Propeller Control Mechanism for Coaxial Rotor Vehicles
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing propeller control mechanisms for aerial, surface, and underwater vehicles require complex multi-actuator systems and mechanisms, which are inefficient and limit the size and maneuverability of vehicles, particularly coaxial rotor vehicles, due to excessive flapping, lead-lag, and feathering motion ranges.
Innovation Solution
A propeller control mechanism with a central axis and interconnected components that allow controlled rotation around multiple axes, maintaining a fixed angle between the propeller blade's feathering axis and rotary axis, optimizing the range of motion and eliminating the need for multiple actuators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional multi-actuator systems are used for propeller control, then attitude control capability is achieved, but device complexity increases and vehicle size is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple control functions (flapping, lead-lag, and feathering control) into a single integrated control mechanism. The control system merges the functions of multiple actuators into one unified mechanism that can simultaneously manage all three blade motion types, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining full attitude control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The control mechanism is designed with universal functionality to handle multiple control objectives through a single system. The mechanism can perform flapping control, lead-lag control, and feathering control within a unified structure, making the system multi-functional and eliminating the need for separate dedicated actuators for each control function.
2Ease of operation
If propeller blades are allowed to change flapping, lead-lag, and feathering motion simultaneously, then attitude control is achieved, but the operating range becomes excessive and vehicle size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control of propeller blade motions through a mechanism that allows real-time adjustment of flapping, lead-lag, and feathering angles. The system dynamically optimizes the operating range of each motion type during operation, enabling attitude control while preventing excessive displacement that would increase vehicle size. The dynamic adjustment ensures blades operate within optimal angular ranges.
Solution Approach 2:
The control mechanism changes the operational parameters (angular ranges) of propeller blade motions to achieve optimal performance. By adjusting the permissible ranges of flapping, lead-lag, and feathering motions within controlled limits, the system maintains effective attitude control capability while preventing excessive motion ranges that would require larger vehicle structures to accommodate.
3Measurement precision
If multiple actuators are used for thrust and moment objectives, then control precision is improved, but energy consumption increases and operating time decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple actuator functions into a single control mechanism that can achieve both thrust and moment control objectives. This consolidation reduces the total number of actuators required, thereby decreasing energy consumption while maintaining control precision through the integrated mechanism's ability to coordinate all control functions simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The control mechanism is designed with universal capability to handle multiple control objectives (thrust and moment control) through a single system. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate actuators for different control tasks, reducing overall energy consumption while preserving precise control authority across all degrees of freedom.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a propeller control mechanism comprising a center, a first group, and a second group. This mechanism is capable of controlling the angle of attack of the propeller blades without auxiliary actuators or external linkages and minimizing the propeller blades' motion range. Furthermore, this mechanism is applicable not only to aerial vehicles but also to vehicles on the surface of water or underwater.