the mga is a heavier - than - air v2l vehicle that is airborne and waterborne . it uses downward thrust from its motor - wing apparatuses for vertical , hovering and forward flight . it uses forward thrust from its motor - wing apparatuses and lift from its c - wings to transition from forward flight to horizontal flight . in flight ; the pilot , passenger and contents rotate within the cockpit apparatus along multiple axes to a preferred orientation . each apparatus carries its own power system , fuel system , communication system , control system , and computer / navigation system . u . s . pat . nos . 8 , 973 , 862 b2 ; 9 , 296 , 477 b1 ; 5 , 115 , 996 ; 8 , 322 , 648 b2 ; 8 , 453 , 962 b2 ; 9 , 085 , 355 b2 and 6 , 886 , 776 . illustrates views of the mga in flight . fig1 depicts the mga 0102 in vertical , hovering and forward flight . fig2 depicts the mga 0102 in horizontal flight . illustrates top and front views of the mga . fig3 depicts the top view of the mga in the ground start position . fig4 depicts the front view of the mga . mga 0102 consist of : cockpit apparatus 0202 , airframe apparatus 0203 , motor - wing no . 1 apparatus 0204 , motor - wing no . 2 apparatus 0205 , motor - wing no . 3 apparatus 0206 , and motor - wing no . 4 apparatus 0207 . the ground start position is where mga 0102 is on the ground and oriented accordingly : the pilot is level to the ground and faces forward ; cockpit apparatus 0202 and airframe apparatus 0203 are level with the motor - wing apparatuses and motor - wing no . 1 0204 is on the pilot &# 39 ; s left forward side . the motor - wing apparatuses are numbered in the following clockwise order : motor - wing no . 2 0205 ; motor - wing no . 3 0206 ; and motor - wing no . 4 0207 . the structural frame withstands the forces acting upon the mga during flight operations . the forces include : aerodynamic forces , thrust and torque forces from the motors and impact forces . the motor - wing and airframe structure assemblies are modular and interchangeable . components within each assembly are welded or molded together to form a unitized piece . u . s . pat . no . 8 , 322 , 648 b2 . illustrates the top and bottom views of the mga &# 39 ; s structural frame . fig5 depicts the top view of the mga &# 39 ; s structural frame assembled . it consists of : airframe structure assembly 0302 and motor - wing structure assemblies 0303 . fig6 depicts the bottom view of the mga &# 39 ; s structural frame disassembled . airframe structure assembly 0302 consists of : airframe c - channel 0304 , airframe arm 0305 and airframe ring 0312 . motor - wing structure assembly 0303 consists of components : motor - wing ring 0306 , motor - wing arm 0307 , strut 0308 , motor - mount 0309 , quill body 0310 and motor - wing c - channel 0311 . access ports are arrayed around 0304 and 0311 . access ports are incorporated into 0308 and 0310 . the cockpit apparatus works under the principles of a multi - axis gimbal . the pilot , passenger and contents rotate along multiple axes within the cockpit apparatus . u . s . pat . nos . 5 , 797 , 054 and 6 , 708 , 943 b2 . illustrates top and bottom views of the cockpit apparatus . fig7 depicts the top view of cockpit apparatus 0202 . it highlights vent 0408 and upper canopy assembly 0407 . fig8 depicts the bottom view of cockpit apparatus 0202 . it highlights plug 0409 and hull assembly 0406 . fig9 depicts the top view of cockpit apparatus 0202 with the upper canopy assembly 0407 in the open position . the cockpit apparatus 0202 consists of : seat platform assembly 0404 , gimbal assembly 0405 , hull assembly 0406 , upper canopy assembly 0407 , vent 0408 , plug 0409 and hinge 0410 . 0405 and 0406 are attached to outer gimbal ring 0606 . hinge 0410 is attached to motorized pivot assembly 0607 and allows the opening of upper canopy assembly 0407 . 0406 and 0407 are made of a clear material to allow unrestricted views outside the cockpit apparatus . illustrates top and bottom views of the seat platform assembly . fig1 depicts the bottom view of seat platform assembly 0404 . fig1 depicts the top view of seat platform assembly 0404 . 0404 consists of : bench seat assembly 0502 , console 0503 , platform 0504 , navigation display assembly 0505 , touch - pad display assembly 0506 , platform support ring 0507 , cargo hold hatch 0508 , power supply unit 0509 , environmental control system 0510 , right hand controller 0511 , left hand controller 0512 , accelerator foot pedal 0513 , brake pedal 0514 and master computer / navigation system 0515 . 0404 is attached to inner gimbal ring 0604 . illustrates the gimbal assembly . gimbal rings are molded or welded to motorized pivot assemblies making unitized pieces . the gimbal rings are attached to one another by two motorized pivot assemblies placed opposite of each other . this restricts the rotational movement between any two gimbals along a single axis . the gimbal rings are sized to allow clear passage of each other while rotating along their respective axes and remain independent of the rotation of its support . fig1 depicts the motion of gimbal assembly 0405 in pitch , yaw and roll within airframe structure assembly 0302 . fig1 depicts a view of the gimbal assembly 0405 . inner gimbal ring 0604 is attached to middle gimbal ring 0605 by motorized pivot assembly 0607 . 0605 is attached to outer gimbal ring 0606 by 0607 . fig1 depicts a view of motorized pivot assembly 0607 attached to airframe structure 0302 . fig1 depicts a section detail of motorized pivot 0607 . 0607 is a shaft and bearing combination that allows restricted movement along a single axis . 0607 consists of : housing 0608 , cover plate 0609 , communicating led module 0610 , bearing plate 0611 , controller 0612 , motor 0613 , electrical contact ring 0614 , shaft 0615 , drive wheel 0616 and spacer plate 0617 . electrical current passes from one gimbal ring to another via electrical contact ring 0614 . illustrates the gimbal and seat platform assemblies within the airframe structure assembly . fig1 depicts the gimbal and seat platform assemblies within the airframe structure assembly in the ground start position . fig1 depicts the gimbal and seat platform assemblies within the airframe structure assembly in the horizontal flight start position . here , the pilot is level to the ground . canopy assemblies 0406 and 0407 are attached to inner gimbal ring 0604 . 0406 and 0407 are attached to middle gimbal ring 0605 . 0406 and 0407 are attached to airframe apparatus 0203 . environmental control system 0510 pressurizes cockpit apparatus 0202 . the airframe apparatus supports the cockpit and motor - wing apparatuses . it carries a wench assembly for flight missions and deploys an emergency parachute for in - flight emergencies . u . s . pat . no . 9 , 290 , 267 . illustrates the top and bottom views of the airframe apparatus . fig1 depicts the bottom view of the airframe apparatus . fig1 depicts the top view of the airframe apparatus . airframe apparatus 0203 consists of : airframe structure assembly 0302 , airframe modular panel assembly 0802 , wench assembly 0803 , camera 0804 , railing assembly 0805 , emergency parachute assembly 0806 and communicating led module 0610 . illustrates a view and detail of the airframe apparatus . fig2 depicts a view of the airframe apparatus with a section of airframe modular panels removed . it reveals the construction of the airframe apparatus . airframe modular panel assembly 0802 consists of : airframe top module 0902 , airframe middle module 0903 , airframe bottom module 0904 , airframe top sleeve module 0905 , airframe middle sleeve module 0906 , airframe bottom sleeve module 0907 , and airframe access module 0908 . fig2 depicts a typical section detail through the airframe apparatus . it highlights buoyant material 0909 , battery / fuel cell 0910 , fuel tank / bladder 0911 , wire harness 0912 , fuel line 0913 , and fuel pump 0914 . 