Omnidirectional Thrust Mechanism for Aircraft Flight Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current aircraft thrust systems, such as those used in V/STOL aircraft, are limited in maneuverability and effectiveness at both high and low speeds, particularly requiring additional valves for directional control and being inefficient at higher speeds.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of an omnidirectional thrust mechanism (OTM) with pivotable panels and a nozzle system, allowing for independent control of top and bottom panels relative to a center member, and the use of compressed gas to provide thrust in multiple directions, including yaw, roll, and vertical control.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If current shutter valve mechanisms are used for directional thrust control, then the aircraft can achieve vertical and short take-off and landing capabilities, but the device complexity increases and maneuverability is limited to only two directions

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedirectional control capabilityVSAvoidnumber of valves required

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The thrust mechanism is divided into multiple independently controllable panels (first panel, second panel, third panel, fourth panel) that can be selectively positioned to direct thrust in different directions. This segmentation allows the system to achieve multi-directional control without requiring multiple complete valve assemblies, as each panel can be independently actuated to create the desired thrust vector.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A single thrust mechanism structure serves multiple functions by enabling thrust direction control in at least three different directions through the coordinated positioning of multiple panels. This universal design eliminates the need for separate valve mechanisms for each direction, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining versatility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple valves are added to provide thrust in additional directions, then maneuverability improves, but the device complexity and weight increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenumber of thrust directionsVSAvoidweight of thrust mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple panel structures and their support elements are merged into a single integrated thrust mechanism assembly. The first, second, third, and fourth panels are combined with common support structures and actuation systems, allowing the system to provide multi-directional thrust capability without the weight penalty of multiple separate valve mechanisms. The shared structural elements reduce overall weight while maintaining the ability to direct thrust in multiple directions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Speed

If current thrust mechanisms are used at higher speeds, then the aircraft can maintain flight control, but the mechanisms become ineffective and add unnecessary weight and cost

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperational speed rangeVSAvoideffectiveness across speed ranges

Core Design Contradiction:

SpeedVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The panel structures are designed to be dynamically positionable, allowing them to be adjusted based on flight conditions and speed. The ability to actively reposition panels enables the mechanism to remain effective across a wide speed range, from low-speed vertical flight to higher-speed horizontal flight, adapting to different aerodynamic requirements without becoming ineffective at any particular speed regime.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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

Enhances aircraft maneuverability by providing thrust in four or more directions from hover to high-speed flight, minimizing drag when not in use, and maintaining effectiveness across a range of speeds.

Implementation Method 1

a nozzle directed at the center member and operable to direct compressed gas toward the center member

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCompressed gas flow: Pressure Gradient

Implementation Method 2

The top panel is pivotable relative to the center member... The bottom panel is pivotable relative to the center member... providing thrust in four or more directions

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectGas redirection through pivoting panels: Pressure Gradient

Data Source

PatentUS10611465B2Aircraft and flight control mechanisms used on aircraft

Publication Date: 2020.04.07 THE BOEING CO

AI summary

Provided are flight control mechanisms, such as omnidirectional thrust mechanisms (OTMs), and methods of using such mechanisms. These mechanisms may be positioned in wings, tails, or other components of aircraft. A mechanism may comprise a center member and top and bottom panels. The center member may comprise two curved segments joint at a center edge. The top and bottom panels may be independently pivotable relative to the center member. At high speeds, the top panel and/or the bottom panel may be pivoted outward to change the lift, drag, roll, and/or other flight conditions. The mechanism may also include a gas nozzle to direct compressed gas to the center member. The center member and/or the top and bottom panels redirect this gas resulting in forces in one of four directions, which are used for controlling the aircraft at low speeds, down to hover.