Augmentable Air Injected Plenum Propulsion Drive for eVTOL
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current propulsion systems for electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft lack efficient multi-mode propulsion capabilities, struggling to seamlessly transition between vertical takeoff and horizontal flight modes.
Innovation Solution
The Augmentable Air Injected Plenum Propulsion Drive (PPD) employs a symmetrical elongated polygonal Plenum Chamber with dual Injector Assemblies and a Ventral VTOL Thrust Assembly, utilizing Thrust Tube Assemblies and electro-mechanical mechanisms to control airflow and transition between flight modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single propulsion system is used for both VTOL and horizontal flight, then device complexity is reduced, but propulsion efficiency and performance deteriorate due to inability to optimize for specific flight modes
Solution Approach 1:
The propulsion system employs dynamic control mechanisms including variable pitch propeller blades, adjustable thrust vectoring, and modulating compressor inlet guides vanes to optimize performance for specific flight modes. The system transitions from a static single-configuration design to a dynamic multi-mode system that adapts its geometry and airflow characteristics in real-time based on operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The propulsion system integrates multiple functions within a single unit by incorporating both VTOL and horizontal flight capabilities through a unified design. The compressor, turbine, and propeller assembly is configured to serve dual purposes, with additional features like adjustable thrust vectors and variable pitch mechanisms enabling the same system to perform both vertical takeoff/landing and conventional horizontal flight operations.
2Force
If compression ports are open for VTOL mode, then vertical thrust is improved, but horizontal flight performance deteriorates due to airflow loss
Solution Approach 1:
The compression ports are equipped with dynamically controllable shutters or adjustable vanes that can open or close based on the required flight mode. During VTOL operation, the ports open to allow maximum compression and generate vertical thrust. During horizontal flight, the ports close to prevent airflow loss and maintain compression efficiency, thereby optimizing performance for the current operational state.
Solution Approach 2:
The propulsion system incorporates sensors and control systems that monitor flight conditions and automatically adjust the compression port positions accordingly. The feedback mechanism ensures that the compression ports are in the optimal position for the current flight regime, transitioning smoothly between VTOL and horizontal flight modes while maintaining peak performance.
3Power
If airflow is compressed for VTOL operation, then vertical propulsion power is improved, but horizontal flight capability deteriorates due to restricted airflow paths
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs dynamic adjustment mechanisms including variable inlet guide vanes and adjustable thrust vectoring components that reconfigure airflow paths based on operational mode. During VTOL, the inlet guides are positioned to maximize compression and vertical thrust. During horizontal flight, the same components adjust to redirect airflow along the fuselage, maintaining horizontal flight capability while preserving the high-power compression capability when needed.
4Ease of manufacture
If a fixed propulsion design is used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but operational flexibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The propulsion system incorporates movable and adjustable components such as variable pitch propeller blades, adjustable thrust vectoring mechanisms, and modulating compressor inlet guides that can be manufactured in fixed configurations but operate dynamically. These components are designed with standardized interfaces and controlled movements that maintain manufacturing simplicity while enabling operational flexibility across different flight modes.
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
The PPD achieves efficient and seamless transitions between VTOL and horizontal flight modes by dynamically controlling airflow and compression, enhancing propulsion power and operational flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
a compressor positioned at a forward end of the fuselage and configured to compress air from the inlet through the compressor
Implementation Method 2
a turbine positioned at a rear end of the fuselage and configured to receive the compressed air from the compressor and expand the compressed air through the turbine
Implementation Method 3
a propeller positioned at the rear end of the fuselage and configured to receive rotational motion from the turbine and convert the rotational motion into thrust
Data Source
AI summary
Here on Earth, there is a need and is quite essential that we keep moving. But we must be progressive in our living and livelihood while protecting and preserving our planet. There are places to go, people to meet, and business to be had. Designed with electric aircraft and flying cars or taxis in mind, the Augmentable Air Injected Plenum Propulsion Drive for Electric VTOL Operation and Flight is the first electric VTOL propulsion system to employ the concept of opposing air flow and cyclic column compression of those opposing flow(s) to pressurize a plenum chamber. Opposing flow and cyclic column compression is then harnessed for the purpose of augmenting, or amplifying, injected air to provide enhanced air/fluid power to an electric VTOL thrust system for the purpose of VTOL operation and horizontal flight and is multi-modal for VTOL and horizontal flight.For VTOL operation, air is drawn in by injectors, compressed, and channeled into the plenum chamber which provides energized air to the ventral VTOL thrust assembly which further accelerates the air for vertical propulsion thrust. The PPD then goes into multi-mode transition by diverting air from the plenum chamber into rear injectors as they switch from injector mode to rearward thrust. This described synergistic process which is powered by electricity is what gives the Plenum Propulsion Drive the ability to provide power for flight while keeping the Earth healthy and green.