Modular Multicopter Launch and Retrieval for Runway-Free Fixed-Wing Flight
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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 a system for launching and retrieving fixed-wing aircraft without the need for extensive runways.
Innovation Solution
A rotorcraft-assisted launch and retrieval 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 from and to free flight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed-wing aircraft uses conventional take-off and landing methods, then it achieves efficient long-distance cruising flight, but it requires long runways which are not available at many locations
Solution Approach 1:
A rotorcraft (multicopter) is introduced as an intermediary vehicle to assist the fixed-wing aircraft during launch and retrieval operations. The rotorcraft provides vertical lift capability, enabling the fixed-wing aircraft to be lifted and accelerated to flight speed without requiring a long runway. This mediator system allows the fixed-wing aircraft to operate from locations with limited space while maintaining its efficient long-distance cruising capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The take-off and landing process is divided into distinct phases: (1) the rotorcraft lifts the fixed-wing aircraft vertically to a desired altitude, (2) the rotorcraft accelerates the fixed-wing aircraft horizontally to flight speed, and (3) the fixed-wing aircraft is released for free flight. This segmentation of the conventional single-runway process enables the operation to be performed in confined spaces without requiring a long continuous runway.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a rotorcraft-assisted launch system is implemented, then the need for long runways is eliminated, but the system complexity increases due to multiple components including multicopter, storage and launch system, anchor system, and retrieval system
Solution Approach 1:
The rotorcraft is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as both the launch assistance vehicle (providing vertical lift and horizontal acceleration) and the retrieval vehicle (catching and lowering the fixed-wing aircraft). The storage and launch system, anchor system, and retrieval system are integrated to work together as a coordinated ensemble, reducing the need for separate specialized equipment for each phase of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixed-wing aircraft is mounted on the rotorcraft in a pre-configured launch orientation before the launch sequence begins. The rotorcraft positions and orients the fixed-wing aircraft at the desired launch attitude, and the storage and launch system is prepared in advance to retain the fixed-wing aircraft in the correct position. This preliminary preparation simplifies the actual launch execution and reduces the complexity of real-time control during the critical launch phase.
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 in confined spaces, overcoming the need for long runways by using a modular multicopter system that facilitates both launch and retrieval processes efficiently.
Implementation Method 1
controls the rotorcraft to lift the fixed-wing aircraft to a desired altitude and to accelerate to a desired speed
Implementation Method 2
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.