0909 fills part of the cavity of 0904 . additional wench assemblies 0803 attached to the airframe structure . additional rail assemblies 0805 attached to the airframe structure for mounting other assemblies ( e . g . a trolling motor ). the motor - wings work under the principles of rotary wing aircraft and cylindrical wings . the aircraft is kept stable by gyroscopic and counter - rotating effects of elements rotating around the shafts of its respective motor - wing apparatuses . the motor - wing apparatuses provide thrust in vertical , hovering and forward flight . they provide thrust and lift in horizontal flight . the c - wing varies its shape providing different aerodynamic characteristics during horizontal flight . the quills are interchangeable , accommodating various propulsion and engine types . the motor - wings accommodate a number of landing gear assemblies and safety equipment for soils conditions and mission types respectively . the motor - wing incorporates a light bracelet assembly that automatically signals elevation and flight maneuvers to other aircraft . the motor - wing incorporates docking ports for contact flight formation maneuvers . u . s . pat . nos . 4 , 151 , 674 ; 6 , 048 , 245 and 6 , 462 , 927 . illustrates top and bottom views of motor - wing no . 1 . the other motor - wings are similar . fig2 depicts the bottom view of motor - wing no . 1 with c - wing extension 1007 deployed . fig2 depicts the top view of motor - wing no . 1 with c - wing extension 1007 retracted . motor - wing apparatus no . 1 0204 consists of : motor - wing structure assembly 0303 , c - wing modular panel assembly 1002 , gill 1003 , male docking assembly 1004 , female docking assembly 1005 , extender assembly 1006 , c - wing extension 1007 , air turbulence ports 1008 , ailerons 1009 , light - bracelet assembly 1010 , and ladder 1011 . illustrates a view and details of the c - wing assembly . the c - wing assembly acts as a wing and propeller shield . fig2 depicts a view of the c - wing assembly with a section of the c - wing modular panels removed . fig2 depicts a typical section detail through the c - wing assembly . c - wing assembly 1002 consists of : c - wing extension 1007 , light - bracelet cover 1103 , c - wing access module 1104 , c - wing middle module 1105 , c - wing bottom module 1106 , c - wing bottom sleeve module 1107 , c - wing middle sleeve module 1108 , wire harness 0912 , fuel line 0913 , fuel pump 0914 , motor - wing ring 0306 , motor - wing c - channel 0311 , buoyant material 0909 , battery / fuel cell 0910 and fuel tank / bladder 0911 . fig2 depicts a section detail through the c - wing assembly at the gill module . gill module 1112 consists of gill 1003 and gill actuator 1111 . 1003 act as air brakes and trim tabs . illustrates details of the c - wing assembly . fig2 depicts a section detail through the c - wing at the female docking assembly . fig2 depicts a section detail through the c - wing at the male docking assembly . fig2 depicts a section detail through the c - wing at the extender assembly . female docking assembly 1005 consists of : docking housing 1203 , electromagnet 1204 , camera 0804 and controller 0612 . male docking assembly 1004 consists of : docking housing 1203 , electromagnet 1204 , camera 0804 and controller 0612 . extender assembly 1006 consists of : mounting brackets 1207 , lower extender housing 1206 , upper extender housing 1205 and extender actuator 1208 . camera 0804 aligns with other mga &# 39 ; s docking assembly during docking procedures . illustrates the quill assemblies . different engine types are mounted to motor - mount 0309 . engine and struts 0308 are not shown for clarity . the quills are interchangeable . fig3 depicts a propeller quill rotating clockwise . clockwise propeller quill assembly 1310 consists of : quill body 1305 , clockwise propeller assembly 1306 , propeller nose cone 1307 , motor - mount 0309 , and propeller landing gear assembly 1308 . fig3 depicts a propeller quill rotating counter - clockwise . counter - clockwise propeller quill assembly 1311 consists of : quill body 1305 , counter - clockwise propeller assembly 1309 , propeller nose cone 1307 , motor - mount 0309 , and propeller landing gear assembly 1308 . quill body 1305 accommodates access panels . illustrates safety grate assemblies . the safety grates act as propeller shrouds . fig3 depicts the upper safety grate assembly . upper safety grate assembly 1402 consists of : wire grating 1403 and tubing structure 1404 . fig3 depicts the lower safety grate assembly . lower safety grate assembly 1405 consists of : wire grating 1403 and tubing structure 1404 . variable pitch propellers for propeller assembly 1310 and 1311 . propeller assemblies 1310 and 1311 auto - gyrate when not in use and are connected to generators or alternators to recharge power supplies in the mga . the pilot inputs commands through the hand controllers , display screens and foot pedals to operate the mga and gimbal assembly . u . s . pat . nos . 6 , 222 , 179 b1 and 9 , 344 , 622 b2 . illustrates the hand controllers . the left hand controller maneuvers the gimbal assembly . the right hand controller maneuvers the mga . fig3 depicts the right hand controller 0511 . 0511 controls the direction of the mga in pitch , yaw and roll . right hand controller 0511 consists of : led communicating module 0610 , right hand rollerball 1502 , controller arm 1506 , right hand controller housing 1508 , flight transition button 1509 , autopilot button 1510 , right hand programmable button 1511 , touch - and - go button 1512 , docking button 1513 , right click button 1516 , left click button 1517 , and hover button 1519 . the sensitivity of rollerball 1502 is adjustable . fig3 depicts the left hand controller 0512 . 0512 controls the orientation of seat platform assembly 0404 . left hand controller 0512 consists of : left hand rollerball 1515 , left hand controller housing 1503 , ground start position button 1504 , horizontal flight start position button 1505 , controller arm 1506 , left hand programmable button 1507 , level button 1514 and communicating led module 0610 . rollerball 1515 engages gimbal assembly 0405 and moves platform assembly 0404 in direct response to the pilot &# 39 ; s commands . the sensitivity of rollerball 1515 is adjustable . accelerator foot pedal 0513 increases and decreases the speed of the mga . power button 1704 turns the mga on and off . brake pedal 0514 engages the air brakes . illustrates the touch - pad display assembly . the touch - pad display screen consists of windows and sub - windows . sub - windows slide over to fill the larger variable window . fig3 depicts the touch - pad display assembly . touchpad display assembly 0506 consists of : touch - pad display housing 1602 , articulating arm 1603 , touch - pad display screen 1604 , communicating led module 0610 and camera 0804 . fig3 depicts the touch - pad display screen 1604 . 