Aerodynamic Pod Rear-View Cavity for Low-Torque Optical Rotation
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical turrets on aircrafts require heavy and high-energy consumption power units to counter aerodynamic torque, affecting performance and fuel consumption, and fail to enable full 0-360 degree movement due to insufficient resistance against aerodynamic forces.
Innovation Solution
An aerodynamic pod design with a rear-view cavity featuring a channel and protrusion to regulate asymmetric pressure distribution, allowing the front body to rotate circularly around the y-axis with reduced torque, enabling the use of smaller and lighter power units.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If heavy and high energy consumption power units are used to counter aerodynamic torque, then the front body can rotate 0-360 degrees, but the aircraft performance and fuel consumption deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful aerodynamic torque that resists rotation into a beneficial aerodynamic design feature. By shaping the rear-view cavity with specific asymmetric geometry, the aerodynamic forces are redistributed to reduce the net torque opposing rotation, allowing lightweight motors to achieve full 0-360 degree rotation while maintaining energy efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the aerodynamic parameters of the pod by modifying the rear-view cavity geometry. The asymmetric shape with specific curvature radii and opening angles alters the pressure distribution and flow patterns, transforming the aerodynamic torque characteristics to enable rotation with minimal energy input
2Use of energy by moving object
If lightweight and low energy consumption power units are used, then fuel consumption is reduced, but the front body cannot perform complete movement between 0-360 degrees due to insufficient resistance against aerodynamic torque
Solution Approach 1:
The aerodynamic design transforms the previously harmful aerodynamic torque into a neutral or beneficial force by optimizing the rear-view cavity shape, enabling lightweight motors to overcome resistance and achieve full rotation range
3Measurement precision
If air separators are placed behind the circular optical turret to improve image quality, then the strehl ratio is close to 1, but the aerodynamic torque problem remains unsolved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the aerodynamic torque reduction function with the optical performance function into a single integrated rear-view cavity design. The asymmetric cavity shape simultaneously optimizes airflow to reduce torque and maintains a clean optical path for high image quality, eliminating the need for separate air separators
Solution Approach 2:
The rear-view cavity is designed as a multi-functional component that performs both aerodynamic torque reduction and optical path protection, serving dual purposes that were previously addressed by separate components
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Reduces torque requirement by about 40% and allows for the use of lighter and more energy-efficient power units, enhancing the aerodynamic performance and reducing fuel consumption.
Implementation Method 1
aerodynamic torque generated on the front body
Implementation Method 2
regulate the asymmetric pressure distribution on the rear-view cavity
Data Source
AI summary
An aerodynamic pod for positioning on aircrafts is provided; the aerodynamic pod includes a body and a front body positioned on the body and movable, an optical head positioned on the front body, a rear-view cavity positioned on the front body, a channel opening on the rear-view cavity for movement of the front body against the aerodynamic torque generated thereon, and a protrusion positioned on the rear-view cavity.