Rotorcraft Retrieval System for Fixed-Wing Aircraft
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fixed-wing aircraft require long runways for takeoff and landing, limiting their use in areas without sufficient space, and existing aircraft-launch and retrieval systems are inefficient for these aircraft.
Innovation Solution
A rotorcraft-assisted aircraft retrieval system with a winch-equipped retrieval assembly that includes a base, drum, motor, and flexible capture member, allowing a rotorcraft to retrieve a fixed-wing aircraft from wing-borne flight by winding the capture member around the drum and drawing the aircraft closer for landing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed-wing aircraft use long runways for takeoff and landing, then efficient cruising flight is achieved, but the aircraft cannot be used in areas without sufficient space
Solution Approach 1:
A rotorcraft serves as an intermediary platform to launch and retrieve the fixed-wing aircraft. The rotorcraft hovers in place or moves slowly while the fixed-wing aircraft takes off from or lands on its wings, eliminating the need for long runways. This mediator approach allows the fixed-wing aircraft to operate in constrained spaces without requiring traditional runway infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The launch and retrieval operation transitions from a ground-based horizontal runway system to an aerial three-dimensional system. The rotorcraft hovers in the air space above the constrained area, and the fixed-wing aircraft takes off by running along the rotorcraft's wings or is launched directly into the air, utilizing vertical and lateral dimensions instead of horizontal ground space.
2Productivity
If existing aircraft-launch and retrieval systems are used, then aircraft can be launched without runways, but the systems are inefficient for fixed-wing aircraft
Solution Approach 1:
The rotorcraft is designed with multi-functionality to serve both as a transportation platform and as a launch/retrieval system for fixed-wing aircraft. The rotorcraft's wings serve dual purposes: providing lift for the rotorcraft itself and serving as a runway or launch surface for the fixed-wing aircraft. This universal design eliminates the need for separate specialized equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The launch and retrieval functions are merged with the rotorcraft's primary flight capabilities. Instead of using separate ground-based launchers or cranes, the rotorcraft integrates the launch surface (wings) and propulsion system into a single aerial platform that can hover and move to position the fixed-wing aircraft for optimal launch and retrieval operations.
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 the retrieval of fixed-wing aircraft from wing-borne flight without the need for a runway, facilitating efficient launch and retrieval operations in constrained spaces.
Implementation Method 1
The flexible capture member is wound around the drum
Implementation Method 2
The operator remotely controls the rotorcraft to fly into the wind
Implementation Method 3
The tensioning object is attached to the attachment device
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides various embodiments of an aircraft retrieval system including winch-equipped retrieval assembly that is removably attachable to a rotorcraft to facilitate retrieval of a fixed-wing aircraft from wing-borne flight.