1604 consists of : pilot orientation and compass window 1605 , keypad window 1606 , variable window 1607 , side screen window 1608 , motor - wing gage window 1609 and cockpit gage window 1610 . sub - windows consist of : computer operating system sub - window 1611 , environmental controls sub - window 1612 , cockpit lighting control sub - window 1613 , cockpit camera sub - window 1614 , camera system sub - window 1615 and programmable sub - windows 1616 ( e . g . wench assembly controls window ). keypad window 1606 consists of a computer keyboard . motor - wing gage window 1609 consists of : motor - wing no . 1 gages 1617 , motor - wing no . 2 gages 1618 , motor - wing no . 3 gages 1619 , and motor - wing no . 4 gages 1620 . motor - wing gages include : power levels , fuel levels , tachometers and temperature levels . cockpit gage window 1610 consists of : cockpit power level gage 1621 and airframe power level gage 1622 . arrow in pilot orientation and compass screen 1605 indicates north . illustrates the navigation display assembly . fig3 depicts the navigation display assembly . fig3 depicts the navigation display screen . the navigation display assembly assists the pilot in navigating through airspace . navigation display assembly 0505 consists of : navigation display housing 1702 , navigation display screen 1703 , power button 1704 , communicating led module 0610 and camera 0804 . fig3 depicts the navigation display screen 1703 . 1703 consists of : main navigation window 1705 and flight instruments window 1706 . the information displayed on main navigation window 1705 is shown as transparent overlays . they have different opacity levels for clarity . they are registered at the same scale and the scale can vary ( e . g . from a one mile radius to a five mile radius ). the layers can be turned on and off . layers displayed on main navigation window 1705 include : tracking and orientation layer 1707 , airspace and ground - zone map layer 1708 , satellite image map layer 1709 , weather layer 1710 , downward camera layer 1711 , road and street map layer 1712 , destination points and landing pads layer 1713 , flight path layer 1714 and programmable layer 1715 . layers 1708 , 1709 , 1710 , 1711 and 1715 are not shown in fig3 for clarity . the tracking and orientation layer 1707 depicts and tracks aerial vehicles and their corresponding dynamic warning shields 3406 . they are represented as screen icons : tracking trail 1717 , piloted mga icon 1718 , landing pad icon 1719 , other mga icon 1720 , other aerial vehicle icon 1721 and other aerial vehicle tracking trail 1722 . the tracking and orientation layer 1707 depicts a view scale and compass . flight instruments window 1706 includes : heading indicator 1723 , attitude indicator 1724 , turn coordinator 1725 , altimeter 1726 , air speed indicator 1727 , vertical speed indicator 1728 , gps ground and air coordinates 1729 and ground speed indicator 1730 . 1725 displays barometric and agl measurements . the mga receives and produces electrical power . it receives electrical power from battery / fuel cells arrayed and placed within the middle module located in the airframe and motor - wing apparatuses . the battery is reenergized from electrical current received from recharging stations or from generators , or alternators , associated with motor - wing types having rotating shafts . fuel cells can be recharged from gas ( e . g . hydrogen or natural gas ). the power is conditioned according to the requirements of the assemblies and components being energized . wire harnesses contain the wiring within each apparatus . the cavities within the airframe structure , motor - wing structure and gimbal assembly serve as raceways . the power distribution system is connected amongst the airframe and motor - wings . a disconnect is used when attaching the motor - wings to the airframe . the mga recharges while airborne during docking procedures through the docking assemblies . illustrates the power and distribution system . fig4 depicts the view of the battery / fuel cells in the motor - wing and airframe apparatuses . the power distribution system consists of : battery / fuel cell 0910 and wire harness 0912 . fig1 depicts a section detail through the motorized pivot assembly . it highlights electrical contact ring 0614 that transfers electrical current across the motorized pivot assembly . the type of fuel used in the mga is dependent on the type of engine used in the motor - wing apparatuses . there are two types of fuels used in the mga : petroleum based and non - petroleum based products . petroleum based fuels ( e . g . aviation gasoline or jet fuel ) comply with the engine manufacturer &# 39 ; s specifications . non - petroleum fuels include : electric energy produced from batteries or fuel cells , energy produce directly from gas ( e . g . hydrogen ) or energy produced from liquid or solid propellants . fuel tanks / bladders are arrayed and placed within the airframe middle module and the c - wing middle module . the cavity within the airframe structure and the c - wing structure serve as raceways . fuel lines connect the fuel tanks / bladders and deliver fuel to the engine via fuel pumps . the fuel distribution system is connected amongst the airframe and motor - wings . a fuel line disconnect is used when attaching the motor - wings to the airframe . the fuel pumps are located within the middle module of the c - wings and airframe , and quills . the mga can refuel while airborne during docking procedures through the docking assemblies . illustrates the fuel distribution system . fig4 depicts the view of the fuel tanks / bladders in the motor - wing and airframe apparatuses . the fuel distribution system consists of : fuel tank / bladder 0911 , fuel line 0913 and fuel pump 0914 . lighting systems include general purpose lighting for the cockpit interior and signal lighting . general purpose interior lights are integrated in the motorized pivots along the pilot &# 39 ; s side surface of the gimbal rings . they are controlled from the touch - pad display screen . they act as general illumination and map reading lights . they are dimmable . the light - bracelet assembly acts as the signal light system . it forms the leading edge of the c - wing . it operates automatically when the mga is in operation . light intensity is automatically adjusted according to weather and daylight conditions . the light - bracelet assembly illuminates in different colors and different flashing sequences . it acts as running lights and has a number of display mode functions . illustrates the light - bracelet assembly . fig4 depicts the view of the light - bracelet module . fig4 depicts the top view of the light - bracelet assembly . light - bracelet assembly 1010 consists of : light - bracelet cover 1103 , c - wing access module 1104 , led light module 2002 , white led 2003 , red led 2004 , blue led 2005 , green led 2006 and yellow led 2007 . hues in the visible light spectrum can be produced with these colored lights . there are cameras mounted on the mga that serve a number of functions . first , there are cameras used to assist in video communication . they are located within the cockpit apparatus . second , there are forward , aft and downward