E-copter

Votes: 1
Views: 1836

Helicopters and planes perform significant roles in both armed forces and civilian life, with many duties being exclusive to one or the other. Helicopters are capable of vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) but are limited in forward velocity by the rotor tip speed, as well as being significantly louder than a similar sized light plane. Airplanes as well suffer drawbacks for particular uses, such as being unable to take off and land in small spaces, as well as needing fossil fuels to run, often required to be on board, or refueled only with aviation fuel. Recent advances in electric motors, as well as hybrid technology, largely in cars, present us with a unique opportunity to create a novel new method of aeronautical travel, with many possible use scenarios.

Electric motors coupled with a generator have been selected for the drive-train due to the possible function in reconnaissance. Being quiet and efficient, the proposed vehicle would be capable of VTOL, high speed in forward motion coupled with a longer flying time and distance, short distance take-off and landing (faster than VTOL), as well as being able to maneuvered slowly on the ground; all while being significantly quieter than any similar design, due to the drive-train and unique setup. The target weight for the vehicle is slated to be 250kg unloaded with fuel or the maximum 2 pilots/passenger. This should all add up to a vehicle that is both novel and cutting edge, as well as fast and easy to maneuver due to the multi-engine setup and lightweight.

In conclusion; this offers a road and air going vehicle capable of both VTOL and short distance take-off and landing coupled with high speed forward motion and hovering, powered by a hybrid system of electric motors and a generator, with a target unloaded weight of 250kg.

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  • ABOUT THE ENTRANT

  • Name:
    Raymond Bell
  • Type of entry:
    individual
  • Profession:
    Engineer/Designer
  • Raymond is inspired by:
    As an leading University we provide team of engineers in conducting research and development activities on next generation Australian designed products and processes using cutting edge technologies. We go with aspiration of "you define we design".
  • Software used for this entry:
    Solidworks and Ansys
  • Patent status:
    none