Magnetic Rotor Locking for eVTOL Drag Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
In electric multi-propulsion systems, such as eVTOL aircraft, the movement of a rotor not in use during flight generates undesirable drag.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic locking system for an electric aircraft rotor, comprising a magnetic lock with a first and second magnetic component, and a controller to engage the lock and prevent rotor movement, thereby reducing drag.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the rotor is left free to move during flight, then the rotor can be quickly deployed when needed, but the rotor generates undesirable drag when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic lock is engaged before flight to pre-position the rotor in a locked state, preventing it from rotating during flight. This preliminary action eliminates drag generation while maintaining the capability for rapid deployment when the lock is disengaged and propulsion is needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical locking mechanisms with a magnetic locking system. The magnetic lock uses magnetic fields to hold the rotor stationary without physical contact, reducing mechanical complexity while effectively preventing rotor movement and associated drag during non-propulsion phases.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If a magnetic locking system is implemented to prevent rotor movement, then drag is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic locking system replaces complex mechanical locking mechanisms with a simpler magnetic field-based system. The magnetic lock comprises magnetic components that can engage and disengage through electromagnetic control, eliminating the need for mechanical linkages, springs, and actuators while achieving the same drag-reduction function.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic locking system utilizes the existing electromagnetic propulsion system's controller to manage the magnetic lock's engagement and disengagement. The same controller that manages motor operation also controls the magnetic lock, eliminating the need for separate control systems and reducing overall device complexity.
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 magnetic locking system effectively prevents the movement of rotors not in use, thereby reducing drag and improving the efficiency of electric aircraft operations.
Implementation Method 1
A magnetic locking system includes: a magnetic lock having a first magnetic component, and a second magnetic component fixedly attached to a rotor of an electric aircraft
Data Source
AI summary
A magnetic locking system and methods for restricting movement of an electric aircraft motor is provided. A locking system may include a magnetic lock, which includes a first magnetic component and a second magnetic component. First and second magnetic components may be configured to attract each other and thus lock rotor in a certain position. The first or second magnetic component may include an electromagnet so that magnetic lock may be engaged or disengaged based on one or more parameters, such as a detection by a sensor or a signal generated by a controller.