cameras used to assist in navigation . they are located on the airframe . third , there are cameras used to assist with docking procedures . they are located above the docking assemblies on the c - wing . fourth , there are cameras used to assist with rescue operations . they are located on the airframe . the camera system is controlled by the pilot via the touch - pad screen located on the seat platform assembly . the computer / navigation system serves a number of functions . first , the computer system processes data using the computer &# 39 ; s operating system . second , it receives commands from the pilot or control station . it processes the input commands and sends calibrated commands to the apparatuses and their respective assemblies &# 39 ; controller . it receives data from the assemblies &# 39 ; sensors , process the data and may resend additional calibrated commands to achieve the desired output . it sends the measured output to the display screens third , it assists in navigation . fourth , it records data and video of the flight operations . the computer is located in the cargo hold underneath the seat platform . the computer interfaces with the pilot via the controls and displays located on the seat platform assembly . there are two communication networks associated with the mga : the external network and the onboard network . the external network carries communications to and from control stations located outside the mga . the mga carries a radio / transponder for external network connections . it is located in the cargo hold underneath the seat platform assembly . the onboard network carries communications to and from apparatuses and assemblies to the computer / navigation system . the information transmitted and received includes voice , video and data . communication is sent and received via led communicating modules . they are located throughout the mga . specifically , they are located on : right hand controller 0511 , left hand controller 0512 , navigation display 0505 , touch - pad display 0506 , accelerator foot pedal 0513 , brake pedal 0514 , airframe 0203 , motor - wing no . 1 0204 , motor - wing no . 2 0205 , motor - wing no . 3 0206 , motor - wing no . 4 0207 and quill bodies 1305 . u . s . pat . no . 8 , 902 , 076 b2 . the mga is a waterborne craft . the amount of water ( its weight ) displaced by hull assembly 0406 and motor - wings 0204 , 0205 , 0206 and 0207 is greater than the weight of the mga . the motor - wings act as outriggers to stabilized the craft on top of the water . this method of manufacturing uses interchangeable modular apparatuses , assemblies and components . they are fitted together and arranged , like building blocks , in numerous ways to construct various mga configurations . these configurations are tailored to accomplish their intended flight missions . the following methods include the number and arrangement of the mga &# 39 ; s assemblies , apparatuses and components . the cockpit apparatus accommodates seating for one or multiple passengers . fig9 depicts seating platform assembly 0404 for the pilot and passenger in a bench seating arrangement . the seating platform can be configured for additional passengers . it can be configured for a back to front seating arrangement . the cockpit apparatus 0202 accommodates one or multiple gimbal ring assemblies . fig4 depicts one gimbal ring 0606 . fig4 depicts two gimbal rings , 0606 and 0605 . fig1 depicts three gimbal rings , 0604 , 0605 and 0606 . the gimbal assembly can be arranged so that each gimbal ring can rotate along a different axis than shown ( e . g . the inner gimbal ring can rotate along the x , y or z axis ). the number and arrangement of airframe modular panels can vary . airframe modules 0902 , 0903 and 0904 and their respective sleeves 0905 , 0906 and 0907 can be arranged and overlapped in a number of configurations . fig2 depicts the airframe modules arranged and overlapped in a staggered configuration . fig4 depicts the airframe modules arranged and overlapped in a stacked configuration . the number of segments around the airframe and c - wing can increase or decrease from what is shown . the number and arrangement of c - wing modules can vary . c - wing modules 1103 , 1105 and 1106 and their respective access and sleeve modules 1104 , 1107 and 1108 can be arranged and overlapped in a number of configurations . fig2 depicts the c - wing modules arranged and overlapped in a staggered configuration . fig4 depicts the airframe modules arranged and overlapped in a stacked configuration . the number of segments around the c - wing can increase or decrease from what is shown . illustrates the number and arrangement of the propeller assembly . fig4 depicts a two propeller assembly . fig4 depicts a four propeller assembly . fig5 depicts a five propeller assembly . fig5 depicts a diagonal arrangement of propeller assemblies in a four motor - wing configuration . fig5 depicts a parallel arrangement of propeller assemblies in a four motor - wing configuration . fig5 depicts a diagonal arrangement of propeller assemblies in a six motor - wing configuration . fig5 depicts a parallel arrangement of propeller assemblies in a six - motor - wing configuration . note : line 2210 represents assemblies rotating in the same direction . additional arrangements include : more than five propellers , more than six propeller assemblies , and alternating clockwise and counter - clockwise propeller assemblies arranged radially . the quill assembly accommodates a number of propulsion systems and landing gear assemblies . illustrates the types of quill and landing gear assemblies . fig3 and fig3 depict propeller propulsion quill assemblies . fig5 depicts a pulse - jet quill assembly . fig5 depicts a rocket quill assembly . fig5 depicts a turbine quill assembly . fig5 depicts a wheel landing gear assembly . fig5 depicts a pad landing gear assembly and fig6 depicts a ball landing gear assembly . u . s . pat . no . 8 , 083 , 494 b2 . the mga accommodates a number of propulsion systems for various hybrid configuration arrangements . illustrates hybrid motor - wing arrangements . fig6 depicts a propeller propulsion petroleum powered quill assembly and a propeller propulsion electric powered quill assembly hybrid configuration arrangement . fig6 depicts a propeller propulsion petroleum powered quill assembly and a turbine quill assembly hybrid configuration arrangement . fig6 depicts a turbine quill assembly and pulse - jet quill assembly hybrid configuration arrangement and fig6 depicts a propeller propulsion electric powered quill assembly and a rocket quill assembly hybrid configuration arrangement . additional hybrid configuration arrangements are possible . the mga accommodates a number of cockpit , airframe and motor - wing apparatuses in multiple configurations . illustrate mga configurations . fig6 depicts one cockpit apparatus , one airframe apparatus and two motor - wing apparatuses and two non - powered quill assemblies . fig6 depicts two cockpit apparatuses , two airframe apparatuses and four motor - wing apparatuses . fig6 depicts one cockpit apparatus , two cargo container apparatuses , three airframe apparatuses and six motor - wing apparatuses . fig6 depicts two cockpit apparatuses , two airframe apparatuses , four non - powered quill assemblies and one motor - wing apparatus