Multicopter Launch and Retrieval of Fixed-Wing Aircraft Without Runways
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aircraft requiring long runways for take-off and landing limit their operational locations due to space constraints, necessitating new systems for launching and retrieving fixed-wing aircraft without traditional runways.
Innovation Solution
A rotorcraft-assisted system comprising a modular multicopter, storage and launch system, anchor system, flexible capture member, and aircraft-landing structure, enabling the launch and retrieval of fixed-wing aircraft into and from free flight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed-wing aircraft use traditional runways for take-off and landing, then they achieve stable and efficient flight operations, but they are limited to locations with sufficient space for runways
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the launch and retrieval operations into distinct functional components: a multicopter for vertical lift, a flexible capture member for aircraft engagement, and a ground-based anchor system. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while enabling operations in locations without traditional runways.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible capture member acts as an intermediary between the multicopter and the fixed-wing aircraft. It transfers mechanical energy and control forces from the rotorcraft to the fixed-wing aircraft during launch, and retrieves the aircraft during recovery, eliminating the need for conventional runway infrastructure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a rotorcraft-assisted launch system is implemented, then runway infrastructure is eliminated, but the system requires multiple complex components including multicopter, capture member, and anchor system
Solution Approach 1:
The multicopter serves multiple functions: it provides vertical lift during launch, acts as a flying platform for capturing the flexible line, and functions as a mobile anchor point during retrieval operations. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized equipment for each operation phase.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes changes in the physical state and configuration of components: the flexible capture member transitions from a coiled stored state to an extended operational state, the multicopter changes from ground-based to airborne configuration, and the anchor system adjusts from deployed to retracted positions. These parameter changes enable the system to adapt to different operational phases without requiring fundamentally different equipment.
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
Enables the launch and retrieval of fixed-wing aircraft without the need for runways, enhancing operational flexibility and accessibility.
Implementation Method 1
controls the multicopter to lift the fixed-wing aircraft to a desired altitude
Implementation Method 2
accelerate to a desired speed
Implementation Method 3
the anchor system regulates the tension in the flexible capture member
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a rotorcraft-assisted system and method for launching and retrieving a fixed-wing aircraft into and from free flight. The launch and retrieval system includes a modular multicopter, a storage and launch system, an anchor system, a flexible capture member, and an aircraft-landing structure. The multicopter is attachable to the fixed-wing aircraft to facilitate launching the fixed-wing aircraft into free, wing-borne flight. The storage and launch system is usable to store the multicopter (when disassembled) and to act as a launch mount for the fixed-wing aircraft by retaining the fixed-wing aircraft in a desired launch orientation. The anchor system is usable with the multicopter, the flexible capture member, and the aircraft-landing structure to retrieve the fixed-wing aircraft from free, wing-borne flight.