Modular Lifting Body With Thrust Vectoring for Multi-Domain VTOL
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current aerial vehicles, such as VTOL and STOL platforms, are limited in their ability to operate in multiple domains and environments due to compromised aerodynamic and powered lift capabilities, leading to restricted operational breadth and payload capacity.
Innovation Solution
A universal vehicle system with a lifting body composed of modular components that utilize thrust vectoring modules to dynamically control pitch, roll, and yaw, enabling seamless transitions between vertical and horizontal flight modes, and operation in aerial, terrestrial, subterranean, and marine domains with adaptive aerodynamic and hydrodynamic properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If VTOL and STOL platforms are designed for vertical and short take-off/landing capabilities, then operational versatility in multiple domains is improved, but aerodynamic performance and payload capacity are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamically adjustable wing geometry through morphing airfoils and variable sweep wings that can change their shape and orientation in real-time. This allows the aircraft to optimize aerodynamic performance for different flight regimes (vertical, transitional, and horizontal flight) without compromising payload capacity, resolving the contradiction between versatility and aerodynamic strength
Solution Approach 2:
The aircraft design integrates multiple flight capabilities (VTOL, STOL, and conventional aerodynamic flight) into a single platform using a unified wing structure that can adapt its configuration. The wing serves multiple functions across different operational domains, eliminating the need for separate specialized vehicles and maintaining aerodynamic performance across all modes
2Adaptability or versatility
If thrust vectoring modules are used for dynamic control of pitch, roll, and yaw, then operational flexibility in diverse environments is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines thrust vectoring capabilities directly into the wing structure itself, where the wings serve both aerodynamic and propulsion functions. This integration eliminates separate complex control systems and reduces overall system complexity while maintaining operational flexibility across diverse environments
3Quantity of substance
If modular components are used for lift generation and propulsion, then payload capacity is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The aircraft employs modular wing sections that can be independently manufactured and assembled. Each module contains integrated lift and propulsion capabilities, allowing for standardized manufacturing processes that reduce precision requirements while maintaining overall system performance and maximizing payload capacity
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 system achieves enhanced operational flexibility, reduced power consumption, and increased payload capacity by leveraging modular design and thrust vectoring for efficient lift generation and propulsion, allowing for safe and stable operation in diverse environments.
Implementation Method 1
dynamically controlled mechanisms for real-time control either of pitch, roll, yaw moments, or combinations thereof by dynamically manipulating (passively and/or actively) the vehicles' characteristics which may include either of center of thrust, moment arm of center of thrust related to the center of gravity, thrust orientation
Implementation Method 2
dynamically manipulating (passively and/or actively) the vehicles' characteristics which may include either of center of thrust, moment arm of center of thrust related to the center of gravity
Implementation Method 3
a lifting body composed of a plurality of interconnected modules which are configured to form an aerodynamically viable contour of a lift generating body
Implementation Method 4
operatively coupled to respective propulsive mechanisms (devices)... dynamically displaced (in tilting and/or translating fashion) to direct and actuate the propulsive mechanism(s)
Implementation Method 5
plurality of inertial measurement unit, compass, magnetometer, guidance and navigation supporting sensors
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle is described having an aerodynamically contoured lifting body comprising a plurality of cooperating body modules, wherein at least two of the modules are displaceably secured to each other. The modules include a thrust vectoring module operatively coupled to a propulsive mechanism. The thrust vectoring module is dynamically controlled to affect positioning and actuation of the propulsive mechanism to attain a desired positioning of the vehicle and at least one of a plurality of modes of operation thereof. The thrust vectoring module includes a nacelle module carrying the propulsive mechanism thereon and rotatably displaceable about one or more axes extending from the lifting body. The propulsive mechanism is positioned externally, internally, or in combinations thereof of the nacelle module and is tiltably displaceable about one or more axes of the nacelle module.