with a counter - rotating propeller quill . additional mga configurations are possible . the mga is controlled by the pilot using the fly - by - light control system or from a remote control station . the mga carries a radio / transponder for communications and receiving commands remotely . illustrates a view of control stations locations and the diagram of the fly - by - light wireless control system . fig6 depicts signals sent and received from control stations located on the land , sea , air , and space . control stations include : mga 0102 , satellite 2703 , aerial vehicle 2704 , building 2705 , waterborne craft 2706 , automobile 2707 , person 2708 , and mga fleet carrier 2709 . the pilot uses conductive wire and wireless control systems to control and maneuver the mga . the conductive wire system uses an electronic interface . the wireless system replaces some of the conductive wire electronic interface with a wireless led electronic interface . fig7 depicts the logic diagram of the fly - by - light wireless control system . it high lights the possible combinations of the onboard conductive wire and wireless communication systems . the pilot input controllers and machine controllers , and their locations , are illustrated and described . they comprise the fly - by light control system . the direction of data and telemetry flow is depicted by leader lines and arrows . conductive wire control systems are depicted by continuous leader lines and wireless systems are depicted by broken leader lines . commands made by the pilot via input controls 2710 and the output is shown on cockpit displays 2711 via computer system 2712 . the computer system 2712 analyzes and calibrates the commands . the calibrated commands are then transmitted to controller 2713 . the controller transmits those commands to apparatuses , assemblies or components 2714 for action , to achieve the desired output . data is received and measured by sensor 2715 . measured data is sent to computer system 2712 . the computer system 2712 analyzes the measured data and may send additional commands to controller 2713 for further action , to achieve the desired output . the computer system 2712 sends the output results to cockpit displays 2711 . sensor 2715 includes measuring instruments : thermometer , accelerometer , gyroscope , counter , tachometer , altimeter , compass , power meter and power level . each apparatus 0202 , 0203 , 0204 , 0205 , 0206 and 0207 incorporates a computer system capable of flying and navigating the mga . the mga &# 39 ; s computer systems are ranked . the master computer / navigation system 0515 is located in the seat platform assembly 0404 . other ranked computer systems are located throughout the mga . computer systems are ranked in hierarchical order with the master computer / navigation system 0515 located in the cockpit apparatus 0202 . the ranking order and their locations are as follows : airframe 0203 , motor - wing no . 1 0204 , motor - wing no . 2 0205 , motor - wing no . 3 0206 and motor - wing no . 4 0207 . in the event of a failure of the master computer / navigation system the next in rank computer system automatically takes control of the mga . the intelligent flight control system allows the mga to perform functions with or without the pilot &# 39 ; s input . the intelligent flight control system is used to automatically stabilize the mga and prevent the operation of the mga outside its performance envelop . the mga uses an intelligent flight control system to compensate for mga damage during flight . it automatically compensates for loss of engines , loss of flight surfaces or other avionic systems . when docking , the intelligent flight control system of one mga is transferred to the other . the connected mgas act as one apparatus . the mga uses radio frequency or infrared light communications as the onboard wireless control system . the pilot uses controllers and displays to interface with the computer system to control and maneuver the mga . the pilot may elect to operate the mga in automatic or manual mode . fig7 depicts the pilot interface flight control diagram . it includes : startup , mga flight controls and gimbal assembly controls . illustrates the pilot interface flight controls . drawing 29 : illustrates launch , vertical flight , hovering flight , forward flight and horizontal flight . drawing 30 : illustrates maneuvers in horizontal flight . the pilot initiates startup by pressing power button 1704 . the master computer / navigation system 0515 activates and requests the pilot and the vehicle identification . the mga will not operate until the pilot &# 39 ; s license is verified to be valid and the pilot is an authorized operator of the mga . after identification authentication the computer / navigation system 0515 powers up the apparatuses , assemblies and components . it conducts a systems check to verify the mga is cleared for flight operations . the computer system requests a flight plan . the pilot selects the computer operating sub - window 1611 and calls up the road and street maps . the pilot selects the destination and the master computer / navigation system 0515 automatically files a flight plan to the central control having jurisdiction of the airspace . the flight plan may be altered during flight . the mga automatic modes include : autopilot mode , touch - and - go mode and flight transition mode . by pressing the autopilot button 1510 during flight , the mga will continue on course according to the flight plan . by pressing the touch - and - go button 1512 while on the ground , the mga will automatically launch , follow the flight plan and land at the destination . by pressing the flight transition button 1509 during flight , the mga will automatically transition in and out of forward and horizontal flight . the mga manual mode includes : launch mode , vertical flight mode , hovering flight mode , docking mode , forward flight mode , horizontal flight mode and air breaking mode . is engaged by depressing accelerator pedal 0513 . motor - wings 0204 , 0205 , 0206 and 0207 increase their speed providing thrust to launch the mga off the ground as depicted in fig7 . is engaged by depressing and releasing accelerator pedal 0513 . the mga will move up and down as depicted in fig7 . is engaged by pushing hovering button 1519 the mga will move in and out of hovering flight as depicted in fig7 . is engaged by pressing and releasing docking button 1513 , the mga will engage and disengage electromagnet 1204 associated with male docking assembly 1004 and female docking assembly 1005 for contact formation as depicted in fig1 . is engaged by moving right hand rollerball 1502 forwards or backwards , the mga will correspondingly tilt , moving it forwards or backwards as depicted in fig7 ; by moving 1502 sideways , left or right , the mga will correspondingly tilt , moving it right or left as depicted in fig7 ; by rotating 1502 clockwise or counter - clockwise , the mga will correspondingly rotate around seat platform assembly 0404 . while transitioning from forward flight to horizontal flight , as depicted in fig7 , horizontal flight mode is automatically engaged . by moving right hand rollerball 1502 forwards or backwards , ailerons 1009 will correspondingly deploy moving the mga up or down in pitch as depicted in fig7 and 78 respectively ; by moving 1502 