Aerial vehicle utilizing a distributed propulsion system

Abstract

This innovative aerial vehicle utilizes a distributed propulsion system with vertically oriented propulsions for vertical thrust and horizontally oriented propulsor pushers for forward thrust, enclosed within ducts and attached to a versatile airframe. It seamlessly transitions between Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) and Forward-Thrust modes, offering exceptional versatility and performance across various applications.

Description

Aerial Vehicle Utilizing a Distributed Propulsion System

[0001] The instant invention signifies a monumental advance in aerial vehicle technology, specifically addressing the convergence of Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) capabilities and the robust payload handling attributes of multi-rotor designs with the high-speed, extended-range capabilities of fixed-wing architectures. At its core, the invention hinges on the utilization of a distributed propulsion system, which is intricately based on ducted fans, operating in both vertical and horizontal directions. This dual-directional ducted fan propulsion system is instrumental in enabling scalability and substantially elevating the overall efficiency and performance metrics of the propulsion systems integrated into this hybrid aerial vehicle. This innovative combination creates an advanced aerodynamic aerial vehicle.

[0002] The described hybrid aerial vehicle system represents a groundbreaking advancement in aerial technology, characterized by a multitude of advantages. Its seamless transition between VTOL and high-velocity horizontal flight is executed with precision, granting it exceptional maneuverability and access to constrained environments, all while retaining the capacity for rapid, long-range missions. The elimination of runway dependency renders it adaptable to diverse operational settings, encompassing urban landscapes and remote locales alike. This adaptability, intricately intertwined with its inherent technical simplicity and cost-efficiency, firmly establishes it as the paramount choice for a diverse spectrum of applications. In essence, this system redefines the parameters of aerial operations.

[0003] A practical illustration highlighting the impressive adaptability of this invention emerges in its technical utility for transporting logistics to remote and challenging terrains. In a situation where cargo, such as medical supplies, relief materials, or provisions, is needed to reach geographically isolated and demanding locations, delivery must be ensured. Traditional aerial vehicles often grapple with the limitations of inadequate infrastructure and limited operational range, which can hamper their effectiveness in such contexts. In contrast, the innovation exhibits a transformative capacity, facilitated by its seamless transition between VTOL and high-velocity horizontal flight. This unique ability effectively mitigates the challenges posed by constrained infrastructure, ensuring the prompt and efficient delivery of essential goods to these remote and rugged terrains, surpassing the constraints of conventional aerial platforms. Nevertheless, the applications of this innovative aerial vehicle extend far beyond logistics, holding vast technical promise across a multitude of industries and redefining the possibilities in aerial operations.

[0004] The mechanical benefits of this innovation stand out prominently. Through the utilization of ducted fans as opposed to conventional propellers, the system attains superior aerodynamic performance in adverse conditions, and enhanced stability. This alteration significantly diminishes the susceptibility of the aerial vehicle to external factors, ensuring a more consistent and predictable performance. The ducted fan promotes a smoother and more reliable flight experience.

[0005] Importantly, there are no flight control surfaces that typically rely on servo motors, leading to enhanced reliability and reduced maintenance demands. This simplified design reduces potential points of mechanical failure, bolstering the overall robustness and safety of the aerial vehicle. Additionally, the dual-directional ducted fans provide precise control during both vertical and horizontal flight modes, enhancing maneuverability and responsiveness beyond what conventional configurations offer.

[0006] Thus, the instant innovation presents itself to be a hybrid aerial vehicle that merges VTOL capabilities with high-speed, long-range capabilities through a dual-directional ducted fan propulsion system. This innovation offers exceptional maneuverability, access to remote locations, and adaptability, making it ideal for logistics in isolated areas. The ducted fan distributed propulsion enhances aerodynamic performance and reliability, reducing maintenance and mechanical failure risks.

[0007] In the prior art, there is a history of VTOL aircraft designs that have grappled with the challenge of efficiently transitioning between forward horizontal flight and vertical flight modes for take-off and landing. U.S. Patent Number 3,488,018, filed on March 13, 1968, has explored the tilt-rotor approach, including the use of ducted fans that tilt to transition between flight modes. These designs often fell short of achieving optimal propulsion efficiency during transitions. The prior art experimented with tilting vertically or transversely displaced propulsion units, such as in U.S. Patent Number 9,676,479, but this adds difficulties due to airflow disturbances and stability between forward and upward flight, highlighting the ongoing pursuit of more optimal VTOL aircraft systems during transition.

[0008] The instant invention represents a notable improvement over the single-blade helicopter aerial vehicle as seen in U.S. Patent Number 8,070,089. It achieves this by eliminating flight control surfaces and distributing vertical propulsion efficiently. Unlike the single-blade, or dual-blade, designs, this innovation enhances reliability, reduces maintenance, and optimizes thrust distribution during take-off and landing, making it more versatile in transitioning between flight modes.

