Aircraft Takeoff Assist Coupling for Ground Propulsion Handoff
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aircraft tugs are not suitable for propelling aircraft during the takeoff phase, leading to fuel or energy inefficiencies and weight penalties, particularly for electrically-powered aircraft.
Innovation Solution
An aircraft takeoff assist system comprising a coupling mechanism between an assist vehicle and the aircraft's landing gear, allowing for the transfer of propulsive force and electric power, with a swivel connection that disengages automatically during takeoff.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing tugs are used to taxi the aircraft, then ground movement is facilitated, but the aircraft cannot be propelled during takeoff phase and fuel consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The assist vehicle is designed to perform multiple functions: it can taxi the aircraft during ground movement and also propel the aircraft during the takeoff phase. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate vehicles for different phases of operation, thereby reducing fuel consumption and improving versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism between the assist vehicle and aircraft is designed to be dynamic, automatically transitioning from a connected state during ground movement to a disconnected state during takeoff. This dynamic coupling allows the assist vehicle to provide propulsion only when needed, optimizing energy usage.
2Ease of operation
If existing tugs are used for ground movement, then aircraft can be moved, but onboard battery requirements increase for electrically-powered aircraft
Solution Approach 1:
The assist vehicle acts as an intermediary that provides external propulsion during ground operations and takeoff. By transferring the propulsion burden from the aircraft's onboard systems to the external assist vehicle, the aircraft can reduce its onboard battery capacity and weight while maintaining full operational capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The assist vehicle performs the energy-intensive propulsion function during ground operations and takeoff before the aircraft becomes airborne. This preliminary action allows the aircraft to shed excess battery weight that would otherwise be required to handle these high-energy-demand phases.
3Reliability
If a fixed coupling mechanism is used between assist vehicle and aircraft, then force transfer is reliable, but the coupling cannot disengage automatically during takeoff
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism incorporates dynamic elements that allow it to transition from a rigid, reliable force-transfer connection during ground operations to a disengaged state during takeoff. The coupling includes movable components that respond to changes in operational phase, maintaining reliability when connected and enabling automatic disengagement when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism is designed to automatically disengage during takeoff without requiring external intervention. The system monitors operational parameters and autonomously transitions the coupling from engaged to disengaged state, combining reliability of force transfer with adaptive disengagement capability.
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 fuel consumption and onboard battery requirements during ground operations, enabling more efficient takeoff and reducing the weight penalty for electrically-powered aircraft.
Implementation Method 1
a vehicle coupling counterpart for engagement with the aircraft coupling counterpart, the aircraft coupling counterpart and the vehicle coupling counterpart defining a swivel connection for transferring a propulsive force from the takeoff assist vehicle to the aircraft
Implementation Method 2
the vehicle coupling counterpart including an upwardly tapered projection having an electric port for transferring electric power from the aircraft assist vehicle to the aircraft
Data Source
AI summary
An aircraft assist system described herein includes an aircraft coupling counterpart attached to a strut of a landing gear of an aircraft, and an assist vehicle. The assist vehicle includes a frame, ground-engaging wheels mounted to the frame, a power source for driving one or more of the ground-engaging wheels, and a vehicle coupling counterpart for engagement with the aircraft coupling counterpart. The aircraft coupling counterpart and the vehicle coupling counterpart define a swivel connection for transferring a propulsive force from the takeoff assist vehicle to the aircraft. The aircraft coupling counterpart is disengageable from the vehicle coupling counterpart by upward movement of the aircraft coupling counterpart relative to the vehicle coupling counterpart.