Selective Fan Coupling for Single-Motor Bidirectional Thrust
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for controlling suspended loads face inefficiencies and increased weight and complexity due to the use of multiple motors or bidirectional fans, which hinder the ability to output opposing thrust vectors efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A bidirectional thrust assembly using a single motor to drive two unidirectional fans, with a selective power transfer mechanism and freewheel assemblies to switch thrust vectors, reducing power consumption and system complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If two unidirectional fans driven by two separate motors are used to output opposing thrust vectors, then thrust efficiency is improved, but system weight and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate motors into a single motor that can selectively drive either the first unidirectional fan or the second unidirectional fan. This merging reduces the number of motors from two to one, thereby reducing system weight and complexity while maintaining the capability to produce opposing thrust vectors efficiently through selective engagement of one fan at a time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs a dynamic switching mechanism that allows a single motor to alternately engage with either the first fan or the second fan based on the desired thrust direction. This dynamic engagement strategy enables the system to adapt its configuration for optimal thrust efficiency in either direction without requiring two permanently connected motors, thus reducing overall system complexity.
2Device complexity
If a single bidirectional fan is used to output opposing thrust vectors, then system complexity is reduced, but thrust efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the bidirectional thrust function into two separate unidirectional fans, each optimized for thrust efficiency in one direction. Instead of using a single bidirectional fan with symmetric airfoils that compromises efficiency in both directions, the system divides the function into two specialized components, allowing each fan to operate at peak efficiency when engaged, thus resolving the trade-off between complexity and efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
Each fan is designed with asymmetric airfoils optimized for unidirectional operation, providing superior thrust efficiency in its designated direction. The first fan has airfoils optimized for one rotational direction while the second fan has airfoils optimized for the opposite direction. This local optimization of fan blade geometry ensures that whichever fan is engaged, it operates at maximum efficiency for the required thrust direction.
3Loss of energy
If two separate motors are used to drive two unidirectional fans, then thrust efficiency is improved, but system weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two separate motor units into a single motor unit that can selectively drive either fan through a switching mechanism. This consolidation eliminates the weight of one entire motor assembly, including its housing, mounting structures, and associated control systems, while maintaining the ability to deliver efficient thrust in both directions through selective engagement of the appropriate fan.
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 assembly provides efficient bidirectional thrust with reduced weight and power consumption, enhancing maneuverability and safety in operations involving suspended loads.
Implementation Method 1
a motor, the motor comprising a double ended driveshaft, the motor configured to rotate the double ended driveshaft in either a clockwise direction or a counterclockwise direction
Implementation Method 2
two unidirectional fans arranged in opposing directions... capable of stabilizing loads and maneuvering systems, enhancing safety and performance by dynamically controlling load position and yaw
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A bidirectional thrust assembly comprises a motor, a selective power transfer mechanism, and a plurality of fans; wherein a change in direction of rotation of the motor causes the selective power transfer mechanism to change a torque transfer among the plurality of fans, wherein the fans may be opposing, and wherein the fans may be unidirectional. The bidirectional thrust assembly may be used in or by a plurality of craft or with respect to other objects which may need to be maneuvered, included suspended load control systems, vertical takeoff and landing craft, watercraft.