[0009] Furthermore, the invention significantly improves upon the tail-sitter aerial vehicle design, such as in U.S. Patent Number 11,718,398, by enhancing stability during flight mode transitions. Unlike the tail-sitter design, which requires a nearly 90-degree rotation for vertical-to-horizontal flight and vice-versa, this innovation streamlines the process, ensuring smoother and more controlled transitions due to its low attitude degree shift.

[0010] This invention enhances the multicopter aerial vehicle found in many inventions such as in European Patent Number 3,321,180. It introduces fixed pusher motors for improved stability and increased horizontal speed. Additionally, ducted fans replace propellers, providing better stability in adverse conditions.

[0011] The invention also marks an improvement over the hybrid fixed-wing aerial vehicle outlined in U.S. Patent Number 11,655,023. Its key improvement involves the incorporation of dual fixed pusher motors, ensuring more level flight and increased forward speed. Additionally, flight control surfaces are removed, simplifying the design and enhancing the reliability of the overall system.

[0012] Lastly, the instant invention improves upon European Patent Number 2,738,091's dual pusher motor aerial vehicle. It efficiently distributes vertical thrust using a network of propulsion units, enhancing flight precision and maneuverability. Unlike the centralized systems, this approach ensures more precise flight maneuvers and mission operations.

[0013] The technical problem at hand is the challenge of efficiently transporting payloads and heavy loads at high velocities, a task that traditionally requires complex and power-intensive propulsion systems. Conventional aircraft often struggle to strike the right balance between power efficiency, maneuverability, and reliability, especially when it comes to vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) capabilities. The need for tilting mechanisms in VTOL aircraft adds complexity and maintenance demands, while the reliance on traditional flight control surfaces with servo motors can increase susceptibility to mechanical failures. Additionally, achieving stability and predictability in adverse environmental conditions remains a significant hurdle. This problem highlights the demand for a novel approach to propulsion and aerodynamics, one that can provide consistent, reliable, and efficient performance while accommodating heavy payloads at high speeds.

[0014] The focal point of this invention revolves around the implementation of a distributed propulsion system, which comprises vertically oriented propulsors dedicated to providing vertical thrust and horizontally oriented propulsors tailored for generating high-speed forward thrust. Significantly, all these propulsion units remain immobile, abstaining from using the conventional tilting mechanisms commonly associated with a VTOL aircraft.

[0015] Moreover, these propulsion units adopt the form of ducted fans, representing a substantial contributor to the exceptional aerodynamic performance exhibited by this invention. Noteworthy is the absence of traditional flight control surfaces, a design choice that simplifies the system while concurrently enhancing reliability and diminishing maintenance demands. These mechanical enhancements represent a cornerstone of this invention's foundation. By adopting ducted fans in lieu of conventional propellers, the system achieves superior aerodynamic performance, ensuring steadfast stability during flight, even in the face of adverse environmental conditions.

[0016] This alteration significantly reduces the aerial vehicle's susceptibility to external perturbations, culminating in a more consistent and predictable flight experience. Importantly, the absence of flight control surfaces, which typically rely on servo motors, augments system reliability and concurrently reduces maintenance demands. The streamlined design mitigates potential points of mechanical failure, consequently bolstering the overall robustness and safety profile of the aerial vehicle. Additionally, the dual-directional ducted fans provide precise control during both vertical and horizontal flight modes, elevating maneuverability and responsiveness beyond the capabilities of conventional configurations.

[0017] One of the most prominent advantages intrinsic to this invention is its adaptability to diverse operational environments, encompassing urban landscapes and remote, challenging terrains. This adaptability is facilitated by the absence of the requirement for runways or specialized infrastructure, rendering it exceptionally well-suited for missions conducted in geographically isolated and demanding locales. The applicability of this innovation extends beyond logistical applications, as it holds immense promise across a spectrum of industries, thereby fundamentally reshaping the landscape of aerial operations. The elimination of runway dependency and the capability for rapid, long-range missions position this system as an ideal choice for a wide array of applications.

[0018] The instant invention constitutes an innovative hybrid aerial vehicle system that seamlessly integrates VTOL capabilities with high-speed, long-range attributes through the deployment of a multi-directional ducted fan propulsion system. Featuring fixed vertical propulsion units for vertical thrust and fixed horizontal propulsion units for high-speed forward thrust, this configuration simplifies the system's design while simultaneously enhancing its reliability. The adoption of ducted fans further elevates aerodynamic performance, ensuring stability and efficiency even in challenging conditions. The absence of flight control surfaces reduces mechanical complexity, thereby lowering maintenance requirements and enhancing overall system reliability.