sideways , left or right , ailerons 1009 will correspondingly deploy turning the mga left or right in roll as depicted in fig7 and 76 respectively . is engaged by depressing air brake 0514 , the mga will deploy gills 1003 slowing it down as depicted in fig7 . the gimbal assembly automatic mode includes : level position mode , horizontal flight start position mode and ground start position mode . is engaged by pressing level button 1514 , seat platform assembly 0404 will move in and out of the position level to the ground . is engaged by pressing horizontal flight start position button 1505 , seat platform assembly 0404 will move in and out of the horizontal flight position as depicted in fig1 . is engaged by pressing ground start position button 1504 , seat platform assembly 0404 will move in and out of the ground start position as depicted in fig1 . the gimbal assembly manual mode includes : pitch mode , roll mode and yaw mode . is engaged by moving left hand rollerball 1515 forwards or backwards , seat platform assembly 0404 correspondingly moves forwards or backwards in pitch as depicted in fig1 . is engaged by moving 1515 left or right , seat platform assembly 0404 correspondingly moves left or right in roll as depicted in fig1 . is engaged by rotating 1515 clockwise or counter - clockwise , seat platform assembly 0404 correspondingly rotates clockwise or counter - clockwise as depicted in fig1 . the light - bracelet assembly illuminates in different colors and different flashing sequences . it operates in several different light signal modes concurrently . the light bracelet assembly has a number of light signal modes : air - shelf signal mode , tilt signal mode , ascent / descent signal mode , turn signal mode , rotate signal mode , docking signal mode , land signal mode , launch signal mode , warning signal mode and emergency signal mode . fig8 depicts air - shelf signal mode . air - shelf signal mode functions concurrently with other signal modes . all led light modules 2002 within light bracelet assembly 1010 illuminate in the color of the air - shelf , within air column 3302 , the mga is traveling in . fig8 depicts tilt signal mode . tilt signal mode functions concurrently with air - shelf signal mode and ascent / descent signal mode . light - bracelet assembly 1010 signals the tilt of motor - wing apparatuses 0204 , 0205 , 0206 and 0207 , thus the direction the mga is heading . tilt signal mode works under the principles of a level . it can be understood with the example of a clear plastic tube bended and connected to form a bracelet , and a ball placed inside . when the bracelet is tilted in space , the ball will move and come to rest at the lowest point . if the bracelet is constantly tilting along different axes , the ball will stay in motion . tilt signal mode works similarly using visible lights . light bracelet assembly 1010 replaces the plastic tube and light - ball 3103 replaces the ball . light - ball 3103 illuminates in a unique color when tilt signal mode is engaged . fig8 depicts ascent / descent signal mode . it functions concurrently with air - shelf signal mode , turn signal mode and tilt signal mode . it signals the mga &# 39 ; s ascent or descent through air - shelves , within air column 3302 . here , on either side of light - ball 3103 , two adjacent light modules 2002 illuminate to form air - shelf light - ball set 3104 . air - shelf light - ball set 3104 illuminates in the color of the air - shelf , within air column 3302 the mga is traveling to . they remain alongside light - ball 3103 as it operates . fig8 depicts turn signal mode . turn signal mode functions automatically in horizontal flight and concurrently with air - shelf signal mode and ascent / descent signal mode . turn signal mode functions under the principles of a turn coordinator displaying the roll of the mga relative to the horizon . two sets of different and unique colored led light modules 2002 form a visual light turn coordinator . each led light module 2002 within each set are opposite of one another . the first light - ball set , horizon light - ball set 3204 remains level with the horizon . it illuminates in a unique color . when the motor - wing apparatuses 0204 , 0205 , 0206 and 0207 are flying level to the horizon , the two light - ball sets 3204 and 3205 merge into one light - ball set and illuminates in a unique color . fig8 depicts rotate signal mode . rotate signal mode operates in vertical , hovering , forward and horizontal flight and functions concurrently with air - shelf signal mode , tilt signal mode , ascent / descent signal mode and turn signal mode . it activates when motor - wing apparatuses 0204 , 0205 , 0206 and 0207 rotate around seat platform assembly 0404 . rotate light - ball set 3206 aligns with strut 0308 . 3206 illuminates and flashes in a unique color . fig8 depicts docking signal mode . docking signal mode is engaged when the pilot presses docking button 1513 during docking procedures . docking signal mode includes two light - ball sets : male light - ball set 3207 and female light - ball set 3208 . 3207 and 3208 travel along opposite paths in light - bracelet assembly 1010 starting at opposite sides of their respective docking assemblies 1004 and 1005 . they illuminate in a unique color . each set merges into one light - ball 3103 at docking assemblies 1004 and 1005 and flash multiple times , the sequence repeats . the number of docking light - ball sets 3207 and 3208 activated is directly related to the number of docking assemblies , 1004 and 1005 , engaged in contact formation 4004 . when docking has occurred , light - ball sets 3207 and 3208 remain at docking assemblies 1004 and 1005 respective locations and flash constantly in a unique color . fig8 depicts launch and land signal modes . they activate automatically when the mga is cleared for flight operations on the ground and when mga &# 39 ; s warning shield 3406 contacts landing - zone warning shield 3406 on landing approach . it is also activated automatically in the absents of landing pad 3410 as the mga approaches ground surface 3309 . in land signal mode , light bracelet assembly 1010 illuminates in a unique color ; and launch / land light - ball set 3209 illuminates in a unique color . launch / land light - ball set 3209 includes two led light modules 2002 . each start at opposite sides to one another and travel on a path along the light - bracelet 1010 in opposite directions to one another . the rate of speed they travel increases the closer they come to land . at touch down the light - bracelet 1010 illuminates in a unique color . the reverse order occurs during launch procedures . activates automatically when the mga contacts static or dynamic warning shields 3406 . light - bracelet 1010 illuminates and flashes in a unique color when warning signal mode is engaged . activates automatically when the mga is under a flight emergency . light - bracelet 1010 illuminates and flashes in a unique color when emergency signal mode is engaged . this method organizes airspace for the safe passage of aerial vehicles . it maps : the air column , ground surface , static and dynamic objects and their corresponding shields . in this method , nodes in space are given coordinates using the gps . the nodes can be arranged to define facets that in turn can be combined and arranged to define three dimensional