Aircraft Electric Propulsor with Variable Thrust Vectoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current propulsion systems for aircraft rely on combustion engines, which are inefficient and produce high carbon emissions, whereas electric or hybrid-electric propulsion systems with variable thrust control and vectoring capabilities are needed to optimize aircraft design and reduce emissions.
Innovation Solution
A propulsor system comprising an electric motor and a fan unit with a thrust control system that includes a variable area nozzle and thrust reverser, allowing for independent control of each propulsor to optimize thrust direction and efficiency, utilizing a nacelle structure and guide vanes to accelerate air and a rotation actuator to adjust flap positions for thrust vectoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-generated harmful factors
If combustion engines are used for aircraft propulsion, then thrust is produced, but carbon emissions are high and efficiency is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces combustion engines with electric motors to drive the propulsors. This substitution eliminates direct carbon emissions from the propulsion system while improving energy efficiency through electric drive, directly addressing the contradiction between harmful emissions and energy efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements variable thrust control through adjustable nozzle areas and thrust vectoring capabilities. This allows optimization of propulsion parameters for different flight conditions, improving overall energy efficiency and reducing emissions by operating at optimal points across various flight regimes
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional propulsion systems are used, then thrust is provided, but aircraft maneuverability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic thrust control through variable area nozzles and thrust vectoring capabilities. Each propulsor can independently adjust its thrust direction and magnitude, enabling enhanced aircraft maneuverability without requiring complex mechanical linkages, thus improving adaptability while managing system complexity through electronic control
Solution Approach 2:
The propulsors serve multiple functions: they provide forward thrust for propulsion, enable reverse thrust for braking and go-around operations, and provide thrust vectoring for enhanced maneuverability. This multi-functionality improves aircraft versatility while avoiding the need for separate systems for each function
3Productivity
If thrust control system with variable area nozzle is added, then thrust efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical thrust control systems with electrically actuated variable area nozzles and thrust reversers. This substitution improves thrust efficiency through precise electronic control while reducing mechanical complexity by eliminating complex linkages and mechanical actuators
Solution Approach 2:
The thrust control system enables continuous adjustment of nozzle area and thrust direction parameters. This allows optimization of thrust efficiency across different flight conditions through electronic parameter control, avoiding the need for complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms
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 enhances aircraft maneuverability and reduces carbon emissions by providing efficient, variable thrust control and the ability to reverse thrust, optimizing energy use and reducing noise.
Implementation Method 1
The electric motor converts electrical power to mechanical rotation of the fan unit
Implementation Method 2
The thrust control system interacts with accelerated air as it leaves the fan unit
Data Source
AI summary
A propulsor includes an electric motor, a fan unit, and a thrust system positioned downstream of and coupled to the fan unit. The electric motor converts electrical power to mechanical rotation to rotationally drive the fan unit and create an air stream directed towards the thrust control system.