Multi-Vehicle Omnidirectional Aircraft Maneuvering

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a multi-vehicle omnidirectional aircraft maneuvering system comprising a plurality of tow vehicles, each tow vehicle comprising a turntable lifting unit (TLU) configured to capture and secure a portion of an aircraft's landing gear, a control unit configured to communicate with and coordinate the movements of the plurality of tow vehicles, and wherein each TLU comprises an automated turntable, a gate configured to open and close to receive landing gear, and a moving floor configured to support the landing gear. The system enables precise positioning and omnidirectional movement of aircraft through coordinated operation of multiple tow vehicles that simultaneously engage with different landing gear components. Each tow vehicle includes sensors for detecting landing gear position and environmental conditions, while the control unit establishes wireless communication to synchronize lifting operations and coordinate simultaneous movement patterns. The turntable lifting units provide rotational capability while maintaining secure engagement with the aircraft's landing gear, allowing for complex maneuvering operations in confined spaces such as aircraft hangars and maintenance facilities.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.