geometries in space . the shapes and sizes of air - shelves , ground zones , static shields and dynamic shields are described and defined by this geometry . they vary according to the areas and objects they surround , and the movement of those objects through space . the coordinates for ground and aerial obstructions and their associated shields are registered on the ema . static obstructions are surveyed . dynamic objects &# 39 ; positions are tracked using cellular communications . natural dynamic obstructions are tracked using radar . their shields are established by the weather authorities and inputted into the ema . the ema is continuously updated . it is accessed by pilots through the internet via cellular communications . reference other publications : aeronautical information manual . fig8 depicts the restricted airspace , unrestricted airspace , warning shields , ground zones and air - shelves within the air column . unrestricted airspace is established by the authorities have jurisdiction over air traffic . it includes : air - shelf n , air - shelf e , air - shelf w , air - shelf s and air shelf x . air - shelves within the air column can be remembered using the acronym “ newsx ”: the “ n ” stands for north , the “ e ” for east , the “ w ” for west , the “ s ” for south and the “ x ” for any direction . each air - zone &# 39 ; s floor and ceiling height vary ; and is directly dependent and equally proportional to the height limits established by unrestricted airspace in a given area . air - shelf n 3303 occupies the air - space above air - shelf e 3304 . its ceiling height is defined by the ceiling height limit of unrestricted airspace less the height of airspace warning shield 3308 . it is reserved for aerial vehicles heading in a northerly direction . it is assigned a unique color that is displayed on light bracelet 1010 while flying through it . air - shelf e : 3304 occupies the air space above air - shelf w 3305 . it is reserved for aerial vehicles heading in an easterly direction . it is assigned a unique color that is displayed on light - bracelet 1010 while flying through it . air - shelf w 3305 occupies the air - space above air - shelf s 3306 . it is reserved for aerial vehicles heading in a westerly direction . it is assigned a unique color that is displayed on light - bracelet 1010 while flying through it . air - shelf s 3306 occupies the air - space above air - shelf x 3307 . it is reserved for aerial vehicles heading in a southerly direction . it is assigned a unique color that is displayed on light - bracelet 1010 while flying through it . air - shelf x 3307 occupies the air space contiguous to ground surface 3309 . it is reserved for aerial vehicles flying in any direction . it is assigned a unique color that is displayed on light - bracelet 1010 while flying through it . fig8 depicts the ground zones within ground surface 3309 . aerial vehicle ground speed while flying over certain ground zones may be restricted . ground zones include : ground zone 1 3310 , ground zone 2 3311 and ground zone 3 3312 . ground zone 1 3310 exists over densely populated metropolitan areas . ground zone 2 3311 exists outside of ground zone 1 3310 over less densely populated areas , suburban areas . ground zone 3 3312 exists outside ground - zone 2 3311 and ground zone 1 3310 . fig8 ; restricted airspace 3301 is a static manmade ground and air obstruction established by the authorities having jurisdiction over air traffic . fig8 ; airspace warning shield 3308 is contiguous to and surrounds restricted airspace 3301 . static shields include warning shields and action shields surrounding manmade and natural ground obstructions . their shape and size vary , and are dependent on the type of obstruction . illustrates examples of warning and action shields surrounding static manmade objects . fig8 depicts warning and action shields surrounding structure 3408 . fig8 depicts warning and action shields surrounding power line 3402 . fig9 depicts warning and action shields surrounding landing pad 3410 . fig9 depicts warning and action shields surrounding landing pad 3410 atop structure 3408 . fig9 depicts warning and action shields surrounding road way 3411 . fig9 depicts warning and action shields surrounding bridge 3412 . illustrates examples of warning and action shields surrounding static natural objects . fig9 depicts warning and action shields surrounding a mountain range , fig9 depicts warning and action shields surrounding a canyon , fig9 depicts warning and action shields surrounding a waterway , fig9 depicts warning and action shields surrounding a forest . illustrates examples of warning and action shields surrounding dynamic manmade objects . fig9 depicts warning and action shields surrounding mga 0102 . fig9 depicts warning and action shields surrounding aerial vehicle 2704 . fig1 depicts warning and action shields surrounding mga carrier 2709 . fig1 depicts warning and action shields surrounding waterborne craft 2706 . fig1 depicts warning and action shields surrounding automobile 2707 . fig1 depicts warning and action shields surrounding train 3606 . illustrates examples of warning and action shields surrounding dynamic natural objects . fig1 depicts warning and action shields surrounding thunderstorm 3704 . fig1 depicts warning and action shields surrounding tornado 3705 . fig1 depicts warning and action shields surrounding fire 3706 . fig1 depicts warning and action shields surrounding volcano 3707 . illustrates the method of navigation . there are two modes of navigation , automatic and manual . the mga will automatically respond and take action to avoid collisions when in flight . whether flying in automatic mode or manual mode the mga will automatically alert the pilot , through the navigation system , and take action to avoid colliding into ema mapped objects . fig1 depicts the launch , flight and land sequences of manual and automatic navigation modes . they include : startup mode , flight plan revision mode , shield contact mode , docking mode , identified landing pad mode and unidentified landing zone mode . manual navigation mode assists the pilot to : orient themselves of their current location and heading , negotiate through air space to destinations , track other aircraft in proximity , avoid other aircraft and adhere to regulations for airspace . the main navigation window 1705 indicates where the mga 0102 , other mgas 1720 and other aircraft 1721 are in airspace . the mga icon 1718 within view scale / compass layer 1716 remains fixed in the center of the main navigation window 1705 . the other layers of information 1707 , 1708 , 1709 , 1710 , 1711 , 1712 , 1713 , 1714 and 1715 are registered to 1705 at the same scale . the pilot may change scales ( e . g ., from a radius 1 mile out to a 5 miles out ). mga icon 1718 within 1707 and tracking trail 1717 illuminate in the color of the air - shelf the mga is flying in and the heading it is on . mga icon 1720 will display its call sign , for identification and communication purposes . tracking trail 1717 is displayed as a line segment that increases in length as the aircraft flies through air space . 