[0019] is a top plan view of the aerial vehicle of this instant invention;

[0020] is a front plan view of the aerial vehicle of this instant invention;

[0021] is an isometric view of the aerial vehicle, showcasing its distributed propulsion system with ducted fans; and

[0022] is an isometric view of the versatile aerial vehicle, displaying its adaptable design and airframe variations tailored to specific applications.

[0023] A detailed description of systems and methods consistent with embodiments of the instant disclosure is provided below. While several embodiments are described, it should be understood that the disclosure is not limited to any one embodiment, but instead encompasses numerous alternatives, modifications, and equivalents.

[0024] The preferred version of this hybrid aerial vehicle showcases a cutting-edge distributed propulsion system comprising vertically oriented propulsors 57 exclusively for vertical thrust and horizontally oriented propulsors 47 designed as ducted fans, meticulously crafted from lightweight and durable materials like aluminum or carbon fiber to significantly enhance aerodynamic efficiency. Serving as the fundamental structure of the vehicle, the airframe 7 is not only robust but also highly adaptable, providing customizable design options that cater to specific applications, as seen in, ensuring versatility across various operational scenarios. To complement its aerial prowess, the vehicle is equipped with adaptable landing gear 24, engineered for stability and versatility, facilitating safe ground operations on diverse terrains, and meeting the specific operational needs of different missions. This comprehensive integration of advanced propulsion technology, customizable airframe design, and adaptable landing gear underscores the vehicle's multifaceted utility.

[0025] As depicted in, the vertically oriented propulsions 57 are an embodiment of precision engineering and aerodynamic excellence.shows the propulsions comprised of fans 11 enclosed within ducts 15. These integral components are securely attached to the vehicle's body via fixed pylons 12, ensuring not only a stable connection but also preventing any untoward rotation of the individual propulsions during critical flight maneuvers. Within these ducts, the fans operate with utmost efficiency, as the confined space not only optimizes aerodynamic performance but also acts as a protective barrier around the rotating fan blades, significantly diminishing the risk of foreign object and debris interference, enhancing the safety and reliability of the vehicle. Further enhancing its aerodynamic prowess, the cones 18 diligently guide incoming airflow, smoothing its path into the ducted fan assembly, thereby reducing turbulence and optimizing overall aerodynamic efficiency. Crucially, outlet guide walls 19 offer precise control over the exhaust airflow from the vertical ducted fans, ensuring efficient and controlled thrust expulsion, thereby contributing to the vehicle's impeccable performance and maneuverability.

[0026] In a detailed examination provided by, the intricacies of the horizontally oriented pusher fan propulsion systems 47 are delved into. The fans 31, encompassed within enclosed ducts 35, are meticulously affixed to the vehicle's structure using fixed pylons 32, which establish a secure and immobile connection to the connecting arm 36 that, in turn, interfaces with the vehicle's body. Notably, cones 38 strategically situated at the duct inlets serve a pivotal role in optimizing airflow dynamics by efficiently guiding incoming air. This action effectively minimizes turbulence and holds the potential for noise reduction, contributing to enhanced aerodynamic performance and a quieter operational profile. Moreover, it's worth noting that the outlet guide wall 39 is integral to the system. This component plays a critical role in governing the egress of exhaust airflow, ensuring precise control and efficient expulsion of thrust.

[0027] In the best mode for carrying out this innovative hybrid aerial vehicle, the vehicle's carbon fiber airframe 7 serves as the sturdy foundation, supporting various customizable payloads depending on specific applications, thus enhancing its versatility across diverse operational scenarios. At the outset, the vehicle initiates its operation in VTOL mode, employing the vertically oriented propulsors exclusively designed for vertical thrust. The precise control of torque and propelling power from these propulsors enables the execution of various flight maneuvers during this phase, providing exceptional lift and maneuverability.

[0028] Once the desired altitude is achieved, the transition to Forward-Thrust mode occurs seamlessly, where the horizontally oriented pusher fans 31, meticulously enclosed within ducts 35, come into play. These propulsions, connected securely to the vehicle's structure via fixed pylons 32 and connecting arm 36, provide the necessary horizontal thrust for high-speed forward flight. Flight maneuvers in this phase are governed by the precise differences of torque in vertical propulsions, and the asymmetric thrust of the horizontal pusher motors, ensuring optimal performance and maneuverability.

