Dual-Function Aircraft Power Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
In remote or disaster-affected areas where traditional aircraft cannot land, there is a challenge in delivering electrical power generation systems, as existing solutions are inadequate for providing reliable electric power post-disaster.
Innovation Solution
A dual-function aircraft equipped with a propulsion system featuring electric fan assemblies powered by an oversized electric power source, including a turboshaft engine and generator, capable of vertical takeoff and landing, and switching between flight and power generation modes to supply electrical power to remote locations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional fixed wing aircraft are used to deliver electrical generators, then delivery capability is improved, but accessibility to remote locations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The aircraft is designed with dual functionality: it can operate as a traditional fixed-wing aircraft for transportation and as a mobile power generation plant. The oversized electric power source and electrical outlet enable it to provide electrical power to remote areas, combining transportation and power generation capabilities in a single vehicle.
Solution Approach 2:
The aircraft configuration is dynamically adjustable. The electric power source can be selectively connected to either the propulsion system for flight operations or to the electrical outlet for power generation operations, allowing the system to adapt its function based on operational needs.
2Reliability
If dedicated electric generators are delivered to disaster areas, then electrical power supply is improved, but deployment complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the transportation function and power generation function into a single integrated system. The aircraft carries its own oversized electric power source and can directly provide electrical power at the destination without requiring separate delivery and setup of dedicated generators, thereby reducing deployment complexity while maintaining reliable power supply.
3Power
If oversized electric power source is installed in aircraft, then power generation capability is improved, but weight deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The aircraft system is designed to be dynamically reconfigurable. The electric power source is sized to exceed the aircraft's flight power requirements, enabling it to provide surplus power to external electrical outlets. The system can selectively allocate power between propulsion and external power generation based on operational mode, optimizing the use of the oversized power source.
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 the delivery of electrical power to remote areas with enhanced reliability and efficiency, providing up to 10% more power in power generation mode than flight mode, facilitating disaster recovery by combining power generation and transportation in a single vehicle.
Implementation Method 1
an electric generator selectively provides electrical power to one of the propulsion system or the electrical outlet
Implementation Method 2
an electric power source and a propulsion system featuring electric fan assemblies powered by the electric power source
Data Source
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AI summary
An aircraft 10 includes an electric power source 40 having a combustion engine 94 and an electric generator 96. The electric generator 96 is powered by the combustion engine 94. The aircraft 10 also includes a propulsion assembly 38 including a propulsor and an electric motor 86, the electric motor 86 configured for rotating the propulsor. The aircraft 10 also includes an electrical outlet 92 configured for connection with an outside power sink. The electrical outlet 92 and the propulsion assembly 38 are selectively in electrical communication with the electric power source 40 such that the electric power source 40 selectively provides electrical power to one of the electrical outlet 92 or the propulsion assembly 38.