Multirotor Aerial Vehicle Tilt Motor Assemblies
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aerial vehicles configured for multiple flight modes face challenges in efficiently transitioning between forward and vertical flight operations due to the need for different propulsion systems and control surfaces, which complicates mission requirements and increases complexity.
Innovation Solution
The design of a versatile multirotor aerial vehicle with a single wing and variable tilt motor assemblies that can rotate propellers about horizontal or vertical axes, allowing for seamless transitions between flight modes by reorienting the tilt motor assemblies and starting/stopping propulsion motors, along with booms and cameras for navigation and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If different propulsion systems and control surfaces are used for forward and vertical flight modes, then the aerial vehicle can operate in multiple flight modes, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by enabling a single propulsion system to perform multiple functions. The motor assemblies can operate in different configurations to provide both forward thrust for horizontal flight and vertical lift for vertical flight, eliminating the need for separate propulsion systems for each mode. This multi-functional design reduces overall system complexity while maintaining adaptability across flight modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics through variable tilt motor assemblies that can rotate and reorient themselves. The motor assemblies are capable of changing their orientation angles dynamically to transition between forward flight configuration (horizontal thrust) and vertical flight configuration (vertical lift). This dynamic reconfiguration allows a single propulsion system to adapt to different flight modes without requiring multiple fixed systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If different control surfaces are used for forward and vertical flight modes, then the aerial vehicle can operate in multiple flight modes, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control surfaces are designed with multi-functionality to serve both forward and vertical flight modes. The same control surfaces can be configured to provide aerodynamic control during horizontal flight and adjusted to provide control during vertical flight operations. This universal control surface design eliminates the need for separate control systems for each mode, reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The control surfaces are made dynamic through variable geometry mechanisms that allow them to change their configuration and orientation. The control surfaces can be rotated, tilted, or repositioned to provide appropriate aerodynamic forces for different flight modes. This dynamic adaptability enables a single set of control surfaces to replace multiple specialized control systems.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple propulsion systems are used for mode transitions, then forward and vertical flight can be achieved, but the transition efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The variable tilt motor assemblies enable continuous and smooth transitions between flight modes by dynamically adjusting their orientation. Instead of discrete switching between separate propulsion systems, the motor assemblies can rotate through intermediate angles to provide progressive transition from horizontal to vertical thrust vectors. This continuous adjustment capability improves transition efficiency and reduces the time required for mode changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The propulsion system maintains continuous useful action during mode transitions through the variable tilt mechanism. As the motor assemblies rotate from horizontal to vertical orientation, they continuously provide thrust in the transitioning direction, ensuring uninterrupted propulsion throughout the transition process. This eliminates idle periods or gaps in propulsion that would occur with discrete system switching, thereby improving transition efficiency.
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 efficient and stable operation in both forward and vertical flight modes with reduced complexity, allowing for precise control and payload handling, while minimizing drag and enhancing safety during landing and takeoff.
Implementation Method 1
variable tilt motor assemblies that can rotate propellers about horizontal or vertical axes
Implementation Method 2
the aerial vehicle may be maintained aloft by one or more net forces of lift that are typically induced by airflow passing over and below wings, consistent with a pressure gradient
Data Source
AI summary
An aerial vehicle having a single wing is configured for vertical-flight and forward-flight operations. The wing has a substantially high aspect ratio. The aerial vehicle includes tilt motor assemblies disposed at a forward end and an aft end of a fuselage. The tilt motor assemblies are configured to orient motors and rotors vertically, horizontally, or at any angle between vertical and horizontal. A pair of parallel booms are mounted beneath the wing on either side of the fuselage. Each of the booms has at least one vertically oriented motor and rotor associated therewith, and a vertical fin extending thereunder. Additionally, a forward tilt motor assembly includes a rotatable extension that is deployed when the motor assembly is configured for vertical flight, enabling the aerial vehicle to land on the vertical fins and the landing rotatable extension.