Zachary M Swanson

Title: Zachary M. Swanson: Fueling and Effector Design Innovations

Introduction

Zachary M. Swanson is an inventor based in Tucson, Arizona, whose patent work includes technologies for liquid-fuel management and expandable effectors. He is associated with Raytheon Company and is named on 2 patents.

Latest Patents

Swanson’s patent portfolio includes a self-contained fueling station designed to work with an external fuel tank. The system transfers liquid fuel in both directions to maintain storage pressure, raise the tank to operational pressure, and return it to storage pressure. Its components include an internal fuel tank, a fuel expansion accumulator, a float valve, a bidirectional pump, and multiple relief valves. The external tank can have either a fixed or expandable volume.

Another invention, a liquid-fueled extending effector, uses an expandable fuel volume that lengthens as it is filled from an external source. This expansion also moves a module forward or aft, extending the effector’s overall length. The design aims to improve aerodynamics and range without requiring changes to existing storage, transport, or launch infrastructure. Potential applications include missiles, submunitions, UAVs, and drones, with the airframe potentially forming part of the main body, wing, or rotor.

Career Highlights

Swanson’s disclosed inventions address practical design challenges in fuel transfer, pressure management, and effector configuration. His work connects liquid-fuel systems with adaptable platforms intended to operate within existing infrastructure.

Collaborations

Swanson’s listed coworkers include Grant A. Sweer and Christopher P. Owan. His association with Raytheon Company provides the organizational context for his patent work.

Conclusion

Zachary M. Swanson’s two patents describe approaches to managing fuel pressure and extending liquid-fueled effectors, with an emphasis on performance and compatibility with existing systems.