising a set of two or more mutually exclusive subsets of the plurality of electrodes, the electrodes in each subset that have more than one electrode being electrically connected with each other for avoiding a voltage differential therebetween, and the one or more electrodes of each subset being electrically insulated from each electrode of any other subset of the set for enabling one or more voltage differentials between the subsets of the set resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced when the device is within the vicinity of the powerlines, wherein the subsets of the set are interconnected such that the one or more voltage differentials between the subsets causes a current to flow through the electric circuit of the set for powering the device;
(b) locating the device within the vicinity of powerlines whereby a differential in voltage exists between at least two of the first, second, and third electrodes;
(c) detecting voltage differentials of the sets;
and
(d) based on the detected voltage differentials of the sets and based on voltage and electric current specifications for powering the device, configuring one or more of the electrical components to establish one of the plurality of different electric circuits for powering the device.

6 more elements

A UAV in which electric power is generated from a differential in electric field strength within a vicinity of powerlines, comprising:

(a) a first electrode having at least two overall substantial dimensions, a first of which is at least 80% of at least one of an overall heightwise extent, an overall lengthwise extent, and an overall widthwise extent of the UAV, and a second of which is at least 80% of at least one of the overall heightwise extent, the overall lengthwise extent, and the overall widthwise extent of the UAV;
and
(b) a second electrode having at least two overall substantial dimensions, a first of which is at least 80% of at least one of the overall heightwise extent, the overall lengthwise extent, and the overall widthwise extent of the UAV, and a second of which is at least 80% of at least one of the overall heightwise extent, the overall lengthwise extent, and the overall widthwise extent of the UAV;
(c) wherein the first and second electrodes are separated and electrically insulated from each other for enabling a differential in voltage at the first and second electrodes resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced at the first and second electrodes when within the vicinity of the powerlines;
and
(d) further comprising electrical components electrically connected with the first and second electrodes that establish an electric circuit, with the differential in voltage between the first and second electrodes causing a current to flow through the circuit for powering an electrical load of the electric circuit.

3 more elements

A UAV in which electric power is generated for an electrical load from a differential in electric field strength within a vicinity of powerlines, the UAV comprising:

(a) a plurality of electrodes comprising first, second, and third electrodes separated and electrically insulated from one another for enabling differentials in voltage at the first, second, and third electrodes resulting from differentials in electric field strength experienced at the first, second, and third electrodes when within the vicinity of the powerlines;
(b) electrical components electrically connected with the first, second, and third electrodes, at least one or more of the electrical components being configurable to establish each of
(i) a first electric circuit, wherein the differential in voltage between the first electrode and the second electrode causes a current to flow through the first electric circuit for powering an electrical load;
(ii) a second electric circuit, wherein the differential in voltage between the first electrode and the third electrode causes a current to flow through the second electric circuit for powering the electrical load;
and
(iii) a third electric circuit, wherein the differential in voltage between the second electrode and the third electrode causes a current to flow through the third electric circuit for powering the electrical load;
and
(c) a control assembly comprising
(i) one or more voltage-detector components configured to detect voltage of the first, second, and third electrodes;
and
(ii) a processor enabled to configure—based on the detected voltages and based on voltage and electric current specifications for powering the electrical load—one or more of the electrical components to establish one of the first electric circuit, the second electric circuit, and the third electric circuit for powering the electrical load.

8 more elements

A UAV in which electric power is generated for an electrical load from one or more differentials in electric field strength in a vicinity of powerlines, comprising:

(a) a plurality of separated electrodes;
(b) electrical components electrically connected with the plurality of electrodes, at least one or more of the electrical components being configurable to establish each of a plurality of different electric circuits, each of the different electric circuits comprising a set of two or more mutually exclusive subsets of the plurality of electrodes, the electrodes in each subset that have more than one electrode being electrically connected with each other for avoiding a voltage differential therebetween, and the one or more electrodes of each subset being electrically insulated from each electrode of any other subset of the set for enabling one or more voltage differentials between the subsets of the set resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced when the UAV is within the vicinity of the powerlines, wherein the subsets of the set are interconnected such that the one or more voltage differentials between the subsets causes a current to flow through the electric circuit of the set for powering the electrical load;
and
(c) a control assembly comprising
(i) one or more voltage-detector components configured to detect voltage differentials of the sets;
and
(ii) a processor enabled to process the detected voltage differentials and—based thereon and based on voltage and electric current specifications for powering the electrical load—configure one or more of the electrical components in order to establish one of the plurality of different electric circuits for powering the electrical load.

4 more elements

A method for generating electric power for an electrical load from a differential in electric field strength within a vicinity of powerlines, the method comprising the steps of:

(a) providing a UAV having first, second, and third electrodes;
(b) positioning the UAV within the vicinity of powerlines such that the first, second, and third electrodes experience differentials in electric field strength with resulting differentials in voltage at two or more of the first, second, and third electrodes;
(c) detecting relative voltages at the first, second, and third electrodes;
and
(d) establishing a particular one of a plurality of mutually exclusive electric circuits each comprising a pair of electrodes, the plurality of mutually exclusive electric circuits comprising
(i) a first electric circuit, in which the first electrode and the second electrode are separated and electrically insulated from each other for enabling a differential in voltage at the first and second electrodes resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced at the first and second electrodes when within the vicinity of the powerlines, the differential in voltage between the first electrode and the second electrode causing a current to flow through the first electric circuit for powering the electrical load;
(ii) a second electric circuit, in which the first electrode and the third electrode are separated and electrically insulated from each other for enabling a differential in voltage at the first and third electrodes resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced at the first and third electrodes when within the vicinity of the powerlines, the differential in voltage between the first electrode and the third electrode causing a current to flow through the second electric circuit for powering the electrical load;
and
(iii) a third electric circuit, in which the second electrode and the third electrode are separated and electrically insulated from each other for enabling a differential in voltage at the second and third electrodes resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced at the second and third electrodes when within the vicinity of the powerlines, the differential in voltage between the second electrode and the third electrode causing a current to flow through the third electric circuit for powering the electrical load;
(e) wherein the particular one of the plurality of mutually exclusive electric circuits is established as a function of the detected voltages and based on voltage and electric current specifications for powering the electrical load.

7 more elements

A method for generating electric power for an electrical load of a UAV from one or more differentials in electric field strength within a vicinity of powerlines, the UAV having a plurality of separated electrodes within the vicinity of powerlines, the method comprising the steps of:

(a) positioning the UAV within the vicinity of powerlines such that the plurality of separated electrodes experience differentials in electric field strength with resulting differentials in voltage at the electrodes;
and
(b) establishing a particular one of a plurality of different electric circuits, each of the different electric circuits comprising a set of two or more mutually exclusive subsets of the plurality of electrodes, the electrodes in each subset that have more than one electrode being electrically connected with each other for avoiding any voltage differential therebetween, and the one or more electrodes of each subset being electrically insulated from each electrode of any other subset of the set for enabling one or more voltage differentials between the subsets of the set, wherein the subsets are interconnected in each electric circuit such that the one or more voltage differentials therebetween causes a current to flow through the electric circuit for powering the electrical load;
and
(c) further comprising detecting voltage differentials of the sets, wherein the particular one of the plurality of different electric circuits is established as a function of the detected voltage differentials and electric current specifications for powering the electrical load.

2 more elements

A UAV, comprising:

(a) one or more electrical components;
and
(b) a power supply unit;
(c) wherein the UAV defines a bay configured to removably receive the power supply unit for electrical coupling with the UAV, by which electrical coupling electric current is provided to the UAV by the power supply unit;
(d) wherein the power supply unit is configured to generate electric power from a differential in electric field strength when the power supply unit is received in the bay, electrically coupled with the UAV, and within a vicinity of powerlines;
and
(e) wherein the power supply unit comprises
(i) a first electrode having at least two overall substantial dimensions, a first of which is at least 80% of at least one of an overall heightwise extent, an overall lengthwise extent, and an overall widthwise extent of the UAV, and a second of which is at least 80% of at least one of the overall heightwise extent, the overall lengthwise extent, and the overall widthwise extent of the UAV;
and
(ii) a second electrode having at least two overall substantial dimensions, a first of which is at least 80% of at least one of the overall heightwise extent, the overall lengthwise extent, and the overall widthwise extent of the UAV, and a second of which is at least 80% of at least one of the overall heightwise extent, the overall lengthwise extent, and the overall widthwise extent of the UAV;
(iii) wherein the first and second electrodes are separated and electrically insulated from each other for enabling a differential in voltage at the first and second electrodes resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced at the first and second electrodes when within the vicinity of the powerlines;
and
(f) further comprising electrical components electrically connected with the first and second electrodes that establish an electric circuit with one or more electrical components of the UAV when the power supply unit is received in the bay and electrically coupled with the UAV, wherein the differential in voltage between the first and second electrodes causes electric current to flow through the electric circuit for powering the UAV.

10 more elements

A UAV, comprising:

(a) one or more electrical components;
and
(b) a power supply unit;
(c) wherein the UAV defines a bay configured to removably receive the power supply unit for electrical coupling with the UAV, by which electrical coupling electric current is provided to the UAV by the power supply unit;
(d) wherein the power supply unit is configured to generate electric power from a differential in electric field strength when the power supply unit is received in the bay, electrically coupled with the UAV, and within a vicinity of powerlines;
(e) wherein the power supply unit comprises a plurality of electrodes comprising first, second, and third electrodes separated and electrically insulated from one another for enabling differentials in voltage at the first, second, and third electrodes resulting from differentials in electric field strength experienced at the first, second, and third electrodes when within the vicinity of the powerlines;
and
(f) wherein the UAV further comprises, when the power supply unit is electrically coupled with the UAV,
(i) electrical components electrically connected with the first, second, and third electrodes, at least one or more of the electrical components being configurable to establish each of
(A) a first electric circuit, wherein the differential in voltage between the first electrode and the second electrode causes a current to flow through the first electric circuit for powering the UAV;
(B) a second electric circuit, wherein the differential in voltage between the first electrode and the third electrode causes a current to flow through the second electric circuit for powering the UAV;
and
(C) a third electric circuit, wherein the differential in voltage between the second electrode and the third electrode causes a current to flow through the third electric circuit for powering the UAV;
(ii) one or more sensors configured to sense data regarding voltage of the first, second, and third electrodes;
and
(iii) a processor configured to process the sensed data and, based thereon and based on voltage and electric current specifications for powering the UAV, configure one or more of the electrical components to establish one of the first electric circuit, the second electric circuit, and the third electric circuit for powering the UAV.

