Rotatable Members for Propulsive Force Vectoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mechanisms for redirecting propulsive force are cumbersome, slow, inefficient, and not cost-effective, making it difficult to change the direction of propulsive forces effectively.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing rotatable members in the path of ejected fluid, where motors spin these members to vector propulsive force by creating a second component of force through the Kutta-Joukowski lift phenomenon, allowing for efficient direction change of propulsive force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If existing mechanisms are used to redirect propulsive force, then the direction can be changed, but the mechanisms are cumbersome, slow, and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the propulsive force redirection into multiple independent rotatable members (first array and second array) that can be controlled separately. Each member independently generates force components, allowing complex directional changes through simple combination of individual member actions, thereby reducing overall system complexity while improving speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotatable members are designed to be dynamically controllable, spinning at variable speeds and directions to generate different force components. This dynamic control allows the system to rapidly adapt to different directional requirements without mechanical reconfiguration, eliminating the slowness and complexity of static redirecting mechanisms.
2Productivity
If existing mechanisms are used to redirect propulsive force, then direction change is possible, but the mechanisms are inefficient and not cost effective
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable members serve multiple functions: they generate the first force component from fluid ejection, generate the second force component through spinning, and collectively provide full propulsive force vectoring. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate redirecting mechanisms, improving efficiency while reducing complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces complex mechanical redirecting mechanisms with a fluid-dynamic system where spinning rotatable members generate forces through fluid interaction. This substitution eliminates cumbersome mechanical linkages and redirectors, improving efficiency and reducing system complexity.
3Speed
If rotatable members are spun to vector propulsive force, then rapid direction transition is enabled, but additional moving parts are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges the propulsive force generation and direction control functions into a single integrated system. The rotatable members that generate thrust are the same members that control direction through spinning, eliminating the need for separate redirecting mechanisms and reducing the total number of moving parts while enabling rapid mode transition.
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 rapid transition between different modes of travel, such as vertical lift and horizontal thrust, by effectively vectoring propulsive force, improving operational efficiency and reducing the need for multiple moving parts.
Implementation Method 1
The flow of the ejected fluid around the rotatable members when spinning provides a second component of propulsive force
Data Source
AI summary
A propulsive force imparted to an object is vectored using rotatable members arranged in one or more arrays disposed in the path of a fluid ejected by a fluid accelerator unit, such as air ejected by a fan driven by a gas turbine engine. The propulsive force is vectored by changing the rotation of one or more of the rotatable members.