Aircraft

Abstract

The utility model relates to an aircraft which comprises at least one propulsion assembly, and the propulsion assembly comprises at least one electric motor (42); a transmission system (44); -at least one coupling module (58) comprising a flywheel (64) interposed between an inner shaft (60) and an outer shaft (62) coupled to an output shaft (48) of the electric motor (42) and an input shaft (52) of the drivetrain (44) by a first coupling mechanism (80) and a second coupling mechanism, at least one of the first coupling mechanism (80) and the second coupling mechanism comprising an angle gear set (84); -at least one hollow intermediate element (56) in which the output shaft (48) of the electric motor (42), the input shaft (52) of the transmission system (44) and the inner shaft (60) and the outer shaft (62) of the coupling module (58) are positioned at least partially. This solution simplifies the assembly and disassembly of the coupling module (58).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to a propulsion assembly including at least one motorization device and a transmission system connected via an external linkage system, and also to an aircraft including such a propulsion assembly. Background Technology

[0002] according to Figure 1 In one embodiment seen in the diagram, the aircraft 10 includes a fuselage 12, at least one wing 14 connected to the fuselage 12, and a propulsion assembly 16 connected to the wing 14 and arranged on both sides of the fuselage 12. For example... Figure 2 and Figure 3 As illustrated, each propulsion assembly 16 includes a propeller 18 having a rotation axis A18.

[0003] In the following description, the longitudinal direction is parallel to the axis of rotation A18 of propeller 18. The terms "front" and "rear" refer to the direction of airflow relative to the aircraft in flight, where air flows longitudinally from front to rear.

[0004] The electric propulsion assembly includes multiple electric motors 20 and a transmission system 22, such as a gearbox, which is configured to connect the electric motors 20 to the propeller 18.

[0005] like Figure 3 As shown, the transmission system 22 includes: a first housing 24 having a front wall F24 facing the propeller 18 and a rear wall F24' to which the electric motor 20 is attached in the longitudinal direction; and at least one transmission 26 positioned in the first housing 24, the transmission 26 having at least one input 28 for each electric motor 20 and an output 30 in the form of an output shaft passing through the front wall F24 to be coupled to the propeller 18.

[0006] Each electric motor 20 has: a second housing 32 including a support surface F32 fixed against the rear wall F24' of the first housing 24; and an output shaft 34 protruding relative to the support surface F32 and passing through the rear wall F24' of the first housing 24. The output shaft 34 is connected to an input section 28 of the transmission system 22 via a coupling system 36 positioned in the first housing 24 of the transmission system 22.

[0007] According to one embodiment, each coupling system 36 includes a flywheel configured to be in a coupled state and a disconnected state. In the coupled state, the output shaft 34 of the corresponding electric motor 20 is rotatably coupled to the transmission system 26 of the transmission system 22 and transmits rotational motion to the transmission system 26. For example, in the event of an accident, in the disconnected state, the output shaft 34 of the corresponding electric motor 20 is no longer coupled to the transmission system 26 of the transmission system 22 and no longer transmits any rotational motion to the transmission system 26 of the transmission system 22.

[0008] In this way, if the electric motor 20 is no longer in operation and its output shaft 34 is prevented from rotating, the coupling system 36 allows the electric motor 20 to be isolated from the drive system 26, which remains in operation and transmits the rotational motion of the other electric motor 20 to the propeller 18.

[0009] The coupling system 36 requires more frequent maintenance compared to other components of the transmission system 22. For each coupling system in the coupling system 36, the transmission system 22 must be removed, which involves disassembling the electric motor 20, and the housing 24 of the transmission system 22 must be opened to access the coupling system 36. These different stages are relatively lengthy, cumbersome, and expensive.

[0010] To overcome this drawback, document FR3139554 proposes a propulsion assembly 16 with an offset coupling system 36'. According to... Figure 4 In one embodiment of the document seen in the literature, each electric motor 20 has an output shaft 34' positioned on a rear face of the electric motor 20 opposite to the front face of the electric motor 20 that connects to the transmission system 22. The output shaft 34' is hollow and configured to accommodate a coupling system 36'. The coupling system 36' further includes:

[0011] - Flywheel 36.1', flywheel 36.1' has a first part and a second part, the first part being connected to the output shaft 34' of electric motor 20.

[0012] - Connecting shaft 36.2' passes through electric motor 20 and connects the second part of flywheel 36.1' and input part 28' of transmission system 22.

