| 摘要 |
<p>A method and apparatus for retrieving an aircraft in a confined space involves hanging a cable, for example from a kite or mast, across the aircraft's flight path. The aircraft approaches the cable in steady forward flight, and may strike the cable at any point on the wing, fuselage, or other leading surface. The cable then slides along the airframe as the aircraft moves forward, until it is intercepted by a hook attached to the wing tip or other convenient location. The hook captures the cable, and prevents further sliding; the cable then pulls the aircraft to a stop. Compliance of the cable, optionally combined with compliance of the cable suspension, provides acceptably gradual deceleration. The aircraft is left suspended in mid-air, and is then winched or slid to the base of the cable or other convenient retrieval point. The cable suspension and other fixed objects can be kept well clear of the flight path, so that the aircraft can continue safely in the event that it misses the cable, and make another approach.</p> |
