Rotorcraft anti-torque and directional control using a centrifugal blower

US10633086B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Bell Helicopter Textron Inc. · US

Inventors

• Matthew R. Carr · Hurst, US
• Matthew Edward Louis · Fort Worth, US
• Kirk Landon Groninga · Keller, US
• Daniel Bryan Robertson · Southlake, US
• Frank B. Stamps · Colleyville, US
• Albert G. Brand · Fort Worth, US
• Eric A. Sinusas · Euless, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Mar 23, 2017
• Grant date: Apr 28, 2020
• Expiry date: May 31, 2038

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B64C2027/8254
• WIPO field: Transport
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A rotorcraft comprises a fuselage, a tail boom, a rotor system, and a centrifugal blower system. The centrifugal blower system comprises a centrifugal blower configured to generate thrust using an airflow, wherein the centrifugal blower is located within the tail boom. The centrifugal blower system also comprises a plurality of ducts configured to control the thrust generated by the centrifugal blower, wherein the plurality of ducts is located on a portion of the tail boom surrounding the centrifugal blower, and wherein the plurality of ducts comprises one or more adjustable ducts configured to vary a size of an associated duct opening.