Location History:
- Ladue, MO (US) (1981)
- Las Vegas, NV (US) (2020)
- St. Louis, MO (US) (1995 - 2021)
Company Filing History:
9 out of 9 
7 out of 7 
1 out of 61 Years Active: 1981-2021
Title: William Randall McDonnell: A Pioneer in Asymmetric Aircraft Innovations
Introduction: William Randall McDonnell is a distinguished inventor based in St. Louis, MO. With an impressive portfolio of 20 patents, he has significantly contributed to the field of aerospace technology, particularly with his innovations related to aircraft design and recovery systems.
Latest Patents: Among McDonnell's latest inventions are revolutionary designs aimed at enhancing the performance and efficiency of asymmetric aircraft. One of his notable patents is for an asymmetric aircraft capable of operating from small ships. This aircraft can be efficiently stored in high-density configurations, accommodating three or more units within a single helicopter hangar without the need for traditional landing gear or wing folding. Utilizing innovative dollies, similar to circuit boards in a computer, these aircraft can slide in and out of the hangar, while a large towed parafoil facilitates their launch and recovery.
Another significant patent involves a rocket landing system, where a generally vertical rocket is designed to fly horizontally into a recovery line suspended between towers of a catamaran landing ship. The system incorporates high-speed winches strategically placed near or atop the towers, allowing for rapid retraction or release of the recovery line. This invention presents a more reliable mechanism for landing rockets, reducing weight, cost, and complexity compared to previous landing methods.
Career Highlights: Throughout his career, McDonnell has contributed to various projects and advancements in aerospace technology. He has been associated with companies such as Advanced Aerospace Technologies, Inc. and Advanced Product Development, LLC, where he applied his expertise to innovate and improve aircraft systems.
Collaborations: McDonnell has collaborated with noteworthy individuals in the industry, including colleagues Charles H. Baker and John W. Rutherford. These professional partnerships have played a pivotal role in the development of his groundbreaking inventions, facilitating the exchange of ideas and expertise essential for high-level innovation.
Conclusion: William Randall McDonnell's contributions to aerospace technology through his patents exemplify his innovative spirit and commitment to enhancing flight systems. His work in asymmetric aircraft and rocket landing mechanisms marks him as a key figure in the ever-evolving field of aviation, inspiring future generations of inventors and engineers.
Inventor’s Patent Attorneys refers to legal professionals with specialized expertise in representing inventors throughout the patent process. These attorneys assist inventors in navigating the complexities of patent law, including filing patent applications, conducting patent searches, and protecting intellectual property rights. They play a crucial role in helping inventors secure patents for their innovative creations.