Collapsible Dual-Engine VTOL Fixed-Wing Aircraft Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fixed-wing aircraft require runways for takeoff and landing, limiting their deployment locations and necessitating large transport vessels for long-distance transport, which restricts aircraft size and versatility.
Innovation Solution
A dual-engine vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft design that is collapsible, allowing it to be disassembled into a compact form for transport and quickly assembled at deployment sites, enabling runway-independent operation and larger size due to reduced transport constraints.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed-wing aircraft use traditional runway takeoff and landing, then they can achieve stable flight operation, but their deployment locations are restricted and they require large transport vessels for long-distance transport
Solution Approach 1:
The aircraft is divided into multiple detachable modules including wings, fuselage, and propulsion systems that can be separated for transport and reassembled at deployment locations. This segmentation enables the aircraft to be transported in compact configurations without requiring large transport vessels or infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The aircraft incorporates transformable structures that can dynamically change between extended flight configuration and compact transport configuration. The wings and other components can be folded or repositioned to reduce overall size during transport while maintaining full functionality during flight operations.
2Length of moving object
If fixed-wing aircraft are transported on larger vessels for long-distance transport, then they can reach distant locations, but the aircraft size is restricted by transport vessel constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The aircraft components are designed to nest within each other during transport, with smaller components fitting inside larger ones. This nesting arrangement dramatically reduces the volume required for transport while allowing the components to be quickly deployed and assembled into a much larger functional aircraft at the destination.
Solution Approach 2:
The aircraft utilizes three-dimensional folding and collapsing mechanisms that allow it to transition from a large volumetric structure during flight to a compact linear or point-like configuration during transport. This dimensional transformation enables transport in standard cargo containers without volume constraints.
3Adaptability or versatility
If fixed-wing aircraft are disassembled for transport, then they can be moved to various locations, but the assembly process requires time and resources
Solution Approach 1:
The aircraft components are pre-configured with alignment features, pre-attached fasteners, and guided connection mechanisms that enable rapid assembly. Critical sub-assemblies are pre-assembled and tested before transport, so that field assembly requires only simple connection operations rather than complete construction from individual parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The aircraft incorporates self-aligning and self-latching mechanisms that automatically guide components into correct positions and secure connections without requiring precise manual alignment or complex tooling. The design enables operators to assemble the aircraft using minimal training and equipment.
Data Source
AI summary
The present application discloses an aircraft. The present application discloses a method of assembling or disassembling an aircraft. The assembly method includes mounting a first engine nacelle to a first wing, mounting a second engine nacelle to a second wing, causing the first wing to be extended relative to a fuselage mount, causing the second wing to be extended relative to the fuselage mount, and mounting the fuselage to the fuselage mount.