Electric VTOL Aircraft

Abstract

An electric and hybrid Vertical-Take Off and Landing (“VTOL”) aircraft is disclosed comprising a plurality of small Electric Ducted Fans (“EDFs”) of various sizes and orientations. The thrust of each fixed EDF is individually controlled by modulation of motor power by one or more onboard microcomputers connected to a plurality of onboard laser distance measuring sensors, at least three onboard three-axis accelerometers and at least one GPS thereby allowing extremely precise and safe VTOL operation. The aircraft may be employed to allow robotic and passenger vehicles to transition extremely quickly between normal linear flight and VTOL and tb operate in extreme and gusty conditions.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13 / 257,810 filed Sep. 20, 2011, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,096,314 which represents a National Stage application of PCT / GB2010 / 000520 entitled “Electric VTOL Aircraft” filed Mar. 22, 2010, pending.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention relates to the field of electric aviation and in particular to the stable Vertical Take-Off and Landing (“VTOL”) capability of flying platforms and vehicles and to the controlled transition from VTOL to linear flight.[0003]Various groups are currently involved in producing electric aeroplanes although the technology is still in its infancy.[0004]Manned electric aircraft trace their history to the French Dirigible, La France, which flew in 1884 a distance of five miles in 23 minutes powered by a 7.5 horsepower electric motor and Chromium Chloride batteries.[0005]On Jul. 16, 2006 the Tokyo Institute of Technology flew a full-sized...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes an aircraft technology that uses multiple small fans to achieve better thrust control. These fans have a fast response time, which eliminates the need for a complex system of vanes to control the airflow. Additionally, the creation of one or more first vanes at the outlet of the fans helps reduce the net angular momentum of each fan, further improving efficiency. Overall, this technology creates a more efficient and controllable aircraft.

Problems solved by technology

However, many are extremely complex and costly aircraft.

However, the flight stability and safety of current ducted-fan VTOL vehicles has unfortunately much to be desired.

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