Hybrid-Electric VTOL Powertrain Split for Range and Drag

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Solution Overview

Problem

VTOL aircraft face limitations in range due to reduced efficiency during forward flight, particularly with electric propulsion systems, and historical designs are constrained by the low energy density of batteries and mechanical complexity of internal combustion engines.

Innovation Solution

A hybrid-electric VTOL aircraft design segregates VTOL and forward flight powertrains, utilizing electric motors for vertical lift and ICEs for forward thrust, with a computer system managing transitions between operational modes and an onboard generator recharging batteries during forward flight.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of energy

If electric propulsion systems are used for forward flight, then environmental friendliness and efficiency are improved, but operational range is limited due to low battery energy density

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveenergy efficiencyVSAvoidoperational range

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of energyVSDuration of action of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The powertrain is segmented into two independent systems: electric motors for VTOL operations and internal combustion engines for forward flight. This segmentation allows each system to operate in its optimal performance regime, with the electric system providing efficient vertical lift and the ICE system providing extended range for forward flight.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The hybrid powertrain system provides multi-functionality by combining electric motors and internal combustion engines to deliver both vertical lift and forward thrust capabilities, enabling the aircraft to operate in multiple modes (VTOL, forward flight, transition) while optimizing energy efficiency and extending operational range.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Duration of action of moving object

If internal combustion engines are used for forward flight, then operational range is extended, but mechanical complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperational rangeVSAvoidpowertrain complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Duration of action of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The powertrain is divided into separate VTOL and forward flight systems, allowing the complex ICE components to be isolated and managed independently from the electric VTOL system. This segmentation simplifies overall system management while maintaining extended range capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The onboard electrical generator is mechanically coupled to the forward flight powertrain to automatically recharge batteries during forward flight operations, creating a self-sustaining energy system that extends operational range without requiring external recharging infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Force

If VTOL powertrains are externally mounted, then vertical thrust generation is optimized, but aerodynamic drag increases during forward flight

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevertical thrustVSAvoidaerodynamic drag

Core Design Contradiction:

ForceVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The VTOL powertrains are segregated into dedicated external mounting positions optimized for vertical thrust generation, while the forward flight powertrains are positioned to minimize aerodynamic drag. This spatial segmentation allows each system to be optimized for its specific function without compromising the other.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

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

Enhances operational range and efficiency by optimizing powertrain configurations, minimizing drag, and extending battery life without ground-based recharging, while maintaining maneuverability and accessibility.

Implementation Method 1

one or more VTOL powertrains supported by the airframe each comprising one or more rotor blades and an electric motor for rotating the one or more rotor blades about a rotational axis to generate vertical thrust

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

an airframe comprising at least a pair of fixed wings for generating vertical lift when the VTOL aircraft is in a forward flight operational mode

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAerodynamic lift: Aerofoil

Implementation Method 3

one or more forward flight powertrains separate from the one or more VTOL powertrains and supported by the airframe each comprising a prime mover to generate forward thrust

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCombustion: Combustion

Data Source

PatentUS20250353590A1Hybrid-electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft

Publication Date: 2025.11.20 TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY

AI summary

A hybrid-electric VTOL aircraft includes an airframe including at least a pair of fixed wings, one or more VTOL powertrains supported by the airframe each including one or more rotor blades and an electric motor for rotating the one or more rotor blades about a rotational axis, one or more forward flight powertrains separate from the one or more VTOL powertrains and supported by the airframe each including a prime, and a computer system in signal communication with the one or more VTOL powertrains and the one or more forward flight powertrains.