[0013] Because the coupling system 36' is offset from the transmission system 22 and located on the rear surface of the electric motor 20, the coupling system 36' is accessible, eliminating the need to remove and disassemble the transmission system for maintenance operations on the coupling system.

[0014] However, this solution is not optimal because the coupling system 36' includes a coupling shaft 36.2' that passes through the electric motor 20, requiring modifications to the electric motor 20. Utility Model Content

[0015] The present invention aims to overcome some or all of the shortcomings of the prior art.

[0016] To achieve this effect, the subject of this utility model is an aircraft comprising at least one propulsion assembly, the propulsion assembly comprising: a propulsion propeller; at least one electric motor having an output shaft and a first pivot axis; at least one fuel cell supplying electricity to the at least one electric motor; a transmission system configured to connect the electric motor to the propulsion propeller, the transmission system having an input shaft and a second pivot axis; and at least one coupling module connecting the output shaft of the electric motor and the input shaft of the transmission system; the coupling module comprising: an inner shaft and an outer shaft and a flywheel inserted between the inner shaft and the outer shaft, the inner shaft and the outer shaft being coaxial, spaced apart, and each having a first end and a common third pivot axis.

[0017] According to this utility model, the propulsion assembly includes: at least one hollow intermediate element, in which the output shaft of an electric motor, the input shaft of a transmission system, and the inner and outer shafts of a connecting module are at least partially located; a first connecting mechanism connecting the inner shaft and the first element in the output shaft of the electric motor and the input shaft of the transmission system; and a second connecting mechanism connecting the outer shaft and a second element in the output shaft of the electric motor and the input shaft of the transmission system that is different from the first element, wherein at least one of the first and second connecting mechanisms includes a set of angular gears.

[0018] This solution can be implemented without modifying the drive system and the internal components of the electric motor, and allows for quick and easy disassembly or replacement of the coupling module without disassembling the electric motor and / or drive system, saving time in maintaining the coupling module.

[0019] According to another feature, the coupling module includes: a housing configured to accommodate an inner shaft, an outer shaft, and a flywheel; and a first releasable connector connecting the housing and the hollow intermediate element.

[0020] According to one feature, the housing includes:

[0021] - A tubular body extending between a first end and a second end, the first end being open and oriented toward the hollow central element.

[0022] - A cover that is configured to close the second end and is connected to the body via a second releasable connector.

[0023] According to another feature, the connection module includes: at least one rotary guide system connecting the outer shaft and the third housing; and a set of stops for stopping the translation of the outer shaft and the third housing relative to each other in a direction parallel to the third pivot axis.

[0024] According to another feature, the connecting module includes at least one blocking element for stopping the translation of the first element connected to the inner shaft in the inner shaft, as well as the output shaft of the electric motor and the input shaft of the transmission system, in a direction parallel to the third pivot axis.

[0025] According to another feature, the third pivot axis of the connecting module and the first or second pivot axis of the first element connected to the inner shaft in the output shaft and input shaft are aligned. Additionally, the first connecting mechanism is configured to fix the inner shaft and the first element in the output shaft and input shaft to prevent rotation relative to each other.

[0026] According to another feature, the first element connected to the inner shaft in the output shaft of the electric motor and the input shaft of the transmission system includes a receiving portion configured to receive a first end of the inner shaft.

[0027] According to another feature, the inner shaft is hollow. Additionally, the blocking element is an assembly screw comprising a head abutting against the inner shaft support and a shank housed within the inner shaft. The shank has a threaded end configured to screw into a threaded hole located in a receptacle of a first element connected to the inner shaft in both the output and input shafts.

[0028] According to another feature, the third pivot axis of the coupling module is perpendicular to the first pivot axis of the output shaft of the electric motor and the second pivot axis of the input shaft of the transmission system. Additionally, the first coupling mechanism includes a first angular gear set comprising: a first bevel gear attached to a first end of an inner shaft; and a second bevel gear attached to a first element in the output shaft of the electric motor and the input shaft of the transmission system connected to the inner shaft, the first and second bevel gears being configured to engage and mesh with each other.

[0029] According to another feature, the blocking element is a stop that is inserted on one hand between the third housing and the inner shaft and / or on the other hand between the third housing and the first bevel gear attached to the inner shaft, the stop being configured to fix the inner shaft relative to the third housing such that the first bevel gear and the second bevel gear engage with each other.

[0030] According to another feature, the second coupling mechanism includes a second angular gear set, which includes: a third bevel gear attached to an outer shaft; and a fourth bevel gear attached to a second element connected to the outer shaft in the output shaft of the electric motor and the input shaft of the transmission system, the third bevel gear and the fourth bevel gear being configured to engage and mesh with each other.