1717 illuminates in the color of the airspace it is flying in . in the event that the aircraft has passed through multiple air - shelves , tracking trail 1717 will illuminate in multiple colors corresponding to the air - shelves they have passed through . automatic navigation mode includes : startup mode , touch - and - go mode , autopilot mode , flight plan revision mode , shield contact mode , docking mode , identified landing pad mode and unidentified landing zone mode . startup mode 3801 is engaged when the pilot enters a flight plan into the master computer / navigation system 0515 . 0515 plots a course that is displayed on 1705 and 1607 . when the pilot approves the flight plan , they enter it into 0515 . if the pilot does not approve the flight plan they reenter a new flight plan . the flight plan is sent to the central control station and registered on the ema . the mga is prepared to launch . touch - and - go mode is engaged by pressing touch - and go button on the right hand controller after a flight plan has been approved by the pilot . it will automatically launch the mga , travel through airspace following the approved flight path , avoid ema mapped obstructions and restricted airspace , and land the mga at its destination . autopilot mode is engaged when the pilot presses the autopilot button on the right hand controller . it will bring the mga in line with the approved flight plan and bring the mga to a point where the mga &# 39 ; s warning shield 3406 makes contact with the static or dynamic warning shield 3406 at its destination . flight plan revision mode 3802 is engaged during flight when the pilot wishes to alter the flight path or destination . the pilot reenters a flight plan into the master computer / navigation system 0515 . 0515 plots a course that is displayed on 1705 and 1607 . when the pilot approves the flight plan , they enter it into 0515 . the flight plan is sent to the central control station and registered on the ema . 0515 alters the mga &# 39 ; s course in line with the new flight plan . shield contact mode 3803 is engaged during flight operations when the mga &# 39 ; s warning shield 3406 contacts another static or dynamic warning shield 3406 . the master computer / navigation system 0515 alerts the pilot of the contact through the main navigation window 1705 . when the mga &# 39 ; s action shield 3407 contacts the action shield 3407 of another aerial vehicle , the pilot takes action to avoid collision . in the event that the pilot does not take action the master computer / navigation system 0515 will automatically take action to avoid collision . the pilot or 0515 will return the mga to its flight path . docking mode 3804 is engaged during flight operations when the mga &# 39 ; s warning shield 3406 contacts another mga &# 39 ; s warning shield 3406 . the master computer / navigation system 0515 alerts the pilot of the contact through the main navigation window 1705 . when the mga &# 39 ; s action shield 3407 contacts the action shield 3407 of another mga , the initiating pilot requests permission to dock . if permission is granted the initiating pilot takes action and docking procedures commence . if permission is not granted the initiating pilot returns the mga to its flight path . the pilots agree on the transfer of flight controls to a single master computer / navigation system 0515 . contact formation 4004 is formed . after a period of time , undocking procedures commence and 0515 or the initiating pilot returns the mga to its flight path . identified landing pad mode 3805 is engaged during flight operations when the mga &# 39 ; s warning shield 3406 contacts landing pad 3410 &# 39 ; s warning shield 3406 . the master computer / navigation system 0515 alerts the pilot of the contact through the main navigation window 1705 . when the mga &# 39 ; s action shield 3407 contacts the action shield 3407 of landing pad 3410 the pilot requests permission to land . the pilot enters a passcode that opens the landing pad for the mga . if permission is granted the pilot takes action and landing procedures commence . a control station can land the mga upon pilot &# 39 ; s permission . if permission to land is not granted the pilot enters a new flight plan into the master computer / navigation system 0515 and moves the mga onto its new flight path . unidentified landing mode 3806 is engaged during flight operations when the mga &# 39 ; s warning shield 3406 contacts ground surface 3309 . the master computer / navigation system 0515 alerts the pilot of the contact through the main navigation window 1705 . when the mga &# 39 ; s action shield 3407 contacts ground surface 3309 the pilot takes action and landing procedures commence . if the pilot does not take action the master computer / navigation system 0515 will land the mga . navigation window 3d mode is engaged through the touch - pad display . it takes the layers displayed on the main navigation window 1705 and renders them in three dimensions . the layers include : tracking and orientation layer 1707 , airspace and ground zone map layer 1708 , satellite image map layer 1709 , weather layer 1710 , downward camera layer 1711 , road and street map layer 1712 , destination points and landing pads layer 1713 , flight plan / flight course layer 1714 , and programmable layer 1715 . the mga can conduct a number of flight operations and flight missions . the mga can launch and land from the ground , water , and static and mobile platforms . drawing 39 : illustrates the launch and land venues . drawing 40 and 41 : illustrate flight operations . drawing 42 : illustrates flight operation missions . fig1 depicts the mga 0102 land and launch from flat ground surface 3309 . fig1 depicts 0102 land and launch from sloped ground surface 3909 . fig1 depicts 0102 land and launch from uneven ground surface 3909 . fig1 depicts 0102 land and launch from between structures 3409 . fig1 depicts 0102 land and launch from between trees 3905 . in this event , 0102 is equipped with lower safety grate assembly 1405 . fig1 depicts 0102 land and launch from waterway 3506 . fig1 depicts 0102 land , float and launch from trepid waterway 3506 . fig1 depicts 0102 overturning on wave 4005 . fig1 depicts 0102 overturned and afloat on waterway 3506 . note : seat platform assembly 0404 is in the ground start position . in this event , the mga acts as a life boat . fig1 depicts 0102 in contact formation with multiple mgas . fig1 depicts 0102 conducting flight operations off mobile land platform 4103 . fig1 depicts 0102 conducting flight operations off mobile waterborne platform 4104 . fig1 depicts 0102 conducting flight operations off mobile airborne platform 4105 . fig1 depicts 0102 in a rescue mission where cable 4205 is lowered , from wench assembly 0803 , to flat ground surface 3309 or waterway surface 3506 and lifts person 2708 to safety . fig1 depicts 0102 in a ledge rescue mission where the motor - wing apparatus 0204 touches ledge 4206 and person 2708 climbs onto upper safety grate 1405 to safety . fig1 depicts a rescue mission where 0102 lands on waterway 3506 and person 2708 climbs onto upper safety grate assembly 1405 to safety . fig1 depicts 0102 in a hauling mission where cables 4205 , from wench assemblies 0803 , are attached to cargo container 4207 and carried to a destination . fig1 depicts 0102 in an in - flight emergency where parachute 4208 is deployed . the mga is a tactical systems platform for weapons , rescue , supply , reconnaissance and surveillance . the mga works in concert with the mga carrier in a strategic role .