13 more elements

A UAV, comprising:

(a) one or more electrical components;
and
(b) a power supply unit;
(c) wherein the UAV defines a bay configured to removably receive the power supply unit for electrical coupling with the UAV, by which electrical coupling electric current is provided to the UAV by the power supply unit;
(d) wherein the power supply unit is configured to generate electric power from a differential in electric field strength when the power supply unit is received in the bay, electrically coupled with the UAV, and within a vicinity of powerlines;
(e) wherein the power supply unit comprises a plurality of separated electrodes;
and
(f) wherein the UAV further comprises, when the power supply unit is electrically coupled with the UAV,
(i) electrical components electrically connected with the plurality of electrodes, at least one or more of the electrical components being configurable to establish each of a plurality of different electric circuits, each of the different electric circuits comprising a set of two or more mutually exclusive subsets of the plurality of electrodes, the electrodes in each subset that have more than one electrode being electrically connected with each other for avoiding a voltage differential therebetween, and the one or more electrodes of each subset being electrically insulated from each electrode of any other subset of the set for enabling one or more voltage differentials between the subsets of the set resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced when the UAV is within the vicinity of the powerlines, wherein the subsets of the set are interconnected such that the one or more voltage differentials between the subsets causes a current to flow through the electric circuit of the set for powering the UAV;
(ii) one or more sensors configured to sense data regarding voltage differentials of the sets;
and
(iii) a processor configured to process the sensed data and, based thereon and based on voltage and electric current specifications for powering the UAV, configure one or more of the electrical components to establish one of the plurality of different electric circuits for powering the UAV.

9 more elements

A method for powering a UAV, comprising the steps of:

(a) providing a power supply unit adapted to generate electric power from a differential in electric field strength within a vicinity of powerlines;
(b) electrically coupling the power supply unit with the UAV, comprising inserting the power supply unit into a bay of the UAV, whereby electrical components electrically connected with the first, second, and third electrodes are configurable to establish, through the electrical coupling, a particular one of a plurality of mutually exclusive electric circuits each comprising a pair of electrodes, the plurality of mutually exclusive electric circuits comprising
(i) a first electric circuit, in which the first electrode and the second electrode are separated and electrically insulated from each other for enabling a differential in voltage at the first and second electrodes resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced at the first and second electrodes when within the vicinity of the powerlines, the differential in voltage between the first electrode and the second electrode causing a current to flow through the first electric circuit for powering the UAV;
(ii) a second electric circuit, in which the first electrode and the third electrode are separated and electrically insulated from each other for enabling a differential in voltage at the first and third electrodes resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced at the first and third electrodes when within the vicinity of the powerlines, the differential in voltage between the first electrode and the third electrode causing a current to flow through the second electric circuit for powering the UAV;
and
(iii) a third electric circuit, in which the second electrode and the third electrode are separated and electrically insulated from each other for enabling a differential in voltage at the second and third electrodes resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced at the second and third electrodes when within the vicinity of the powerlines, the differential in voltage between the second electrode and the third electrode causing a current to flow through the third electric circuit for powering the UAV;
and
(c) locating the UAV within the vicinity of powerlines whereby a differential in voltage exists between at least two of the first, second, and third electrodes;
(d) sensing data regarding voltage at the first, second, and third electrodes;
and
(e) based on the sensed voltage data and based on voltage and electric current specifications for powering the electrical load, establishing a particular one of a plurality of mutually exclusive electric circuits whereby electric current flows therethrough for powering the UAV.

8 more elements

A UAV, comprising:

(a) an external enclosure including one or more external walls;
(b) a power supply configured to generate electric power from a differential in electric field strength when the UAV is within a vicinity of powerlines, the power supply comprising first, second, and third electrodes;
(c) wherein the one or more external walls comprise the first, second, and third electrodes;
and
(d) wherein the first, second, and third electrodes are separated and electrically insulated from each other for enabling
(i) a differential in voltage at the first and second electrodes resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced at the first and second electrodes when the UAV is within the vicinity of the powerlines;
(ii) a differential in voltage at the first and third electrodes resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced at the first and third electrodes when the UAV is within the vicinity of the powerlines;
and
(iii) a differential in voltage at the second and third electrodes resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced at the second and third electrodes when the UAV is within the vicinity of the powerlines;
and
further comprising
(e) electrical components electrically connected with the first, second, and third electrodes and configurable to establish, in the alternative, each of
(i) a first electric circuit, wherein a differential in voltage between the first and second electrodes causes electric current to flow through the electric circuit for powering the UAV;
(ii) a second electric circuit, wherein a differential in voltage between the first and third electrodes causes electric current to flow through the electric circuit for powering the UAV;
and
(iii) a third electric circuit, wherein a differential in voltage between the second and third electrodes causes electric current to flow through the electric circuit for powering the UAV;
(f) one or more voltage-detector components configured to detect voltages of the first, second, and third electrodes;
and
(g) a controller configured to process the detected voltages data and to configure one or more of the electrical components based thereon and based on voltage and electric current specifications for powering the UAV, in order to establish one of the first electric circuit, the second electric circuit, and the third electric circuit for powering the UAV.