[0031] According to the first variant, the hollow intermediate element is separate from the electric motor and transmission system.

[0032] According to another variation, the hollow intermediate element forms a single part together with the electric motor or transmission system.

[0033] The subject of this invention also includes an aircraft comprising at least one propulsion component according to one of the foregoing features. Attached Figure Description

[0034] Other features and advantages will become apparent from the following description of the present invention, which is provided by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0035] - Figure 1 This is a side view of the aircraft.

[0036] - Figure 2 This is a schematic side view illustrating an electric propulsion assembly according to a prior art embodiment.

[0037] - Figure 3 This is a schematic cross-section illustrating the transmission system and electric motor of a propulsion assembly according to a prior art embodiment.

[0038] - Figure 4 This is a schematic cross-section illustrating the transmission system and electric motor of a propulsion assembly according to another embodiment of the prior art.

[0039] - Figure 5 This is a schematic cross-section showing an electric motor and a transmission system connected by a connecting module according to an embodiment of the present invention. The connecting module is in an assembled state.

[0040] - Figure 6 This is a schematic cross-section showing an electric motor and transmission system connected by a connecting module according to an embodiment of the present invention, with the connecting module in a detached state.

[0041] - Figure 7 This is a schematic cross-section showing an electric motor and a transmission system connected by a coupling module, according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] - Figure 8This is a schematic cross-section showing an electric motor and a transmission system connected by a coupling module, according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] - Figure 9 This is a schematic cross-section showing an electric motor and a transmission system connected by a coupling module, according to another embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0044] according to Figure 5 and Figure 9 In the embodiment shown, the electric propulsion assembly 40 includes at least one electric motor 42 and a transmission system 44, such as a gearbox, configured to connect the electric motor 42 to a propulsion system, such as a propeller. The at least one electric motor 42 is powered by at least one fuel cell 41, which is located on the aircraft, for example in the fuselage 12, in the wing 14, or in the propulsion assembly 40.

[0045] According to one application, the aircraft includes at least one such propulsion component 40. Of course, the present invention is not limited to this application.

[0046] Each electric motor 42 includes: a first housing 46 having a first front face 46.1; and an output shaft 48 having a first pivot axis A48, the output shaft 48 being connected to the first housing 46 via a pivotal connector projecting from the first front face 46. According to one arrangement, the first front face 46.1 is substantially perpendicular to the first pivot axis A48. The output shaft 48 has a free end 48.1 spaced apart from the first front face 46.1.

[0047] Each transmission system 44 includes: a second housing 50 having a second front face 50.1; and an input shaft 52 having a second pivot axis A52, the input shaft 52 being connected to the second housing 50 via a pivotal connector projecting from the second front face 50.1. According to one arrangement, the second front face 50.1 is substantially perpendicular to the second pivot axis A52. The input shaft 52 has a free end 52.1 spaced apart from the second front face 50.1.

[0048] The electric motor 42 and the transmission system 44 are immovable relative to each other.

[0049] according to Figure 8 and Figure 9In the first arrangement seen, the electric motor 42 and the transmission system 44 are connected to a single hollow intermediate support 54 by fasteners. The hollow intermediate support 54 is separate from the electric motor 42 and the transmission system 44. According to one embodiment, the first pivot axis A48 and the second pivot axis A52 are substantially parallel to each other. Furthermore, the hollow intermediate support 54 is a cylindrical tube having axes substantially parallel to the first pivot axis A48 and the second pivot axis A52 and extending between a first open end 54.1 and a second open end 54.2, which are respectively provided with a first flange C54.1 and a second flange C54.2. The electric motor 42 is connected to the first flange C54.1, and the transmission system 44 is connected to the second flange C54.2. According to this embodiment, the output shaft 48 of the electric motor 42 and the input shaft 52 of the transmission system 44 are located inside the hollow intermediate support 54.

[0050] according to Figures 5 to 7 In the second arrangement seen, the electric motor 42 and the transmission system 44 are directly connected to each other. According to one embodiment, the transmission system 44 includes a hollow extension 56 having an opening 56.1 to allow the output shaft 48 of the electric motor 42 to pass through. The electric motor 42 is located outside the hollow extension 56 and connected to the hollow extension 56 around the lateral opening 56.1. According to this embodiment, the output shaft 48 of the electric motor 42 and the input shaft 52 of the transmission system 44 are positioned inside the hollow extension 56.

