Two-Axis Gimbaled Fan for Omnidirectional Thrust Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional aircraft, including unmanned aerial systems, lack the maneuverability and speed range to operate effectively in tight spaces due to limitations in thrust direction control and airflow over control surfaces.
Innovation Solution
A gimbaled fan system that allows 360-degree rotation about two axes, utilizing thrust-vectoring modules and a duct with tapered ends to direct thrust in any direction, enabling aircraft to fly at various body orientations and speeds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional fixed-wing or rotor aircraft are used, then basic flight capability is achieved, but maneuverability and speed range are insufficient for operating in tight spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The fan assembly incorporates a gimbal mechanism with two degrees of freedom that enables dynamic repositioning of the thrust vector. The first pivot joint allows rotation about a first axis, and the second pivot joint allows rotation about a second axis perpendicular to the first, enabling the fan to adapt its thrust direction in real-time for enhanced maneuverability in tight spaces
Solution Approach 2:
The gimbal mechanism enables the single fan assembly to perform multiple functions: it can direct thrust forward for forward flight, redirect thrust laterally for lateral movement, and orient thrust in various directions for hovering and positioning in tight spaces, replacing the need for separate control surfaces and multiple rotors
2Adaptability or versatility
If VTOL aircraft with lateral tilting propellers are used, then low-speed maneuvering capability is improved, but control complexity and structural complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the functions of multiple control mechanisms into a single gimbal assembly. The first and second pivot joints combine to provide two degrees of freedom, allowing the fan to achieve lateral tilting, forward/backward tilting, and rotational orientation simultaneously, simplifying the overall control architecture while maintaining low-speed maneuvering capability
Data Source
AI summary
A fan for providing thrust including at least one blade, a hub adapted to carry the at least one blade, a hub motor adapted to rotate the hub 360 degrees about a first axis extending perpendicular to the at least one blade, a first mount adapted to carry the hub, and a first mount motor adapted to rotate the hub 360 degrees about a second axis perpendicular to the first axis and extending through the first mount first and second side securing points. The first mount may include a first mount first side securing point adapted to pivotally carry the hub, and a first mount second side securing point adapted to pivotally carry the hub.