16 more elements

A method for powering a UAV from one or more differentials in electric field strength within a vicinity of powerlines, comprising the steps of:

(a) providing a UAV comprising
(i) an external enclosure including one or more external walls;
and
(ii) a power supply configured to generate electric power from a differential in electric field strength when the UAV is within a vicinity of powerlines, the power supply comprising first and second electrodes;
(iii) wherein the one or more external walls comprise the first and second electrodes;
and
(iv) wherein the first and second electrodes are separated and electrically insulated from each other for enabling a differential in voltage at the first and second electrodes resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced at the first and second electrodes when the UAV is within the vicinity of the powerlines;
and
(v) further comprising electrical components electrically connected with the first and second electrodes that establish an electric circuit, wherein a differential in voltage between the first and second electrodes causes electric current to flow through the electric circuit for powering the UAV;
and
(b) positioning the UAV within the vicinity of powerlines such that a differential in electric field strength experienced at the first and second electrodes creates a differential in voltage between the first and second electrodes and causes electric current to flow through the electric circuit and powers the UAV.

8 more elements

A method for powering a UAV from one or more differentials in electric field strength within a vicinity of powerlines, comprising the steps of:

(a) providing a UAV comprising
(i) an external enclosure including one or more external walls;
(ii) a power supply configured to generate electric power from a differential in electric field strength when the UAV is within a vicinity of powerlines, the power supply comprising first, second, and third electrodes that are separated and electrically insulated from each other for enabling
(A) a differential in voltage at the first and second electrodes resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced at the first and second electrodes when the UAV is within the vicinity of the powerlines;
(B) a differential in voltage at the first and third electrodes resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced at the first and third electrodes when the UAV is within the vicinity of the powerlines;
and
(C) a differential in voltage at the second and third electrodes resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced at the second and third electrodes when the UAV is within the vicinity of the powerlines;
and
(iii) electrical components electrically connected with the first, second, and third electrodes and configurable to establish, in the alternative, each of
(A) a first electric circuit, wherein a differential in voltage between the first and second electrodes causes electric current to flow through the electric circuit for powering the UAV;
(B) a second electric circuit, wherein a differential in voltage between the first and third electrodes causes electric current to flow through the electric circuit for powering the UAV;
and
(C) a third electric circuit, wherein a differential in voltage between the second and third electrodes causes electric current to flow through the electric circuit for powering the UAV;
(b) locating the UAV within the vicinity of powerlines whereby a differential in voltage exists between at least two of the first, second, and third electrodes;
(c) detecting relative voltages at the first, second, and third electrodes;
and
(d) and based on the detected voltages and based on voltage and electric current specifications for powering the electrical load, configuring the electrical components to establish a particular one of the first, second, and third electric circuits such that electric current flows therethrough for powering the UAV.

14 more elements

A method for powering a UAV from one or more differentials in electric field strength within a vicinity of powerlines, comprising the steps of:

(a) providing a UAV comprising
(i) an external enclosure including one or more external walls;
(ii) a power supply configured to generate electric power from a differential in electric field strength when the UAV is within a vicinity of powerlines, the power supply comprising plurality of separated electrodes, wherein the one or more external walls comprise one or more of the plurality of electrodes;
and
(iii) electrical components electrically connected with the plurality of electrodes, at least one or more of the electrical components being configurable to establish each of a plurality of different electric circuits, each of the different electric circuits comprising a set of two or more mutually exclusive subsets of the plurality of electrodes, the electrodes in each subset that have more than one electrode being electrically connected with each other for avoiding a voltage differential therebetween, and the one or more electrodes of each subset being electrically insulated from each electrode of any other subset of the set for enabling one or more voltage differentials between the subsets of the set resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced when the UAV is within the vicinity of the powerlines, wherein the subsets of the set are interconnected such that the one or more voltage differentials between the subsets causes a current to flow through the electric circuit of the set for powering the UAV;
(b) locating the UAV within the vicinity of powerlines whereby a differential in voltage exists between at least two of the first, second, and third electrodes;
(c) detecting voltage differentials of the sets;
and
(d) based on the detected voltage differentials of the sets and based on voltage and electric current specifications for powering the UAV, configuring one or more of the electrical components to establish one of the plurality of different electric circuits for powering the UAV.

6 more elements

A charging station for charging within a vicinity of powerlines UAVs having a rechargeable battery, comprising:

(a) an interface for electric coupling with a UAV for charging of a rechargeable battery thereof;
(b) a power supply comprising a plurality of electrodes and electrical components electrically connected with the plurality of electrodes and configurable to establish each of a plurality of electric circuits, each of the electric circuits comprising the interface and a set of two or more mutually exclusive subsets of the plurality of electrodes, the electrodes in each subset that have more than one electrode being electrically connected with each other for avoiding any voltage differential therebetween, and the one or more electrodes of each subset being electrically insulated from each electrode of any other subset of the set for enabling one or more voltage differentials between the subsets of the set, wherein the subsets are interconnected in each particular electric circuit such that the one or more voltage differentials therebetween causes a current to flow through the particular electric circuit for charging through the interface the rechargeable battery;
and
(c) a control assembly comprising a processor enabled to configure one or more of the electrical components to establish a particular one of the electric circuits based on the voltage and current specifications of the rechargeable battery;
whereby the charging station is able to charge UAVs having rechargeable batteries with different voltage and current specifications.

