Propulsion Module Actuator Synchronizes Door and Propeller
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current air mobility vehicles require separate actuators for raising and lowering propellers and opening/closing boom doors, leading to increased weight and cost, while also experiencing drag during cruising due to exposed propellers.
Innovation Solution
A propulsion module that uses a single actuator to synchronize the raising/lowering of a propeller with the opening/closing of a door, allowing the propeller to be folded inside during cruising, reducing drag and improving aerodynamics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If separate actuators are used for raising/lowering propeller and opening/closing door, then each component can be controlled independently, but weight and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the control of propeller raising/lowering and door opening/closing into a single actuator system. The actuator is connected to both the propeller assembly and the door through linkages, allowing one actuator to perform both functions simultaneously, thereby reducing the total number of actuators and associated weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The single actuator is designed with multi-functionality to perform both propeller positioning and door control operations. Through appropriate linkage mechanisms, the actuator's motion is transmitted to both the propeller assembly and the door, enabling one component to fulfill multiple roles in the system.
2Power
If propeller is exposed during cruising, then propulsion is maintained, but drag increases and aerodynamics deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic configuration where the propeller can be positioned in different states (exposed or retracted) based on the operational requirements. During cruising, the propeller is retracted into the housing to reduce drag, while during takeoff or landing, it is extended to provide propulsion. This dynamic adjustment optimizes performance for different flight phases.
Solution Approach 2:
The propeller assembly is designed to be nestable within the housing structure. When not in use during cruising, the propeller is retracted inside the housing, effectively hiding it from the external airflow and reducing aerodynamic drag. The housing acts as a protective enclosure that accommodates the propeller when it needs to be stored.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If propeller is retracted inside housing during cruising, then drag is reduced, but propulsion capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the propeller position based on operational needs. During cruising, the propeller is retracted to minimize drag, while during takeoff or landing phases, it is extended to provide necessary propulsion. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the vehicle to optimize performance for different flight conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The propeller is extended in advance before takeoff or landing operations are required. The actuator anticipates the need for propulsion and positions the propeller in the appropriate state beforehand, ensuring that propulsion capability is immediately available when needed without delay.
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
The solution enables efficient use of a single actuator to deploy and retract the propeller while managing the door, reducing weight, cost, and drag, thereby enhancing the aerodynamic performance of air mobility vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
a link assembly having a first end portion connected to the housing and a second end portion connected to the propeller to pull the propeller into the internal space of the housing through the opening portion or pull the propeller outside the internal space through the opening portion
Implementation Method 2
A gas lifter may be provided between the door and the housing, so that the door constantly receives force in a closing direction thereof
Data Source
AI summary
A propulsion module of an air mobility vehicle may include a door provided in the housing and opening or closing the opening portion of the housing by a sliding motion of the door; a propeller for providing propulsion to the air mobility vehicle; a link assembly having a first end portion connected to the housing and a second end portion connected to the propeller to pull the propeller into the internal space of the housing through the opening portion or pull the propeller outside the internal space through the opening portion; and a door opening and closing portion coupled to the door and configured for providing an opening and closing force to the door according to an inward-pulling motion or an outward-pulling motion of the propeller.