[0051] Of course, this invention is not limited to these arrangements. Regardless of the arrangement, the propulsion assembly 40 includes a hollow intermediate element, such as a hollow intermediate support 54 or a hollow extension 56, which is attached to the electric motor 42 and the transmission system 44, and the output shaft 48 of the electric motor 42 and the input shaft 52 of the transmission system 44 are at least partially located in the hollow intermediate element.

[0052] according to Figure 8 and Figure 9 In some embodiments seen in the diagram, the hollow intermediate element is separate from the electric motor 42 and the transmission system 44.

[0053] according to Figures 5 to 7 In other embodiments seen in the diagram, the hollow intermediate element forms a single part together with the electric motor 42 or the transmission system 44.

[0054] The propulsion assembly 40 includes at least one coupling module 58 connecting the output shaft 48 of the electric motor 42 and the input shaft 52 of the transmission system 44. Each coupling module 58 includes a coaxial, spaced-apart inner shaft 60 and outer shaft 62, and a flywheel 64 inserted between and connecting the inner shaft 60 and outer shaft 62. The flywheel 64 is configured to be in a coupled state and a disconnected state. In the coupled state, a first shaft of the inner shaft 60 and outer shaft 62 is rotationally coupled to a second shaft of the inner shaft 60 and outer shaft 62, which is different from the first shaft, and rotational motion is transmitted to the second shaft of the inner shaft 60 and outer shaft 62, for example, in the event of an accident. In the disconnected state, the first shaft is no longer coupled to the second shaft and rotational motion is no longer transmitted to the second shaft. The coupling module 58 has a third pivot axis A58 coinciding with the pivot axis of the inner shaft 60 and outer shaft 62. Each of the inner shaft 60 and the outer shaft 62 includes a first end 60.1, 62.1 facing the electric motor 42 and / or the drive system 44, and a second end 60.2, 62.2 opposite to the first end 60.1, 62.1. The outer shaft 62 is hollow to accommodate the inner shaft 60 and the flywheel 64.

[0055] According to one embodiment, the coupling module 58 includes at least one first rotary guide system 66, which connects the inner shaft 60 and the outer shaft 62 and allows the inner shaft 60 and the outer shaft 62 to pivot relative to each other about a third pivot axis A58. According to one configuration, the first rotary guide system 66 includes at least two rolling bearings 66.1, 66.1', positioned on either side of the flywheel 64. The coupling module 58 includes a pair of stops 66.2, 66.2', positioned on either side of the rolling bearings 66.1, 66.1' to stop the translation of the first guide system 66 and the flywheel 64 relative to the outer shaft 62 in a direction parallel to the third pivot axis A58.

[0056] According to one embodiment, the inner shaft 60 has an outer surface S60, which includes the inner track of the flywheel 64, and / or the outer shaft 62 has an inner surface S62, which includes the outer track of the flywheel 64.

[0057] According to one configuration, the coupling module 58 includes a third housing 68 configured to accommodate an inner shaft 60, an outer shaft 62, and a flywheel 64. The third housing 68 includes a tubular and cylindrical body 70 extending between a first end 70.1 and a second end 70.2, the first end 70.1 being open and oriented toward the hollow intermediate elements 54, 56.

[0058] According to one configuration, the second end 70.2 is sealed to protect the inner shaft 60, the outer shaft 62, and the flywheel 64. According to one embodiment, the third housing 68 includes a cover 72 configured to close the second end 70.2, the cover 72 being connected to the body 70 via a second releasable connector 74, such as a plurality of fasteners distributed around the periphery of the cover 72. According to one arrangement, the coupling module 58 includes at least one seal 75 inserted between the body 70 and the cover 72 to provide a sealed connection between the two elements.

[0059] According to one embodiment, the coupling module 58 includes at least one second rotary guide system 76 connecting the outer shaft 62 and the third housing 68, the at least one second rotary guide system 76 being positioned between the outer shaft 62 and the body 70 and allowing the outer shaft 62 and the body 70 to pivot relative to each other about a third pivot axis A58. According to one configuration, the second rotary guide system includes two rolling bearings 76.1, 76.1' positioned close to a first end 70.1 and a second end 70.2 of the body 70. The coupling module 58 includes: a first pair of stops positioned on either side of the rolling bearings 76.1, 76.1' to stop translation of the second guide system 76 relative to the outer shaft 62 in a direction parallel to the third pivot axis A58; and a second pair of stops positioned between the rolling bearings 76.1, 76.1' to stop translation of the second guide system 76 relative to the third housing 68 in a direction parallel to the third pivot axis A58. Typically, the connection module 58 includes a set of stops for stopping the translation of the outer shaft 62 and the third housing 68 relative to each other in a direction parallel to the third pivot axis A58.