2 more elements

A method of charging within a vicinity of powerlines UAVs having rechargeable batteries with different voltage and current specifications, comprising:

(a) providing a charging station comprising
(i) a plurality of different interfaces each for electric coupling with a UAV for charging of a rechargeable battery of the UAV, each different interface corresponding to different voltage and current specifications;
(ii) a power supply comprising a plurality of electrodes and electrical components electrically connected with the plurality of electrodes and configurable to establish each of a plurality of electric circuits, each of the electric circuits comprising one of the plurality of interfaces and a set of two or more mutually exclusive subsets of the plurality of electrodes, the electrodes in each subset that have more than one electrode being electrically connected with each other for avoiding any voltage differential therebetween, and the one or more electrodes of each subset being electrically insulated from each electrode of any other subset of the set for enabling one or more voltage differentials between the subsets of the set, wherein the subsets are interconnected in each particular electric circuit such that the one or more voltage differentials therebetween causes a current to flow through the particular electric circuit for charging through the interface the rechargeable battery;
and
(iii) a control assembly comprising a processor enabled to configure one or more of the electrical components to establish a particular one of the electric circuits based on the voltage and current specifications of the interface with which a UAV is electrically coupled for charging;
(b) locating the charging station within the vicinity of powerlines such that a differential in electric field strength is experienced at the plurality of electrodes with resulting voltage differentials;
(c) electrically coupling a particular one of the interfaces with a UAV;
and
(d) establishing a particular one of the electric circuits based on the voltage and current specifications of the interface with which a UAV is electrically coupled for charging, wherein a voltage differential in the particular electric circuit causes electric current to flow through the electric circuit for charging the rechargeable battery of the UAV;
whereby UAVs having rechargeable batteries with different voltage and current specifications can be charged.

7 more elements

A method of charging within a vicinity of powerlines UAVs having rechargeable batteries with different voltage and current specifications, comprising:

(a) providing a charging station comprising
(i) an interface for electric coupling with a UAV for charging of a rechargeable battery thereof, each different interface corresponding to different voltage and current specifications;
(ii) a power supply comprising a plurality of electrodes and electrical components electrically connected with the plurality of electrodes and configurable to establish each of a plurality of electric circuits, each of the electric circuits comprising the interface and a set of two or more mutually exclusive subsets of the plurality of electrodes, the electrodes in each subset that have more than one electrode being electrically connected with each other for avoiding any voltage differential therebetween, and the one or more electrodes of each subset being electrically insulated from each electrode of any other subset of the set for enabling one or more voltage differentials between the subsets of the set, wherein the subsets are interconnected in each particular electric circuit such that the one or more voltage differentials therebetween causes a current to flow through the particular electric circuit for charging through the interface the rechargeable battery;
and
(iii) a control assembly comprising a processor enabled to configure one or more of the electrical components to establish a particular one of the electric circuits based on the voltage and current specifications of the interface with which a UAV is electrically coupled for charging;
(b) locating the charging station within the vicinity of powerlines such that a differential in electric field strength is experienced at the plurality of electrodes with resulting voltage differentials;
(c) electrically coupling a particular one of the interfaces with a UAV;
(d) identifying the voltage and current specifications of the rechargeable battery of the UAV to be charged;
and
(e) establishing a particular one of the electric circuits based on the identified voltage and current specifications, wherein a voltage differential in the particular electric circuit causes electric current to flow through the electric circuit for charging the rechargeable battery of the UAV;
whereby the charging station is able to charge UAVs having rechargeable batteries with different voltage and current specifications.

8 more elements

A UAV in which electric power is generated for an electrical load from one or more differentials in electric field strength in a vicinity of powerlines, comprising:

(a) a plurality of separated electrodes;
(b) an interface configured to engage in electrical contact a shield wire of the powerlines so as to define an electrical pathway to ground;
(c) electrical components electrically connected with the plurality of electrodes,
(i) at least one or more of the electrical components being configurable to establish each of a plurality of different electric circuits, each of the different electric circuits comprising a set of two or more mutually exclusive subsets of the plurality of electrodes, the electrodes in each subset that have more than one electrode being electrically connected with each other for avoiding a voltage differential therebetween, and the one or more electrodes of each subset being electrically insulated from each electrode of any other subset of the set for enabling one or more voltage differentials between the subsets of the set resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced when the UAV is within the vicinity of the powerlines, wherein the subsets of the set are interconnected such that the one or more voltage differentials between the subsets causes a current to flow through the electric circuit of the set for powering the electrical load;
and
(ii) at least one or more of the electrical components being configurable to cause a current to flow between one or more of the electrodes and the shield wire for powering the electrical load of the UAV;
and
(d) a control assembly comprising
(i) one or more voltage-detector components configured to detect voltage differentials of the sets;
and
(ii) a processor enabled to process the detected voltage differentials and—based thereon and based on voltage and electric current specifications for powering the electrical load—configure one or more of the electrical components in order to establish one of the plurality of different electric circuits for powering the electrical load and cause a current to flow between one or more of the electrodes and the shield wire for powering the electrical load of the UAV.

8 more elements

A device in which electric power is generated from a differential in electric field strength within a vicinity of powerlines, the device comprising:

(a) a mounting component for mounting the device to a powerline tower;
(b) a sensor component for detecting a change in inclination of the powerline tower;
(c) a communication component for communicating an alert regarding a change in inclination of the powerline tower;
(d) a plurality of separated electrodes;
(e) electrical components electrically connected with the plurality of electrodes, at least one or more of the electrical components being configurable to establish each of a plurality of different electric circuits, each of the different electric circuits comprising a set of two or more mutually exclusive subsets of the plurality of electrodes, the electrodes in each subset that have more than one electrode being electrically connected with each other for avoiding a voltage differential therebetween, and the one or more electrodes of each subset being electrically insulated from each electrode of any other subset of the set for enabling one or more voltage differentials between the subsets of the set resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced when the device is within the vicinity of the powerlines, wherein the subsets of the set are interconnected such that the one or more voltage differentials between the subsets causes a current to flow through the electric circuit of the set for powering the device, including at least one of the sensor component and the communication component;
and
(f) a control assembly comprising
(i) one or more voltage-detector components configured to detect voltage differentials of the sets;
and
(ii) a processor enabled to process the detected voltage differentials and—based thereon and based on voltage and electric current specifications for powering the electrical load—configure one or more of the electrical components in order to establish one of the plurality of different electric circuits for powering the electrical load.

