Modular Lift Aerodrome for Urban eVTOL Deployment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current transportation systems, including conventional vehicles and aircraft, are causing congestion and pollution, and there is a need for efficient, eco-friendly infrastructure to manage small, vertical take-off and landing aircraft, particularly in urban areas and for humanitarian and military applications.
Innovation Solution
A modular, lightweight aerodrome structure with a lift mechanism that allows for the construction and operation of vertical take-off and landing aircraft, featuring a tubular frame, platform, and lift mechanism that can be easily assembled and disassembled, providing a take-off and landing pad, and incorporating a hanger structure for aircraft storage and handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a traditional fixed aerodrome structure is used, then structural stability is improved, but adaptability to changing urban environments and ease of deployment deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The aerodrome structure is divided into modular components including tubular frame sections, platform modules, and cladding panels that can be independently assembled and disassembled. This segmentation enables the structure to be transported in compact units and reconfigured for different urban settings while maintaining structural integrity through standardized connection mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The structure incorporates dynamic characteristics through its collapsible tubular frame design that can transition between erected and collapsed states. The frame includes telescopic or hinged sections that allow the structure to be compacted for transport and then expanded to full height at the deployment location, providing adaptability without compromising structural stability when erected.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a modular aerodrome structure is used, then ease of deployment and adaptability are improved, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tubular frame serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the primary structural support, acts as a guide for platform ascent and descent, and forms the framework for attaching cladding and stabilization members. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying the overall structure despite its modular nature.
Solution Approach 2:
The platform and upper ring nest within the tubular frame when collapsed, with the platform able to slide up and down the frame sections. This nesting arrangement minimizes the volume required for transport and storage while allowing rapid deployment by simply extending the nested components, thereby reducing structural complexity.
3Strength
If heavy structural materials are used, then structural strength is improved, but weight and ease of transport deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The tubular frame and structural components are constructed from composite materials that combine high strength-to-weight ratio properties. These composites provide the necessary structural strength to support the platform and withstand operational loads while being light enough to enable manual or mechanical transport with minimal equipment.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the platform is raised to provide take-off and landing pad, then functionality is improved, but stability during operation may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
Stabilization members are pre-positioned at the base of the tubular frame before the platform is raised. These members extend outward to create a stable base that prevents tipping or shifting during platform operation. The preliminary placement of stabilization elements ensures operational stability is established before the platform reaches its elevated functional position.
Solution Approach 2:
The tubular frame acts as an intermediary structure that connects the stabilized base to the elevated platform. It transfers and distributes loads from the raised platform down to the stabilization members and ground, maintaining structural balance and stability throughout the platform's operational height.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3a~3c
AI summary
A lift structure for an aerodrome structure comprises: an upstanding tubular frame comprising an upper ring located over a base ring and supported thereon by columns; a platform located within the tubular frame; and a lift mechanism arranged to raise and lower the platform between the base ring and the upper ring. The columns are spaced apart from each other to provide a side opening for loading an aircraft onto the platform and unloading an aircraft therefrom when the platform is in a lowered position. The platform provides a take-off and landing pad for an aircraft when the platform is in a raised position. An aerodrome structure comprises the lift structure and additional elements.