Wing-Integrated Electric Fans for Efficient VTOL and Forward Thrust
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aircraft designed for vertical takeoff and landing face inefficiencies due to propulsors being optimized for either vertical or forward thrust, leading to complications in propulsion systems.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a propulsion system with vertical thrust electric fans into the support structure of the wing, utilizing a grid of longitudinal and transverse support members to position multiple small electric fans efficiently, allowing for both vertical and forward thrust operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single large propulsor is used to generate both vertical and forward thrust, then the aircraft can perform vertical takeoff and landing, but the propulsor efficiency decreases due to being designed for only one operation mode
Solution Approach 1:
The single large propulsor is divided into multiple smaller electric fans (at least two, preferably three or more) that can be independently controlled. Each fan can be optimized for specific thrust requirements while collectively providing both vertical and forward thrust capabilities, resolving the efficiency loss associated with a single multi-mode propulsor
Solution Approach 2:
The propulsion system uses variable pitch propeller blades that can dynamically adjust their angle of attack based on flight requirements. The system can transition between vertical thrust mode (blades at high pitch) and forward thrust mode (blades at low pitch), allowing the same physical structure to efficiently perform both operations without energy loss
2Loss of energy
If multiple small electric fans are integrated into the wing support structure, then propulsion efficiency improves for both vertical and forward thrust, but the wing structural design becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The wing support structure is designed to serve dual purposes: it provides structural support for the wing and simultaneously houses the electric fans and propulsion components. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate structural elements, reducing overall complexity while enabling efficient multi-mode propulsion
Solution Approach 2:
The electric fans are nested within the existing wing support structure, utilizing the grid of longitudinal and transverse support members to position and secure the fans. This nesting approach integrates the propulsion system into the structural framework without requiring additional external components, maintaining structural integrity while enabling efficient propulsion
3Force
If the propulsor is optimized for vertical thrust operations, then vertical takeoff and landing performance improves, but forward flight thrust generation becomes less efficient
Solution Approach 1:
The propeller blades are designed with variable pitch capability, allowing them to be adjusted dynamically between high pitch angles for vertical thrust and low pitch angles for forward flight. This dynamic adjustment enables the propulsion system to optimize its performance for the current flight mode, eliminating the trade-off between vertical and forward flight efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The propulsion system divides the thrust generation function across multiple independently controllable electric fans, each capable of producing both vertical and forward thrust. This segmentation allows the system to optimize the contribution of each fan based on the current flight requirement, improving overall efficiency for both vertical and forward operations
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 configuration enables efficient vertical takeoff and landing while minimizing structural impact on the wing design and providing flexibility for forward flight operations, with reduced wind resistance during transitions.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of vertical thrust electric fans driven by the power source
Data Source
AI summary
An aircraft defining a vertical direction, a longitudinal direction, and a transverse direction is provided. The aircraft includes: a fuselage; a propulsion system comprising a power source and a plurality of vertical thrust electric fans driven by the power source; and a wing extending from the fuselage in the transverse direction. The wing includes a support structure that comprises a plurality of first support members and a plurality of second support members. The plurality of first support members extending at least partially between the plurality of second support members. The plurality of vertical thrust electric fans arranged between the plurality of first support members and the plurality of second support members.