[0060] According to one arrangement, the coupling module 58, and more particularly its third housing 68, is connected to the hollow intermediate elements 54, 56 via a first releasable connector 78. According to one embodiment, a first end 70.1 of the body 70 is connected to the hollow intermediate elements 54, 56 via the first releasable connector 78, which includes a plurality of fasteners distributed around the periphery of the first end 70.1. According to one arrangement, the coupling module 58 includes at least one seal 79 inserted between the third housing 68 and the hollow intermediate elements 54, 56 to obtain a sealed connection between the two elements.

[0061] Of course, this invention is not limited to these embodiments for the connecting module 58. Regardless of the embodiment, the propulsion assembly 40 includes at least one hollow intermediate element 54, 56, in which the output shaft 48 of the electric motor 42, the input shaft 52 of the transmission system 44, and the inner shaft 60 and outer shaft 62 of the connecting module 58 are at least partially positioned such that the inner shaft 60 and outer shaft 62 of the connecting module 58 mate with the output shaft 48 of the electric motor 42 and the input shaft 52 of the transmission system 44.

[0062] The propulsion assembly 40 includes: a first coupling mechanism 80 that connects the inner shaft 60 and a first element in the output shaft 48 of the electric motor 42 and the input shaft 52 of the transmission system 44; and a second coupling mechanism 82 that connects the outer shaft 62 and the output shaft 48 of the electric motor 42 and a second element in the input shaft 52 of the transmission system 44 that is different from the first element.

[0063] According to specific features of this utility model, the third pivot axis A58 of the connecting module 58 intersects with at least one of the first pivot axis A48 and the second pivot axis A52. Additionally, at least one of the first connecting mechanism 80 and the second connecting mechanism 82 includes a set of angle gears 84.

[0064] according to Figure 5 and Figure 6 In the first embodiment shown, the third pivot axis A58 of the coupling module 58 is perpendicular to the first pivot axis A48 of the output shaft 48 of the electric motor 42 and aligned with the second pivot axis A52 of the input shaft 52 of the transmission system 44. According to this first embodiment, a first coupling mechanism 80 connects the inner shaft 60 of the coupling module 58 and the input shaft 52 of the transmission system 44. At the free end 52.1 of the input shaft 52, the input shaft 52 includes a receiving portion 86 configured to receive the first end 60.1 of the inner shaft 60. The first coupling mechanism 80 allows the inner shaft 60 to rotate the input shaft 52. According to one configuration, the receiving portion 86 of the input shaft 52 and the first end 60.1 of the inner shaft 60 respectively include a concave spline and a convex spline, the concave spline and the convex spline being configured to engage with each other and allow the input shaft 52 to be driven to rotate by the inner shaft 60.

[0065] According to this first embodiment, the inner shaft 60 is hollow. The coupling module 58 includes at least one blocking element 88 for stopping the translation of the inner shaft 60 and the first element connected to the inner shaft 60 in the output shaft 48 of the electric motor 42 and the input shaft 52 of the transmission system 44 in a direction parallel to the third pivot axis A58. According to one configuration, the blocking element 88 is an assembly screw, which includes: a head 88.1 supported against a second end 60.2 of the inner shaft 60; and a shank 88.2 received in the inner shaft 60 and having a threaded end 88.3 configured to screw into a threaded hole 86.1 provided in a receiving portion 86 of the input shaft 52 of the transmission system 44. This assembly screw allows the translation of the inner shaft 60 and the input shaft 52 in a direction parallel to the second pivot axis A52 to be stopped.

[0066] According to this first embodiment, the first connecting mechanism 80 includes: a first portion, such as a convex spline and a concave spline, which stops the rotation of the inner shaft 60 and the outer shaft 62 relative to each other; and a second portion, such as an assembly screw, which stops the translation of the inner shaft 60 and the input shaft 52. Of course, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. Therefore, the first connecting mechanism 80 may include a single device, such as a transverse pin, for stopping the rotation and translation of the inner shaft 60 and the input shaft 52 relative to each other.