7 more elements

A method for detecting a positional change of a powerline tower in a power transmission system comprising a plurality of towers, the method comprising the steps of:

(a) mounting each of a plurality of devices respectively to each of the plurality of towers, each device of the plurality of devices comprising
(i) a sensor component for detecting a change in inclination of a powerline tower;
(ii) a communication component for communicating an alert regarding a change in inclination of the powerline tower;
(iii) first and second electrodes separated and electrically insulated from each other for enabling a differential in voltage at the first and second electrodes resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced at the first and second electrodes when within a vicinity of powerlines;
and
(iv) electrical components electrically connected with the first and second electrodes and configured to establish a circuit, wherein the differential in voltage between the first and second electrodes causes electric current to flow through the electric circuit;
(b) powering the sensor component and the communication component in each respective device using the electric current flow through the electric circuit thereof;
(c) using the sensor component of each mounted device, detecting by at least one of the sensor components a change with respect to inclination of one or more of the towers of the power transmission system;
and
(d) using the communication component of at least one of the mounted devices, communicating an alert regarding the detected change.

7 more elements

A UAV in which electric power is generated from a differential in electric field strength within a vicinity of powerlines, comprising:

(a) a first electrode having at least two overall substantial dimensions, a first of which is at least 80% of at least one of an overall heightwise extent, an overall lengthwise extent, and an overall widthwise extent of the UAV, and a second of which is at least 80% of at least one of the overall heightwise extent, the overall lengthwise extent, and the overall widthwise extent of the UAV;
and
(b) a second electrode having at least two overall substantial dimensions, a first of which is at least 80% of at least one of the overall heightwise extent, the overall lengthwise extent, and the overall widthwise extent of the UAV, and a second of which is at least 80% of at least one of the overall heightwise extent, the overall lengthwise extent, and the overall widthwise extent of the UAV;
(c) wherein the first and second electrodes are separated and electrically insulated from each other for enabling a differential in voltage at the first and second electrodes resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced at the first and second electrodes when within the vicinity of the powerlines;
and
(d) wherein the UAV comprises one or more containment spaces extending between electrodes, the containment spaces each containing a hydrogen gas, containing a helium gas, or containing a vacuum;
and
(e) further comprising electrical components electrically connected with the first and second electrodes that establish an electric circuit, with the differential in voltage between the first and second electrodes causing a current to flow through the circuit for powering an electrical load of the electric circuit.

5 more elements

A UAV in which electric power is generated for an electrical load from a differential in electric field strength within a vicinity of powerlines, the UAV comprising:

(a) a plurality of electrodes comprising first, second, and third electrodes separated and electrically insulated from one another for enabling differentials in voltage at the first, second, and third electrodes resulting from differentials in electric field strength experienced at the first, second, and third electrodes when within the vicinity of the powerlines;
(b) electrical components electrically connected with the first, second, and third electrodes, at least one or more of the electrical components being configurable to establish each of
(i) a first electric circuit, wherein the differential in voltage between the first electrode and the second electrode causes a current to flow through the first electric circuit for powering an electrical load;
(ii) a second electric circuit, wherein the differential in voltage between the first electrode and the third electrode causes a current to flow through the second electric circuit for powering the electrical load;
and
(iii) a third electric circuit, wherein the differential in voltage between the second electrode and the third electrode causes a current to flow through the third electric circuit for powering the electrical load;
(c) a control assembly comprising
(i) one or more voltage-detector components configured to detect voltage of the first, second, and third electrodes;
and
(ii) a processor enabled to configure—based on the detected voltages and based on voltage and electric current specifications for powering the electrical load—one or more of the electrical components to establish one of the first electric circuit, the second electric circuit, and the third electric circuit for powering the electrical load;
and
(d) one or more containment spaces extending between electrodes, the containment spaces each containing a hydrogen gas, containing a helium gas, or containing a vacuum.

9 more elements

A UAV in which electric power is generated for an electrical load from one or more differentials in electric field strength in a vicinity of powerlines, comprising:

(a) a plurality of separated electrodes;
(b) electrical components electrically connected with the plurality of electrodes, at least one or more of the electrical components being configurable to establish each of a plurality of different electric circuits, each of the different electric circuits comprising a set of two or more mutually exclusive subsets of the plurality of electrodes, the electrodes in each subset that have more than one electrode being electrically connected with each other for avoiding a voltage differential therebetween, and the one or more electrodes of each subset being electrically insulated from each electrode of any other subset of the set for enabling one or more voltage differentials between the subsets of the set resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced when the UAV is within the vicinity of the powerlines, wherein the subsets of the set are interconnected such that the one or more voltage differentials between the subsets causes a current to flow through the electric circuit of the set for powering the electrical load;
(c) a control assembly comprising
(i) one or more voltage-detector components configured to detect voltage differentials of the sets;
and
(ii) a processor enabled to process the detected voltage differentials and—based thereon and based on voltage and electric current specifications for powering the electrical load—configure one or more of the electrical components in order to establish one of the plurality of different electric circuits for powering the electrical load;
(d) one or more containment spaces extending between electrodes, the containment spaces each containing a hydrogen gas, containing a helium gas, or containing a vacuum.

