Foldable Propeller Multicopter for Compact Storage and Transport
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Multicopters face challenges in size reduction, disassembly, and transportation due to their large radial propeller configuration, and struggle with payload capacity and flight duration when using conventional power sources, with stability issues arising from the placement of heavy cargo and power sources affecting flight stability.
Innovation Solution
A foldable propeller structure and simple disassembly mechanism, combined with next-generation power sources like lithium-ion batteries and fuel cell packs, allow for reduced size, improved payload capacity, and enhanced flight stability by positioning the propeller above the power source, enabling efficient air circulation and cooling of electronic components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a radial propeller configuration is used to provide sufficient lift, then the multicopter can transport heavy cargo, but the occupied space increases making storage and transportation difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The propeller assembly is divided into multiple blade segments that can be folded relative to each other. Each blade is segmented into sections that can be rotated or folded about hinge points, allowing the propeller to transition from a full radial configuration during flight to a compact folded configuration for storage and transport.
Solution Approach 2:
The propeller structure incorporates movable and adjustable components that allow dynamic reconfiguration. The blades can be folded or adjusted during different operational phases - extended for flight operations to maximize lift, and folded or retracted for storage and transport to minimize occupied space.
2Device complexity
If conventional power sources are used, then the multicopter structure is simpler, but payload capacity is limited and flight duration is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The power source parameters are changed from conventional battery systems to next-generation high-energy-density power sources such as lithium-ion batteries or fuel cell power packs. This parameter change enables significantly extended flight duration and increased payload capacity while maintaining structural compatibility through standardized mounting interfaces.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the power source is positioned to balance the center of gravity, then flight stability is improved, but the propeller may obstruct air inflow path reducing aerodynamic efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The propeller assembly incorporates adjustable pitch angles and movable blade configurations that allow dynamic optimization of aerodynamic performance. The propeller can be positioned or angled to clear the air inflow path when necessary, reducing energy loss while maintaining center of gravity balance for flight stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The air inflow path is optimized with localized modifications around the propeller mounting area. The housing or cowling is designed with specific flow channels and openings that guide air flow around the propeller assembly, ensuring that the propeller position required for center of gravity balance does not obstruct the overall air intake for cooling and aerodynamic efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
A multicopter is provided. The multicopter may include a main body part, a wing part having one end connected to the main body part, and the other end connected to a propeller assembly, and a foldable part disposed on the wing part to fold the wing part, wherein the wing part is located above the main body part with respect to a Z-axis.