[0067] According to the first embodiment, the second connecting mechanism 82 includes a bevel gear set 84, which includes: a first bevel gear 84.1, such as a crown gear, which is attached to a first end 62.1 of the outer shaft 62; and a second bevel gear 84.2, such as a bevel pinion, which is attached to the output shaft 48 of the electric motor 42. The first bevel gear 84.1 and the second bevel gear 84.2 are configured to cooperate and mesh with each other.

[0068] According to this first embodiment, the transmission system 44 includes a hollow extension 56 having: at least one first surface F56 substantially parallel to the second pivot axis A52 of the input shaft 52 of the transmission system 44, with a first opening 56.1 in the first surface F56; and a second surface F56' substantially perpendicular to the second pivot axis A52 of the input shaft 52 of the transmission system 44, with a second opening 56.2 in the second surface F56'. The first surface F56 is positioned between the second housing 50 of the transmission system 44 and the second surface F56' of the hollow extension 56. Furthermore, the first housing 46 of the electric motor 42 is connected to the hollow extension 56 around the first opening 56.1, and the output shaft 48 of the electric motor 42 passes through the first opening 56.1. The third housing 68 of the coupling module 58 is connected to the hollow extension 56 by means of a fastener 56.3 of the first releasable connector 78 around the second opening 56.2.

[0069] like Figure 6 As shown, the connecting module 58 is disassembled as follows:

[0070] First, the cover 72 is removed by removing the fasteners of the second releasable connector 74.

[0071] Next, remove the fasteners 56.3 of the blocking element 88 and the first releasable connector 78.

[0072] Then, the connection module 58 can be removed.

[0073] The connecting module 58 is reassembled in reverse order, and the seals 75 and 79 are replaced if necessary.

[0074] according to Figure 7 In the second embodiment seen in the diagram, the third pivot axis A58 of the coupling module 58 is aligned with the first pivot axis A48 of the output shaft 48 of the electric motor, and is substantially perpendicular to the second pivot axis A52 of the input shaft 52 of the transmission system 44. According to this second embodiment, the first coupling mechanism 80 connects the inner shaft 60 of the coupling module 58 and the output shaft 48 of the electric motor 42. At the free end 48.1 of the output shaft 48, the output shaft 48 includes a receiving portion 86' configured to receive the first end 60.1 of the inner shaft 60. This can be combined with… Figure 5 and Figure 6 The connection between the inner shaft 60 and the input shaft 52 of the transmission system 44 shown is the same.

[0075] According to the second embodiment, the second connecting mechanism 82 includes a bevel gear set 84, which includes: a first bevel gear 84.1, such as a bevel crown gear, which is attached to a first end 62.1 of the outer shaft 62; and a second bevel gear 84.2, such as a bevel pinion, which is attached to the input shaft 52 of the transmission system 44. The first bevel gear 84.1 and the second bevel gear 84.2 are configured to cooperate and mesh with each other.

[0076] According to this second embodiment, the transmission system 44 includes a hollow extension 56 having: at least one first surface F56 substantially parallel to the second pivot axis A52 of the input shaft 52 of the transmission system 44, with a first opening 56.1 provided in the first surface F56; and a second surface F56' substantially parallel to the second pivot axis A52 of the input shaft 52 of the transmission system 44, with a second opening 56.2 provided in the second surface F56'. Additionally, a first housing 46 of the electric motor 42 is connected to the hollow extension 56, and an output shaft 48 of the electric motor 42 passes through the first opening 56.1. A third housing 68 of the coupling module 58 is connected to the hollow extension 56 by means of a fastener 56.3 of a first releasable connector 78, surrounding the second opening 56.2.

[0077] according to Figure 8 In the third embodiment shown, the electric motor 42 and the transmission system 44 are arranged such that the first pivot axis A48 and the second pivot axis A52 are substantially parallel to each other and aligned. Furthermore, the third pivot axis A58 of the coupling module 58 is substantially perpendicular to the first pivot axis A48 of the output shaft 48 of the electric motor 42 and the second pivot axis A52 of the input shaft 52 of the transmission system 44. According to this third embodiment, the first coupling mechanism 80 includes a first angular gear set 84, which includes: a first bevel gear 84.1 attached to a first end 60.1 of the inner shaft 60; and a second bevel gear 84.2 attached to the input shaft 52 of the transmission system 44. The first bevel gear 84.1 and the second bevel gear 84.2 are configured to engage and mesh with each other. Additionally, the second connecting mechanism 82 includes a second angular gear set 84', which includes: a third bevel gear 84.1', which is attached to the first end 62.1 of the outer shaft 62; and a fourth bevel gear 84.2', which is attached to the output shaft 48 of the electric motor 42. The third bevel gear 84.1' and the fourth bevel gear 84.2' are configured to cooperate and mesh with each other.

