Systems and methods for vertical takeoff and landing aircraft downwash mitigation and energy recapture
The FATO surface system addresses energy and noise challenges of VTOL aircraft by redirecting and capturing downwash as outwash for electricity generation, improving operational efficiency and compliance with regulatory limits.
WO2026039197A2 Publication Date: 2026-02-19ARCHER AVIATION INC
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Patent Information
- Application Number
- PCT/US2025/040062
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2024-07-31
- Filing Date
- 2025-07-31
- Publication Date
- 2026-02-19
AI Technical Summary
Technical Problem
Vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft, such as electric aircraft, require significant energy for takeoff and landing due to large thrust demands, leading to noise and airspeed disruptions at landing sites, which can exceed regulatory limits and counteract environmental benefits.
Method used
A FATO surface system with a plateau and vented floor grate redirects downwash as outwash, capturing it with turbines to generate electricity, reducing noise and airspeed while maintaining aircraft stability and efficiency.
Benefits of technology
The system effectively mitigates noise and airspeed disruptions while recapturing energy for reuse, enhancing the environmental and economic viability of VTOL operations.
✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.
Abstract
A final approach and takeoff (FATO) surface for a VTOL aircraft redirects downwash as outwash and may capture outwash from the VTOL aircraft to generate electricity. The FATO surface system may include a central solid plateau configured to capture downwash from the VTOL aircraft to enhance a ground effect for optimal stabilization during takeoff and landing. A floor grate surrounding the plateau may allow outwash to pass through to a subsurface where the outwash is channeled to exhausts or at least one turbine for generating electricity from the outwash. Redirecting the downwash to outwash reduces undesirable effects such as noise and airspeed associated with the VTOL aircraft. The electricity may be used to recharge the VTOL, electric vehicles parked at a vertiport of the FATO surface system, may be used by a building at the vertiport, or may be delivered to a local power grid.
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