[0029] For a controlled and precise landing, the aerial vehicle seamlessly reverts to VTOL mode, utilizing the vertical propulsors 57 to execute a safe descent and precise landing at the desired location. Throughout these modes of operation, the cones, both within the vertical and horizontal ducts, play a pivotal role in optimizing airflow dynamics, minimizing turbulence, and contributing to enhanced aerodynamic performance, while outlet guide walls ensure efficient thrust expulsion. This comprehensive and adaptable operational approach underscores the vehicle's multifaceted utility.

[0030] The version of this advanced hybrid aerial vehicle is poised to revolutionize a multitude of industries and operational scenarios through its exceptional capabilities. In the realm of logistics, this innovative system holds the promise of rapid and efficient delivery to remote and challenging terrains, where traditional aerial vehicles often struggle due to inadequate infrastructure and limited operational range. Whether it's the swift transportation of critical medical supplies to inaccessible regions, the timely delivery of relief materials during humanitarian crises, or ensuring provisions reach geographically isolated communities, this hybrid vehicle's seamless transition between VTOL and high-velocity horizontal flight provides a transformative solution.

[0031] Furthermore, its adaptability extends to the field of search and rescue, where it can swiftly navigate complex urban environments or rugged wilderness to locate and aid individuals in distress. In agriculture, it offers precision crop monitoring and pesticide application, optimizing yields and reducing environmental impact. In surveillance and reconnaissance, it excels in providing real-time data and surveillance capabilities for law enforcement and defense applications.

[0032] These are just a few examples of how this groundbreaking invention redefines the parameters of aerial operations, offering versatility and performance across a spectrum of industries and environments, ultimately reshaping the future of aviation technology.Patent Literature

[0033] Brody, D. E., (2017). VTOL Aircraft (U.S. Patent No. 9,676,479). U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

[0034] Dietrich, C. et al., (2023). Blown Flying Wing CTOL / VTOL Tailsitter Aircraft (U.S. Patent No. 11,718,398). U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

[0035] Ferrier, J.-J., (2011). Hybrid Helicopter That is Fast and Has Long Range (U.S. Patent No. 8,070,089). U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

[0036] Johnson, A. E., (1970). Ducted Propulsion Units for VTOL Aircraft (U.S. Patent No. 3,488,018). U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

[0037] Lee, S. H., (2020). Unmanned Aerial Vehicle with Unfoldable Propeller Units (European Patent No. 3,321,180). European Patent Office.

[0038] Singh, R. et al., (2023). Fixed-Wing Vertical Take-Off and Landing Hybrid UAV (U.S. Patent No. 11,655,023). U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

[0039] Tomislav, C., (2015). Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) Aerial Vehicle and Method of Operating Such a VTOL Aerial Vehicle (European Patent No. 2,738,091). European Patent Office.

Claims

An aerial vehicle comprising vertically oriented propulsions for vertical thrust and horizontally oriented propulsions for forward thrust, all enclosed within ducts and securely attached to an airframe and structure, wherein said vehicle transitions seamlessly between Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) mode and Forward-Thrust mode.The aerial vehicle of Claim 1, wherein the vertically oriented propulsions and horizontally oriented propulsions are meticulously crafted from lightweight and durable materials such as aluminum or carbon fiber.The aerial vehicle of Claim 1, wherein the carbon fiber airframe serves as the fundamental structure of the vehicle, providing customizable design options for specific applications.The aerial vehicle of Claim 1, further comprising adaptable landing gear engineered for stability and versatility, facilitating safe ground operations on diverse terrains.The aerial vehicle of Claim 1, wherein the distributed propulsion system enhances overall aerodynamic efficiency and lift distribution.The aerial vehicle of Claim 1, wherein the vertically oriented propulsions are securely attached to the vehicle's body via fixed pylons to prevent untoward rotation during steady flight and during maneuvers.The aerial vehicle of Claim 1, wherein the vertically and horizontally oriented propulsions comprise fans enclosed within ducts for optimized aerodynamic performance.The aerial vehicle of Claim 1, wherein cones are situated at the inlets of the vertically and horizontally oriented propulsions to guide incoming airflow and reduce turbulence.The aerial vehicle of Claim 1, further comprising outlet guide walls for precise control over the exhaust airflow from the vertical ducted fans and the horizontal pusher propulsions.The aerial vehicle of Claim 1, wherein the horizontally oriented propulsions are affixed to the vehicle's structure using fixed pylons and connecting arms for secure and immobile connections.A method of operating the aerial vehicle of Claim 1, comprising transitioning between VTOL mode and Forward-Thrust mode based on altitude and mission operations requirements.The method of Claim 11, further comprising controlled and precise takeoff and landing using VTOL mode for safe maneuvering through differences in vertical propulsion thrust and torques.The method of Claim 11, wherein the Forward-Thrust mode is governed by precise differences in vertical torque, vertical and horizontal thrust output, and horizontal asymmetric thrust.

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