eVTOL Landing Platform With Sensor-Triggered Charging Column
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for an apparatus that can facilitate the landing and takeoff of electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft (EVTOLs), as they gain popularity as a mode of transportation.
Innovation Solution
The development of an aircraft takeoff and landing apparatus comprising a moveable landing platform with weight sensors and a moveable charging assembly with high voltage cables for magnetic induction, allowing for automatic charging of EVTOLs upon landing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a stationary charging platform is used for EVTOL landing, then the structure is simple and stable, but the charging process requires manual intervention and is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The charging assembly is designed with vertical movement capability, transitioning from a static to a dynamic structure. The column can extend upward to contact the EVTOL aircraft after landing, enabling automated charging without manual intervention while maintaining structural simplicity through controlled motion
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses weight sensors to automatically detect EVTOL landing and triggers the charging assembly to rise and connect without human operation. The aircraft itself initiates the charging process by simply landing on the platform, making the system self-serving
2Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed charging cable system is used, then the installation is simple, but the charging connection cannot adapt to different landing positions
Solution Approach 1:
The charging cable system incorporates vertical movement through an extendable column mechanism. This dynamic structure allows the cable to reach different heights and positions automatically, adapting to various landing scenarios while maintaining a relatively simple overall design
Solution Approach 2:
The charging system is divided into separable components: a movable column section and a cable section. This segmentation allows the column to extend to the appropriate height and then connect the cable, providing positional adaptability without requiring a completely complex integrated system
3Productivity
If manual charging connection is used, then the equipment structure is simple, but the charging time is long and operational efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Weight sensors provide real-time feedback on aircraft landing, automatically triggering the charging assembly to rise and connect. This feedback mechanism eliminates manual intervention and significantly reduces charging connection time, improving productivity while adding only a simple sensor-actuator control loop
Solution Approach 2:
The charging assembly is pre-positioned in a retracted state within the platform structure. Upon detecting aircraft weight, it automatically extends to the charging position, performing the connection action immediately without waiting for manual operation, thus speeding up the process
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 apparatus enables efficient and automated takeoff and landing operations for EVTOLs, ensuring quick and convenient charging, which is essential for their operational readiness.
Implementation Method 1
The charging assembly comprises a high voltage cable adapted for electrical, magnetic induction positioned within a column
Implementation Method 2
The column can move vertically via a spring, hydraulic mechanism, or other suitable drive means
Implementation Method 3
The column can move vertically via a spring, hydraulic mechanism, or other suitable drive means
Implementation Method 4
the landing platform includes weight sensors that are operatively connected to the charging assembly such that when an EVTOL lands on the platform, the sensors send a signal
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for facilitating the landing and takeoff of electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft (EVTOL) can comprise a moveable landing platform, a moveable charging assembly comprising a high voltage cable adapted for electrical, magnetic induction positioned within a vertically moveable column having a magnetic plate and multiple access connections, and weight sensors positioned on the landing platform. The weight sensors are operatively connected to the charging assembly such that when the sensors detect the landing of an EVTOL on the platform, the sensors trigger the charging assembly to rise up to contact the EVTOL and begin charging the EVTOL.