US 12,662,236 B2 · Leading-edge ducted fan thrust reduction system

Abstract

The present invention is a powered electric lift augmentation systems (ELAS's) to add drag while minimally reducing or enhancing the lift augmentation of an airplane. At least one ELAS is attached to an airfoil, and each ELAS comprises: a nacelle; and electric duct fan (EDF) housed within the nacelle; an optional pylon perpendicularly connected beneath the nacelle; an optional slat; and one or more drag elements, pivotably connected through a range of angles to airflow. Each drag element comprises a hinged plate, or a pair of opposing plates, connected to a pilot's control element able to rotate the plates to create a range of drag levels or to stow away. The drag elements are connected to the airfoil leading edge, the nacelle, pylon, or slat; and may further comprises holes. As ELAS assembly may comprise one or more ELAS systems attached to an airfoil (aerodynamic lifting element—ALE).

Claims19

Dependent claims

A powered aerodynamic lift device, comprising:

a) one or more electric lift augmentation systems (ELAS) distributed along a span of an aerodynamic lifting element (ALE), each ELAS comprising:
ii) one or more nacelles positioned along the leading edge of an aerodynamic lifting element;
ii) an electric duct fan (EDF) housed within each of the one or more nacelles, each EDF comprising a fan and a power source to operate the fan, wherein each EDF forces accelerated air through the fan;
b) one or more drag elements pivotably connected to the nacelle, facing forward or backward, and comprising a rotatable/hinged/pivotable plate connected to a control element able to rotate the plate to create a range of drag;
and
c) wherein the one or more ELAS increase an airplane lift.

3 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Leading-edge ducted fan thrust reduction system

Life of this patent

Leading-edge ducted fan thrust reduction system

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims19