VTOL Rotor Assembly for Fixed-Wing Aircraft
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current aircraft require extensive runway space and are hindered by nearby obstacles during takeoff, limiting their ability to perform vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) operations.
Innovation Solution
A VTOL assembly is integrated into fixed-wing aircraft, featuring a plurality of multi-copter rotors, a motor system with sufficient power capacity, and a choice of power sources (batteries, compressed air, or combustion engines) to enable vertical takeoff, landing, and hovering capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If conventional fixed-wing aircraft use traditional runway takeoff methods, then they can achieve stable flight, but they require extensive runway space and are hindered by nearby obstacles
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the aircraft's propulsion system into two independent segments: conventional fixed-wing propulsion for horizontal flight and a separate VTOL assembly with rotors for vertical movement. This segmentation allows the aircraft to perform vertical takeoffs and landings using the rotor system, eliminating the need for long runways while maintaining conventional flight capabilities through the wing propulsion system.
Solution Approach 2:
The VTOL assembly is designed to be universally applicable to various fixed-wing aircraft types. The system can be integrated into existing aircraft structures and provides multiple functions: vertical takeoff, vertical landing, and hovering capability. This multi-functionality enables the aircraft to operate from unprepared ground and avoids the need for extensive runway infrastructure.
2Ease of operation
If ducted fan type VTOL aircraft are used, then vertical takeoff and landing is achieved, but excessive velocity of the downwardly directed air stream severely erodes the landing surface
Solution Approach 1:
The invention employs lifting rotors with adjustable pitch angles and variable blade geometry, allowing different parts of the rotor system to have different aerodynamic characteristics. The rotor blades can be configured to generate lift more efficiently while reducing the velocity of downwardly directed air streams, thereby minimizing erosion of the landing surface during vertical operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows dynamic adjustment of rotor operating parameters including pitch angle, rotational speed, and blade geometry. By optimizing these parameters during vertical takeoff and landing, the aircraft can achieve vertical movement while controlling the velocity of air streams to prevent excessive erosion of the landing surface.
3Ease of operation
If tilt-rotor type VTOL aircraft are used, then vertical takeoff is achieved, but speed is limited to below 400 miles per hour
Solution Approach 1:
The aircraft propulsion system is segmented into two independent systems: the VTOL assembly with rotors handles vertical takeoff and low-speed operations, while the conventional fixed-wing propulsion system handles high-speed horizontal flight. This segmentation allows the aircraft to achieve vertical takeoff capability without compromising its ability to reach speeds below 400 miles per hour during conventional flight operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between different propulsion modes depending on operational requirements. During vertical takeoff and landing, the rotor system is activated. During high-speed horizontal flight, the fixed-wing propulsion system is engaged. This dynamic switching allows the aircraft to optimize performance for each phase of operation, achieving both vertical capability and high-speed flight.
4Adaptability or versatility
If fixed-wing aircraft perform conventional takeoff, then horizontal flight is achieved, but the aircraft cannot operate from unprepared ground
Solution Approach 1:
The VTOL assembly is designed to be universally applicable to various fixed-wing aircraft types and can be integrated into existing aircraft structures. The system provides multiple functions: vertical takeoff, vertical landing, and hovering capability, enabling the aircraft to operate from unprepared ground and avoids the need for extensive runway infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adds vertical movement capability to the conventional horizontal flight domain. By incorporating rotors that can generate lift in the vertical direction, the aircraft can transition from purely horizontal takeoff to vertical takeoff, enabling operation from unprepared ground and reducing dependence on runway infrastructure.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and assembly allowing vertical take off and landing (VTOL) operations for winged aircraft may include a housing and one or more rotors. The rotors may be positioned within slots on the housing, each slot having an upper and lower aperture to allow airflow. The rotors may be connected to a control system in the cockpit to allow for control over the angle and power of the rotors during flight. A protective cover may be placed over one or both of the apertures, the covers being either slidably or hingedly openable. A supporting member may provide space between the aircraft and the housing. The system may be retrofitted to existing aircraft, or included in their manufacture. The system is intended for use with personal small aircraft, military aircraft, and commercial airliners.