Centrifugal Fan Thrust Vectoring for VTOL Aircraft
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional single propulsion systems and dedicated propulsion systems for VTOL aircraft increase cost, complexity, and weight, necessitating an improved propulsor solution for efficient thrust vectoring.
Innovation Solution
A thrust vectoring system utilizing a centrifugal fan and nozzle, where the fan and nozzle can be controllably oriented to vector thrust in various directions, including vertical take-off, forward cruising, and transition phases, using a drive shaft and mechanism to rotate the fan and nozzle for efficient thrust direction control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional single propulsion systems or dedicated propulsion systems are used for VTOL aircraft, then vertical take-off and landing capability is achieved, but the cost, complexity, and weight of the aircraft significantly increase
Solution Approach 1:
The centrifugal fan is designed to perform multiple functions: generating vertical thrust for take-off and landing, and generating horizontal thrust for forward flight. By orienting the same propulsion device in different directions, the system eliminates the need for separate propulsion systems for vertical and horizontal flight, thereby reducing complexity while maintaining VTOL capability
Solution Approach 2:
The centrifugal fan is mounted on a rotatable mechanism that allows dynamic reorientation of the thrust vector. The fan can be tilted or rotated to change the direction of thrust output, enabling transition between vertical and horizontal flight modes. This dynamic adjustment capability allows a single propulsion system to adapt to different flight phases without requiring multiple fixed propulsion devices
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional single propulsion systems or dedicated propulsion systems are used for VTOL aircraft, then vertical take-off and landing capability is achieved, but the weight of the aircraft significantly increases
Solution Approach 1:
A single centrifugal fan propulsion system is designed to provide both vertical lift and horizontal propulsion forces. This eliminates the weight penalty of carrying multiple separate propulsion systems (such as dedicated lift fans and propellers) by using one multi-functional device that can operate in different thrust directions depending on flight phase
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the functions of vertical lift generation and horizontal propulsion into a single centrifugal fan system. By combining these functions in one device rather than using separate systems, the overall weight of the propulsion subsystem is reduced while maintaining the ability to perform both vertical take-off/landing and forward flight operations
3Ease of operation
If tilt mechanisms are used to physically translate or rotate propulsors between vertical and horizontal orientations, then thrust vectoring capability is achieved, but the complexity and weight of the aircraft increase
Solution Approach 1:
The centrifugal fan system is designed as a universal propulsion device that can generate thrust in multiple directions. The same fan structure serves both vertical and horizontal propulsion needs, eliminating the requirement for complex tilt mechanisms that would be needed if separate fixed-orientation propulsors were used
Solution Approach 2:
The centrifugal fan is mounted on a rotatable mechanism that enables dynamic reorientation of the thrust vector. This rotational capability allows the single fan to dynamically adjust its thrust direction between vertical and horizontal orientations, providing thrust vectoring functionality without requiring multiple separate tilt mechanisms for different propulsors
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
This solution reduces the complexity and weight of VTOL aircraft by enabling efficient thrust vectoring, allowing for vertical take-off and landing, forward cruising, and transition phases with reduced operational complexity and cost.
Implementation Method 1
a centrifugal fan configured to redirect and form a flow of air into an exhaust along a second direction
Implementation Method 2
the thrust vectoring system is configured to controllably orient at least one of, the centrifugal fan or the nozzle, to vector a thrust generated by the exhaust
Implementation Method 3
the centrifugal fan is positioned to gyroscopically stabilize the aircraft when the centrifugal fan is operating
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus including a thrust vectoring system including a centrifugal fan and a nozzle configured to output an exhaust from the centrifugal fan, wherein the thrust vectoring system is configured to controllably orient at least one of, the centrifugal fan or the nozzle, to vector a thrust generated by the exhaust.