4 more elements

A UAV, comprising:

(a) one or more electrical components;
and
(b) a power supply unit;
(c) wherein the UAV defines a bay configured to removably receive the power supply unit for electrical coupling with the UAV, by which electrical coupling electric current is provided to the UAV by the power supply unit;
(d) wherein the power supply unit is configured to generate electric power from a differential in electric field strength when the power supply unit is received in the bay, electrically coupled with the UAV, and within a vicinity of powerlines;
and
(e) wherein the power supply unit comprises
(i) a first electrode having at least two overall substantial dimensions, a first of which is at least 80% of at least one of an overall heightwise extent, an overall lengthwise extent, and an overall widthwise extent of the UAV, and a second of which is at least 80% of at least one of the overall heightwise extent, the overall lengthwise extent, and the overall widthwise extent of the UAV;
and
(ii) a second electrode having at least two overall substantial dimensions, a first of which is at least 80% of at least one of the overall heightwise extent, the overall lengthwise extent, and the overall widthwise extent of the UAV, and a second of which is at least 80% of at least one of the overall heightwise extent, the overall lengthwise extent, and the overall widthwise extent of the UAV;
(iii) wherein the first and second electrodes are separated and electrically insulated from each other for enabling a differential in voltage at the first and second electrodes resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced at the first and second electrodes when within the vicinity of the powerlines;
and
(f) further comprising electrical components electrically connected with the first and second electrodes that establish an electric circuit with one or more electrical components of the UAV when the power supply unit is received in the bay and electrically coupled with the UAV, wherein the differential in voltage between the first and second electrodes causes electric current to flow through the electric circuit for powering the UAV;
(g) wherein one or more containment spaces extend between electrodes, the containment spaces each containing a hydrogen gas, containing a helium gas, or containing a vacuum.

11 more elements

A UAV, comprising:

(a) one or more electrical components;
and
(b) a power supply unit;
(c) wherein the UAV defines a bay configured to removably receive the power supply unit for electrical coupling with the UAV, by which electrical coupling electric current is provided to the UAV by the power supply unit;
(d) wherein the power supply unit is configured to generate electric power from a differential in electric field strength when the power supply unit is received in the bay, electrically coupled with the UAV, and within a vicinity of powerlines;
(e) wherein the power supply unit comprises a plurality of electrodes comprising first, second, and third electrodes separated and electrically insulated from one another for enabling differentials in voltage at the first, second, and third electrodes resulting from differentials in electric field strength experienced at the first, second, and third electrodes when within the vicinity of the powerlines;
(f) wherein one or more containment spaces extend between electrodes, the containment spaces each containing a hydrogen gas, containing a helium gas, or containing a vacuum;
and
(g) wherein the UAV further comprises, when the power supply unit is electrically coupled with the UAV,
(i) electrical components electrically connected with the first, second, and third electrodes, at least one or more of the electrical components being configurable to establish each of
(A) a first electric circuit, wherein the differential in voltage between the first electrode and the second electrode causes a current to flow through the first electric circuit for powering the UAV;
(B) a second electric circuit, wherein the differential in voltage between the first electrode and the third electrode causes a current to flow through the second electric circuit for powering the UAV;
and
(C) a third electric circuit, wherein the differential in voltage between the second electrode and the third electrode causes a current to flow through the third electric circuit for powering the UAV;
(ii) one or more sensors configured to sense data regarding voltage of the first, second, and third electrodes;
and
(iii) a processor configured to process the sensed data and, based thereon and based on voltage and electric current specifications for powering the UAV, configure one or more of the electrical components to establish one of the first electric circuit, the second electric circuit, and the third electric circuit for powering the UAV.

14 more elements

A UAV, comprising:

(a) one or more electrical components;
and
(b) a power supply unit;
(c) wherein the UAV defines a bay configured to removably receive the power supply unit for electrical coupling with the UAV, by which electrical coupling electric current is provided to the UAV by the power supply unit;
(d) wherein the power supply unit is configured to generate electric power from a differential in electric field strength when the power supply unit is received in the bay, electrically coupled with the UAV, and within a vicinity of powerlines;
(e) wherein the power supply unit comprises a plurality of separated electrodes;
(f) wherein one or more containment spaces extend between electrodes, the containment spaces each containing a hydrogen gas, containing a helium gas, or containing a vacuum;
and
(g) wherein the UAV further comprises, when the power supply unit is electrically coupled with the UAV,
(i) electrical components electrically connected with the plurality of electrodes, at least one or more of the electrical components being configurable to establish each of a plurality of different electric circuits, each of the different electric circuits comprising a set of two or more mutually exclusive subsets of the plurality of electrodes, the electrodes in each subset that have more than one electrode being electrically connected with each other for avoiding a voltage differential therebetween, and the one or more electrodes of each subset being electrically insulated from each electrode of any other subset of the set for enabling one or more voltage differentials between the subsets of the set resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced when the UAV is within the vicinity of the powerlines, wherein the subsets of the set are interconnected such that the one or more voltage differentials between the subsets causes a current to flow through the electric circuit of the set for powering the UAV;
(ii) one or more sensors configured to sense data regarding voltage differentials of the sets;
and
(iii) a processor configured to process the sensed data and, based thereon and based on voltage and electric current specifications for powering the UAV, configure one or more of the electrical components to establish one of the plurality of different electric circuits for powering the UAV.

