Anti-torque and propulsion system for rotorcraft
US11718394B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 16, 2019 |
| Grant date | Aug 8, 2023 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 31, 2042 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64C2027/8281
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Tail boom drive systems for helicopters are described which utilize a fan internal to the tail boom to provide yaw control, and an external propulsor to provide forward thrust. In one embodiment, the tail boom drive system includes a shaft, a fan, and a propulsor. The shaft is disposed lengthwise within an interior space of the tail boom, and the shaft has a first end and a second end. The fan is mechanically coupled coaxially to the shaft within the interior space between the first end and the second end, and the fan generates a variable airflow directed towards the second end that is ejected from the interior space substantially perpendicular to the tail boom. The propulsor is external to the tail boom and is mechanically coupled coaxially to the shaft at the second end, and the propulsor generates a variable thrust directed towards the first end.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.