Drone Propulsion Geartrain With CVT for Precise Propeller Speed
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drone propulsion systems face limitations in efficiency and power due to the use of fixed-pitch rotors and traditional transmission systems, which restrict the maximum take-off weight and require complex control mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A propulsion system utilizing a continuously variable transmission (CVT) coupled with a splitter gearbox, bevel gearboxes, and multiple propellers, allowing for infinite gear ratios and precise control of propeller speed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional fixed-pitch rotors and transmission systems are used, then the structure is simple, but the efficiency and power are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by replacing fixed-pitch rotors with variable-pitch propellers and using a continuously variable transmission (CVT) system that allows infinite gear ratios. This enables the propulsion system to dynamically adjust its characteristics during operation, improving efficiency and power output while managing structural complexity through integrated design
2Measurement precision
If traditional transmission systems are used, then the control mechanism is complex, but the precision of propeller speed control is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical transmission systems with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) mechanism that provides smooth, stepless gear ratio changes. This substitution enables precise propeller speed control through continuous adjustment of the gear ratio, reducing the need for complex discrete control mechanisms while improving measurement and control precision
3Weight of moving object
If fixed-pitch rotors are used, then the system is simple, but the maximum take-off weight is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses variable-pitch propellers combined with a continuously variable transmission system to dynamically optimize thrust generation. This allows the drone to achieve higher maximum take-off weights by efficiently converting motor power into propeller thrust across a wide range of operating conditions, while the integrated propulsion system manages the added complexity through unified design
4Power
If traditional propulsion systems are used, then the power output is limited, but the energy consumption is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes key parameters including the gear ratio (through CVT), propeller pitch angle, and rotational speed to optimize the balance between power output and energy consumption. The continuously variable transmission allows the system to operate at optimal efficiency points across different flight conditions, increasing power output while reducing overall energy consumption through intelligent parameter adjustment
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 system achieves efficient and precise control of drone movement, enabling smoother ascents, hovers, and descents while increasing the maximum take-off weight and reducing the complexity of control mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
A motor is disposed at a center portion of the propulsion system. The motor includes a rotor shaft.
Implementation Method 2
A splitter gearbox is coupled to the rotor shaft. The splitter gearbox includes at least one splitter output shaft.
Implementation Method 3
A continuously variable transmission (CVT) is coupled to the splitter output shaft. The CVTs include a driveshaft.
Implementation Method 4
A bevel gearbox is coupled to the driveshaft. The bevel gearbox includes a bevel gearbox input shaft and a bevel gearbox output shaft, the bevel gearbox input shaft disposed parallel to the horizontal plane and the bevel gearbox output shaft disposed at an angle to the bevel gearbox input shaft.
Implementation Method 5
A propeller is coupled to the bevel gearbox output shaft. The propeller configured to rotate parallel to the horizontal plane about the bevel gearbox output shaft.
Data Source
AI summary
A propulsion system includes a motor, the motor disposed at a center portion of the propulsion system, the motor further including a rotor shaft. The system includes a splitter gearbox coupled to the rotor shaft, the splitter gearbox further comprising at least one splitter output shaft. The system includes at least one continuously variable transmission (CVT), the CVT coupled to the splitter output shaft, the CVTs further including a driveshaft. The system includes at least one bevel gearbox, the bevel gearbox comprising a bevel gearbox input shaft and a bevel gearbox output shaft, the bevel gearbox input shaft disposed parallel to the horizontal plane and the bevel gearbox output shaft disposed at an angle to the bevel gearbox input shaft, wherein the bevel gearbox input shaft is coupled to the driveshaft. The system includes at least one propeller coupled to the bevel gearbox output shaft.