[0078] According to a third embodiment, the coupling module 58 includes at least one blocking element 90 for stopping the translation of the inner shaft 60 and the first element connected to the inner shaft 60 in the output shaft 48 of the electric motor 42 and the input shaft 52 of the transmission system 44 in a direction parallel to the third pivot axis A58. According to one configuration, the blocking element 90 is a stop inserted between the third housing 68, more specifically its cover 72, and the inner shaft 60 and / or a first bevel gear 84.1 attached to the first end 60.1 of the inner shaft 60. The stop is configured to fix the inner shaft 60 relative to the third housing 68 such that the first bevel gear 84.1 and the second bevel gear 84.2, respectively attached to the inner shaft 60 and the input shaft 52 of the transmission system 44, engage with each other.

[0079] According to this third embodiment, the propulsion assembly 40 includes a hollow intermediate support member 54, which has: at least one first surface F54, which is substantially perpendicular to a first pivot axis A48 of the output shaft 48 of the electric motor 42, and has a first opening 92.1; a second surface F54', which is substantially parallel to the first surface F54 and perpendicular to a second pivot axis A52 of the input shaft 52 of the transmission system 44, and has a second opening 92.2; and a third surface F54', which is substantially parallel to the first surface F54 and perpendicular to the second pivot axis A52 of the input shaft 52 of the transmission system 44, and has a second opening 92.2; and a third surface F54', which is substantially parallel to the first surface F54 and the second surface F54'. The upper part is vertically positioned between the first surface F54 and the second surface F54', and a third opening 92.3 is provided in the third surface F54". Additionally, the first housing 46 of the electric motor 42 is connected to the hollow intermediate support 54 around the first opening 92.1, and the output shaft 48 of the electric motor 42 passes through the first opening 92.1. The second housing 50 of the transmission system 44 is connected to the hollow intermediate support 54 around the second opening 92.3, and the input shaft 52 of the transmission system 44 passes through the second opening 92.2. The third housing 68 of the connecting module 58 is connected to the hollow intermediate support 54 around the third opening 92.3 by means of fasteners distributed around the third opening 92.3.

[0080] according to Figure 9 In the fourth embodiment shown, the electric motor 42 and the transmission system 44 are arranged such that the first pivot axis A48 and the second pivot axis A52 are substantially parallel to each other and offset from each other. Other elements of the coupling module 58 may be the same as those of the coupling module 58 in the third embodiment.

[0081] In the third and fourth embodiments, the coupling module 58 is removed by removing the fasteners that connect the third housing 68 and the hollow intermediate support 54 of the coupling module 58.

[0082] Regardless of the implementation, the connection module 58 can be quickly and easily disassembled or replaced without disassembling the electric motor 42 and / or the transmission system 44, which saves time in maintaining the connection module 58.

[0083] According to another advantage, the propulsion assembly 40 includes an electric motor 42 and / or a transmission system 44 that are not modified within the first housing 46 and the second housing 50 compared to existing electric motors and / or transmission systems.

Claims

1. An aircraft, characterized in that The aircraft includes at least one propulsion component, the propulsion component comprising: - Propulsion propeller (18). - At least one electric motor (42) having an output shaft (48) and a first pivot axis (A48). - At least one fuel cell (41) supplies electricity to the at least one electric motor (42), - A transmission system (44) configured to connect the electric motor (42) to the propulsion propeller (18), the transmission system (44) having an input shaft (52) and a second pivot axis (A52), and - At least one connecting module (58) connecting the output shaft (48) of the electric motor (42) and the input shaft (52) of the transmission system (44), the connecting module comprising: an inner shaft (60) and an outer shaft (62), the inner shaft (60) and the outer shaft (62) being coaxial, spaced apart and each having a first end and a common third pivot axis (A58); and a flywheel (64) inserted between the inner shaft (60) and the outer shaft (62); wherein the propulsion assembly (40) comprises: at least one hollow intermediate element (54, 56), the output shaft (48) of the electric motor (42), the input shaft (52) of the transmission system (44), and the inner shaft (60) and outer shaft (62) of the connecting module (58). The first coupling mechanism (80) is located at least partially in the hollow intermediate element (54, 56); the first coupling mechanism (80) connects the inner shaft (60) and the output shaft (48) of the electric motor (42) and the input shaft (52) of the transmission system (44) to a first element; and the second coupling mechanism (82) connects the outer shaft (62) and the output shaft (48) of the electric motor (42) and the input shaft (52) of the transmission system (44) to a second element different from the first element, at least one of the first coupling mechanism (80) and the second coupling mechanism (82) comprising a set of angular gears (84).

