Modular Air Vehicle Morphing Between Flight Configurations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies do not provide a modular, optionally manned, morphing, autonomous personal air vehicle (PAV) capable of transitioning between different flight configurations and supporting various ground modules for diverse applications.
Innovation Solution
A personal air vehicle system comprising an unmanned air module and multiple ground modules that can be selectively engaged to morph into different configurations, including rotary wing, tilted-rotor, and fixed-wing flight modes, with autonomous flight capabilities and active center-of-gravity control, allowing for versatile transportation of passengers, cargo, and equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the air vehicle uses fixed configuration, then manufacturing is simpler, but adaptability to different applications is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The air vehicle is divided into separate modular components including air modules and ground modules that can be independently configured and assembled. Each module can be selectively engaged or disengaged to create different vehicle configurations for various applications such as rotary wing flight, tilted-rotor flight, or ground-based operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The vehicle incorporates morphing capabilities that allow dynamic reconfiguration of its structure during operation. The air modules can change their geometric configuration to transition between different flight modes, enabling the vehicle to adapt its aerodynamic characteristics in real-time based on operational requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the vehicle supports multiple ground modules, then versatility increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The air module is designed as a universal platform capable of interfacing with multiple types of ground modules through standardized engagement mechanisms. This multi-functionality allows the same air module to support various applications including passenger transport, cargo delivery, and emergency response operations by simply changing the attached ground module.
Solution Approach 2:
The vehicle system is segmented into independent air modules and ground modules that can be selectively combined. This modular architecture allows operators to choose and attach only the specific ground module needed for a particular mission, reducing unnecessary complexity while maintaining versatility across different operational scenarios.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the vehicle transitions between flight configurations, then adaptability improves, but reliability may deteriorate due to moving parts
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle employs controlled morphing mechanisms that allow smooth transitions between different flight configurations. These dynamic reconfiguration capabilities are managed through automated control systems that monitor structural integrity and operational parameters, ensuring reliable transitions while maintaining adaptability across flight modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The design incorporates redundant structural elements and fail-safe mechanisms in the morphing systems to cushion against potential failures during configuration transitions. Emergency stabilization systems are pre-positioned to maintain vehicle control and safety even if complications arise during adaptive reconfiguration.
Data Source
AI summary
A personal air vehicle may feature an air module that may be attached to a ground module. The air module may be equipped with exit vanes or vectored engine exhaust to provide redundant control effectors to the cyclic or collective pitch of at least one rotary wing under the control of a control system.