Formation Flight Positioning Using Power Feedback for Mixed Aircraft
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current aircraft systems cannot effectively engage in formation flight due to differences in type and weight class, as well as unknown or varying atmospheric conditions, which hinders the realization of drag and energy reduction benefits observed in flocking birds and confirmed in aircraft research.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that allows for real-time engagement of formation flight by determining optimal positioning based on power consumption data, using a flight computer system to monitor and adjust energy dissipation, enabling aircraft of different types and sizes to fly efficiently together without prior aerodynamic analyses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If aircraft of different types and weight classes attempt to engage in formation flight, then the versatility and adaptability of the formation flight system is improved, but the aerodynamic compatibility and energy efficiency deteriorate due to dissimilarity in aircraft characteristics
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts formation configuration based on real-time power consumption data and aircraft characteristics. The trailing aircraft continuously monitors its own power usage and adjusts its position, speed, and altitude to optimize energy savings while accommodating differences in aircraft type and weight class.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters such as formation geometry, separation distance, and flight speed based on measured power consumption. By continuously monitoring power data and adjusting these parameters, the system achieves energy efficiency across diverse aircraft types without requiring pre-flight aerodynamic analysis.
2Ease of operation
If real-time formation flight engagement is implemented without pre-flight aerodynamic analysis, then the ease of operation and readiness are improved, but the measurement precision and reliability of aerodynamic performance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses continuous feedback from power consumption measurements to determine optimal formation positioning. The trailing aircraft monitors its own power usage in real-time and adjusts its position to maximize energy savings, eliminating the need for pre-flight aerodynamic analysis while maintaining precision through closed-loop control.
Solution Approach 2:
Each aircraft autonomously determines its optimal formation position by monitoring its own power consumption data. The system performs self-adjustment without external intervention or pre-computed aerodynamic data, enabling immediate formation flight engagement while maintaining measurement accuracy through onboard sensing and decision-making.
3Reliability
If aircraft maintain larger separation distances in formation flight, then the safety and collision avoidance are improved, but the energy reduction benefits from induced drag reduction deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically optimizes separation distance by continuously monitoring power consumption data. The trailing aircraft adjusts its distance from the lead aircraft in real-time, maintaining the optimal balance between collision avoidance and energy savings based on measured power reduction at different separations.
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
This approach increases the range and endurance of aircraft, allows for grouped flight capabilities, and assists power-challenged aircraft, achieving energy reduction while accommodating various power sources and flight modes, including ascending, descending, or hovering.
Implementation Method 1
upon positioning in lateral trailing or 'V' formation pattern, a reduction in induced drag and a related reduction in the energy exerted for flight is observed
Data Source
AI summary
According to one implementation of the present disclosure, a method for formation flight is disclosed. The method includes: during flight, arranging for a first aircraft to fly into a proximity range of a second aircraft; and determining first aircraft positioning based on power consumption data of the first aircraft, where the first aircraft positioning corresponds to power-reducing formation flight of the first aircraft.