2. The aircraft of claim 1, wherein, The connection module (58) includes: a housing (68) configured to accommodate the inner shaft (60), the outer shaft (62), and the flywheel (64); and a first releasable connector (78) connecting the housing (68) and the hollow intermediate elements (54, 56).

3. The aircraft of claim 2, wherein, The housing (68) includes: - A tubular body (70) extending between a first end and a second end (70.2), the first end of the body being open and oriented toward the hollow intermediate element (54, 56). - Cover (72), which is configured to close the second end (70.2) and is connected to the body (70) via a second releasable connector (74).

4. The aircraft of any one of claims 2-3, wherein, The connection module (58) includes: at least one rotary guide system (76) connecting the outer shaft (62) and the housing (68); and a set of stops for stopping the translation of the outer shaft (62) and the housing (68) relative to each other in a direction parallel to the third pivot axis (A58).

5. The aircraft of any one of claims 2-3, wherein, The connection module (58) includes at least one blocking element for stopping the translation of the first element connected to the inner shaft (60) in the inner shaft (60), the output shaft (48) of the electric motor (42), and the input shaft (52) of the transmission system (44) in a direction parallel to the third pivot axis (A58).

6. The aircraft of claim 5, wherein, The third pivot axis (A58) of the coupling module (58) and the first pivot axis (A48) or second pivot axis (A52) of the first element of the inner shaft (60) connected to the output shaft (48) and the input shaft (52) are aligned, wherein the first coupling mechanism (80) is configured to fix the inner shaft (60) and the first element of the output shaft (48) and the input shaft (52) to prevent rotation relative to each other.

7. The aircraft of claim 6, wherein, The first element, which is connected to the inner shaft (60) in the output shaft (48) of the electric motor (42) and the input shaft (52) of the transmission system (44), includes a receiving portion (86) configured to receive the first end of the inner shaft (60).

8. The aircraft of claim 7, wherein, The inner shaft (60) is hollow, and the blocking element is an assembly screw comprising a head (88.1) supported against the inner shaft (60) and a shank (88.2) received in the inner shaft (60), the shank (88.2) having a threaded end (88.3) configured to be screwed into a threaded hole (86.1) disposed in the receiving portion (86) of the first element of the inner shaft (60) connected to the output shaft (48) and the input shaft (52).

9. The aircraft of claim 5, wherein, The third pivot axis (A58) of the connecting module (58) is perpendicular to the first pivot axis (A48) of the output shaft (48) of the electric motor (42) and the second pivot axis (A52) of the input shaft (52) of the transmission system, and wherein the first connecting mechanism (80) includes a first angular gear set (84), the first angular gear set (84) including: a first bevel gear (84.1) integral with the first end of the inner shaft (60); and a second bevel gear (84.2) attached to the first element of the output shaft (48) of the electric motor (42) and the input shaft (52) of the transmission system (44) connected to the inner shaft (60), the first bevel gear (84.1) and the second bevel gear (84.2) being configured to engage and mesh with each other.

10. The aircraft of claim 9, wherein, The blocking element is a stop that is inserted on one side between the housing (68) and the inner shaft (60) and / or on the other side between the housing (68) and the first bevel gear (84.1) attached to the inner shaft (60), the stop being configured to fix the inner shaft (60) relative to the housing (68) such that the first bevel gear (84.1) and the second bevel gear (84.2) engage with each other.

11. The aircraft of any of claims 1-3 and 6-10, wherein, The second coupling mechanism (82) includes a second angular gear set (84'), which includes: a third bevel gear (84.1') attached to the outer shaft (62); and a fourth bevel gear (84.2') attached to the second element of the output shaft (48) of the electric motor (42) and the input shaft (52) of the transmission system (44) connected to the outer shaft (62), wherein the third bevel gear (84.1') and the fourth bevel gear (84.2') are configured to engage and mesh with each other.

12. The aircraft of any of claims 1-3 and 6-10, wherein, The hollow intermediate element (54) is separate from the electric motor (42) and the transmission system (44).

13. The aircraft of any of claims 1-3 and 6-10, wherein, The hollow intermediate element (56) is formed as a single part with the electric motor (42) or the transmission system (44).

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