Aircraft Power-Split Transmission for VTOL-to-Cruise Power Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multi-mode aircraft often have extra weight, design complexity, and maintenance issues due to the need for multiple powerplants and drive systems to operate in various propulsion modes, such as VTOL and high-speed flight.
Innovation Solution
A power-split-transmission system with a sun gear, planetary carrier, ring gear, and resistance devices that direct power from a single powerplant to multiple outputs, allowing for smooth control of power flow between different propulsion modes by applying torque to control rotational speed and torque, eliminating the need for separate powerplants for VTOL and high-speed flight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate powerplants and drive systems are used for VTOL and high-speed flight, then the aircraft can operate in multiple propulsion modes, but the weight, design complexity, and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple drive systems into a single integrated power-split transmission system that can distribute power to different outputs (rotors for VTOL, ducted fans for high-speed flight) from one powerplant, eliminating the need for separate powerplants for each propulsion mode
Solution Approach 2:
The power-split transmission system is designed as a universal mechanism that can operate in multiple propulsion modes (VTOL, transition, high-speed flight) by directing power to different outputs, making a single system perform functions that previously required multiple dedicated systems
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate powerplants are used for different propulsion modes, then each mode can be optimized independently, but the total weight of the aircraft increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple drive systems into one integrated power-split transmission, reducing the total number of powerplants from multiple to one, thereby directly reducing the weight of moving objects (powerplants and associated components)
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate drive systems are used for VTOL and high-speed flight, then each system can be optimized for its specific function, but the design complexity and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges separate drive systems into a unified power-split transmission that maintains function-specific optimization through its planetary gear mechanism, while reducing design complexity by eliminating redundant systems and interfaces
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
Enables efficient transition between propulsion modes, reducing weight, complexity, and maintenance by utilizing a single powerplant and minimizing wear on resistance devices, while allowing for 0-100% power distribution to either output, facilitating faster transitions and regenerative energy harvesting.
Implementation Method 1
Operation of the first resistance device causes power received from the rotational power input to be directed to the second rotational power output
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-mode aircraft power-split-transmission system includes a rotational power input and a power-split transmission. The power-split transmission includes a sun gear, a planetary carrier, a ring gear, a first rotational power output, and a second rotational power output. The multi-mode aircraft power-split-transmission system also includes a first resistance device coupled to the first rotational power output and fixed to an airframe of the multi-mode aircraft and a second resistance device coupled to the second rotational power output and fixed to the airframe. Operation of the first resistance device causes power received from the rotational power input to be directed to the second rotational power output.