Multi-role aircraft with interchangeable mission modules

US8967526B2 · kind B2 · utility

Inventor

• Abe Karem · Tustin, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Aug 9, 2011
• Grant date: Mar 3, 2015
• Expiry date: Aug 9, 2031

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B64U2101/00
• WIPO field: Transport
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A flight-operable, truly modular aircraft has an aircraft core to which one or more of outer wings members, fuselage, cockpit, leading and trailing edge couplings, and empennage and tail sections can be removably coupled and/or replaced during the operating life span of the aircraft. In preferred embodiments the aircraft core houses the propulsive engines, avionics, at least 80% of the fuel, and all of the landing gear. The aircraft core is preferably constructed with curved forward and aft composite spars, that couple to outer wing sections and possibly other sections using hardpoints. The aircraft core preferably has a large central cavity dimensioned to interchangeably carry an ordnance launcher, a surveillance payload, electronic countermeasures, and other types of cargo. Contemplated aircraft can be quite large, for example having a wing span of at least 80 ft.