10 more elements

A UAV, comprising:

(a) an external enclosure including one or more external walls;
(b) a power supply configured to generate electric power from a differential in electric field strength when the UAV is within a vicinity of powerlines, the power supply comprising first, second, and third electrodes;
(c) wherein the one or more external walls comprise the first, second, and third electrodes;
and
(d) wherein the first, second, and third electrodes are separated and electrically insulated from each other for enabling
(i) a differential in voltage at the first and second electrodes resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced at the first and second electrodes when the UAV is within the vicinity of the powerlines;
(ii) a differential in voltage at the first and third electrodes resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced at the first and third electrodes when the UAV is within the vicinity of the powerlines;
and
(iii) a differential in voltage at the second and third electrodes resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced at the second and third electrodes when the UAV is within the vicinity of the powerlines;
and
further comprising
(e) electrical components electrically connected with the first, second, and third electrodes and configurable to establish, in the alternative, each of
(i) a first electric circuit, wherein a differential in voltage between the first and second electrodes causes electric current to flow through the electric circuit for powering the UAV;
(ii) a second electric circuit, wherein a differential in voltage between the first and third electrodes causes electric current to flow through the electric circuit for powering the UAV;
and
(iii) a third electric circuit, wherein a differential in voltage between the second and third electrodes causes electric current to flow through the electric circuit for powering the UAV;
(f) one or more voltage-detector components configured to detect voltages of the first, second, and third electrodes;
and
(g) a controller configured to process the detected voltages data and to configure one or more of the electrical components based thereon and based on voltage and electric current specifications for powering the UAV, in order to establish one of the first electric circuit, the second electric circuit, and the third electric circuit for powering the UAV;
(h) wherein one or more containment spaces extend between electrodes, the containment spaces each containing a hydrogen gas, containing a helium gas, or containing a vacuum.

17 more elements

A UAV, comprising:

(a) an external enclosure including one or more external walls;
(b) a power supply configured to generate electric power from a differential in electric field strength when the UAV is within a vicinity of powerlines, the power supply comprising a plurality of separated electrodes, wherein the one or more external walls comprise one or more of the plurality of electrodes;
(c) electrical components electrically connected with the plurality of electrodes, at least one or more of the electrical components being configurable to establish each of a plurality of different electric circuits, each of the different electric circuits comprising a set of two or more mutually exclusive subsets of the plurality of electrodes, the electrodes in each subset that have more than one electrode being electrically connected with each other for avoiding a voltage differential therebetween, and the one or more electrodes of each subset being electrically insulated from each electrode of any other subset of the set for enabling one or more voltage differentials between the subsets of the set resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced when the UAV is within the vicinity of the powerlines, wherein the subsets of the set are interconnected such that the one or more voltage differentials between the subsets causes a current to flow through the electric circuit of the set for powering the UAV;
(d) one or more sensors configured to sense data regarding voltage differentials of the sets;
and
(e) a controller configured to process the sensed data and based thereon and based on voltage and electric current specifications for powering the UAV, configure one or more of the electrical components to establish one of the plurality of different electric circuits for powering the UAV;
(f) wherein one or more containment spaces extend between electrodes, the containment spaces each containing a hydrogen gas, containing a helium gas, or containing a vacuum.

4 more elements

A UAV in which electric power is generated for an electrical load from one or more differentials in electric field strength in a vicinity of powerlines, comprising:

(a) a plurality of separated electrodes;
(b) an interface configured to engage in electrical contact a shield wire of the powerlines so as to define an electrical pathway to ground;
(c) electrical components electrically connected with the plurality of electrodes,
(i) at least one or more of the electrical components being configurable to establish each of a plurality of different electric circuits, each of the different electric circuits comprising a set of two or more mutually exclusive subsets of the plurality of electrodes, the electrodes in each subset that have more than one electrode being electrically connected with each other for avoiding a voltage differential therebetween, and the one or more electrodes of each subset being electrically insulated from each electrode of any other subset of the set for enabling one or more voltage differentials between the subsets of the set resulting from a differential in electric field strength experienced when the UAV is within the vicinity of the powerlines, wherein the subsets of the set are interconnected such that the one or more voltage differentials between the subsets causes a current to flow through the electric circuit of the set for powering the electrical load;
and
(ii) at least one or more of the electrical components being configurable to cause a current to flow between one or more of the electrodes and the shield wire for powering the electrical load of the UAV;
(d) a control assembly comprising
(i) one or more voltage-detector components configured to detect voltage differentials of the sets;
and
(ii) a processor enabled to process the detected voltage differentials and—based thereon and based on voltage and electric current specifications for powering the electrical load—configure one or more of the electrical components in order to establish one of the plurality of different electric circuits for powering the electrical load and cause a current to flow between one or more of the electrodes and the shield wire for powering the electrical load of the UAV;
and
(e) one or more containment spaces extending between electrodes, the containment spaces each containing a hydrogen gas, containing a helium gas, or containing a vacuum.

9 more elements

Apparatus having electric-field actuated generator for powering electrical load within vicinity of powerlines

Life of this patent

Apparatus having electric-field actuated generator for powering electrical load within vicinity of powerlines

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims423