Straddling Flying Cycle with Redirectable Jet Exhaust
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a lack of vertical take-off and landing aircraft designed for public use that allows a pilot to straddle the fuselage, as existing VTOL aircraft are primarily combat or transportation vehicles with enclosed cockpits.
Innovation Solution
A flying cycle apparatus with a fuselage that enables vertical take-off and landing, featuring downward pointing jet exhaust ports, wings with ailerons, and a control panel, allowing a pilot to straddle the fuselage and control the aircraft for stable flight and forward motion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If existing VTOL aircraft designs are used, then vertical take-off and landing capability is achieved, but the cockpit is enclosed and the pilot cannot straddle the fuselage
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the cockpit enclosure from the fuselage structure, removing the traditional enclosed cockpit design. This allows the pilot to straddle the fuselage externally while the jet engine and exhaust systems remain integrated within the fuselage, resolving the contradiction between pilot positioning and structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The fuselage is segmented into distinct functional zones: the jet engine compartment, the exhaust port system, and the open straddling area. This segmentation allows the pilot position to be reconfigured without compromising the integrity of the propulsion system, enabling external pilot positioning while maintaining structural functionality
2Adaptability or versatility
If jet engine is integrated into fuselage for VTOL, then vertical take-off and landing is enabled, but control of exhaust direction becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The exhaust ports are designed as dynamic, movable components that can rotate and redirect exhaust flow. This dynamic capability allows the same jet engine system to provide both vertical thrust for take-off/landing and horizontal thrust for forward flight, enabling multiple flight modes without requiring separate propulsion systems
Solution Approach 2:
The jet engine and exhaust system are designed as a universal propulsion system that performs multiple functions: vertical lift during take-off and landing, forward thrust during flight, and directional control. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate control systems for different flight phases, managing complexity while enhancing adaptability
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 safe and controlled vertical take-off, hovering, and forward flight, providing a unique and accessible flying experience for the general public, while maintaining stability and maneuverability similar to conventional aircraft.
Implementation Method 1
jet engine 16, which produces thrust for the cycle
Implementation Method 2
redirecting the jet engine exhaust as desired, apparatus 10 can lift and drop vertically
Data Source
AI summary
A flying cycle apparatus comprises a fuselage and a pair of wings extending laterally from the fuselage to provide lift. A jet engine is mounted within the fuselage with the air intake thereof extending through the front of the fuselage. The jet engine has a jet exhaust extending through the rear thereof with one or more jet exhaust ports extending downwardly through the bottom thereof. The one or more jet exhaust ports provide vertical take off and landing capability. A pilot seat is positioned on top of the fuselage with the pilot seat being adapted to have a pilot's legs straddle the fuselage. The pilot seat if further adapted to have an occupant able to access to a control panel. The control panel has means for controlling the proportion of jet exhaust exiting from each of the jet exhaust and jet exhaust ports. The control panel further including a control joystick which allows the user to maintain a stable position during vertical take off and landing maneuvers and to turn and bank when flying.