Circumferential Ring Propulsors for LTA Aircraft Maneuvering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional Lighter Than Air (LTA) aircraft propulsion systems face challenges in maneuvering at high altitudes and hovering due to the need for forward or reverse motion to facilitate air flow over control surfaces, limiting their ability to operate efficiently and safely in extreme conditions.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a circumferential ring propulsor and control assembly with counter-rotating propulsors and adjustable control vanes, housed within shrouds, allows for independent control of air flow and propulsion, enabling vertical and horizontal steering without the need for protruding control surfaces, and allows for hovering and maneuvering in three-dimensional space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional engine-driven propellers with central shaft and hub-mounted blades are used, then forward or reverse motion is achieved, but maneuvering in hovering mode becomes difficult or impossible due to lack of air flow across control surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The aircraft control system is segmented into multiple independent circumferential ring propulsors distributed around the aircraft body, each capable of independent rotation and control. This segmentation allows different sections to perform different functions simultaneously, enabling hovering and maneuvering without requiring forward motion for control surface effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system transitions from traditional two-dimensional control surfaces (rudders and ailerons) to three-dimensional circumferential ring propulsors that can generate thrust in multiple directions. The ring propulsors can tilt and rotate to provide control forces in vertical, horizontal, and rotational axes, enabling full three-dimensional maneuvering including hovering.
2Ease of operation
If protruding rudders and ailerons are used for control, then steering is achieved, but susceptibility to fouling and damage from ground contact or collision increases
Solution Approach 1:
The circumferential ring propulsors are nested within shrouds that form protective enclosures. The propulsor blades operate within the annular space created by the shroud and aircraft body, protecting them from external damage while maintaining aerodynamic effectiveness for steering control.
Solution Approach 2:
The control function is extracted from traditional protruding surfaces and transferred to the propulsor system. The control vanes are positioned within the protected annular gap rather than protruding externally, eliminating the vulnerability of exposed control surfaces to ground contact and collision damage.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional control surfaces are used, then air flow across surfaces is required for function, but forward or reverse speed must be maintained limiting maneuvering in confined spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The circumferential ring propulsors are dynamically adjustable in terms of blade pitch, rotation speed, and orientation. Control vanes can be individually adjusted to direct air flow in different directions, allowing the system to adapt to various maneuvering requirements including hovering, vertical ascent/descent, and horizontal movement in confined spaces without requiring forward speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The propulsor system performs multiple functions: it provides both propulsion and control authority. The same circumferential ring propulsors that generate forward thrust also provide steering control through adjustable control vanes, eliminating the need for separate control surfaces and enabling all-around maneuvering capability in three-dimensional space.
4Reliability
If circumferential ring propulsors with shrouds are implemented, then protection against blade damage and fouling is provided, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The shroud structure combines multiple functions: it protects the propulsor blades from damage, provides a streamlined outer surface, and creates the annular gap necessary for propulsor operation. The control vanes are integrated within this same structure, eliminating the need for separate protective housings and control surface mounts.
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
This solution enhances the controllability and range of LTA aircraft, reduces susceptibility to damage, and enables operation in confined spaces, while eliminating the need for traditional rudders and ailerons, thus improving overall aircraft performance and safety.
Implementation Method 1
circumferential ring propulsors capable of rotating in opposite directions... provide thrust for forward or reverse motion
Implementation Method 2
Control Vanes are placed between the propulsor shrouds and the aircraft body to direct the flow of air through the forward and aft propulsors
Implementation Method 3
The two propulsor assemblies counter-rotate in order to neutralize torque from the propulsors on the LTA vehicle
Data Source
AI summary
A propulsor and control system for a Lighter Than Air (LTA) aircraft having annular fore and aft circumferential shrouds surrounding the aircraft body. The fore and aft circumferential shrouds form respective fore and aft circumferential shroud gaps between the fore and aft circumferential shrouds and the LTA aircraft body. Fore and aft propulsor blades are situated substantially or completely within the fore and aft circumferential shroud gaps. The blades counter-rotate in one embodiment. The fore and aft circumferential ring propulsors can have front control vanes located in front of the respective propulsors blade sets, and back control vanes located behind the respective propulsors to control the direction of the flow of air in order to maneuver the LTA aircraft. Magnetic levitation may be used to actuate the propulsor blade sets.