Self-orienting VTOL Propulsor via Motor Direction Reversal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional VTOL aircraft propulsion systems using pivoting propulsor units are heavy, complex, and costly due to the need for inline motors and actuators to change propulsor orientations during flight phases.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing an electric motor with a drive shaft to pivot a propulsor between lift and thrust orientations by reversing the motor direction, eliminating the need for additional actuators through the use of stationary and rotational stop members within a bearing, allowing the propulsor unit to rotate between orientations without external actuation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional inline motors and actuators are used to change propulsor orientations, then the propulsor can switch between lift and thrust modes, but the system weight and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the separate actuator component from the traditional motor-actuator system. By using a bearing with stop members that interact with the drive shaft, the orientation switching function is achieved without requiring additional actuating mechanisms, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The bearing assembly with stop members serves multiple functions: it supports the drive shaft, controls orientation switching through stop members engaging at specific positions, and eliminates the need for separate actuators. This multi-functionality reduces the overall system complexity while maintaining the propulsor's ability to switch between orientations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional inline motors and actuators are used to change propulsor orientations, then the propulsor can switch between lift and thrust modes, but the system weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the separate actuator component that would traditionally be needed for orientation switching. By integrating the orientation control function into the bearing assembly with stop members, the overall system weight is reduced while maintaining the capability to switch between lift and thrust modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The drive shaft itself interacts with the stop members in the bearing to achieve orientation switching without requiring additional actuators. The system uses the existing drive shaft's motion and positioning capability to accomplish what would traditionally require separate actuating mechanisms, thereby reducing weight.
3Ease of operation
If traditional actuators are used to orient the propulsor assembly, then precise orientation control is achieved, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the expensive actuator component by using a bearing assembly with stop members that provide orientation control through mechanical engagement. This approach maintains precise orientation control at critical positions (lift and thrust modes) while significantly reducing manufacturing cost by removing the actuator and its associated complexity.
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 simplifies the propulsion system by reducing weight and complexity, enabling efficient orientation changes between lift and thrust modes solely through motor direction reversal, thereby improving VTOL aircraft performance.
Implementation Method 1
an electric motor. A drive shaft is connected to be driven by the electric motor
Implementation Method 2
The propulsor unit can be mounted to the main aircraft body with a bearing that is configured to allow the propulsor unit to rotate relative to the main aircraft body
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes an electric motor. A drive shaft is connected to be driven by the electric motor. A propulsor is connected to be driven by the shaft. The propulsor is configured to pivot to a first orientation configured to produce lift when the motor rotates the shaft in a first direction, and to pivot to a second orientation configured to produce thrust when the motor rotates the shaft in a second direction that is opposite of the first direction.