Fuel cell powered electric aircraft
OwnerJames P. Dunninventor
Life of this patent
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Abstract
Electrically powered aircraft having fuel cells as at least a partial source of electrical energy. In many instances the electrical energy powers an electric motor used to propel the aircraft. In some instances, the electric output from the fuel cell would be augmented by power from special high power “surge” batteries for critical takeoff and climbing, where the maximum electric power is required. In preferred embodiments, such fuel cell powered aircraft will supply oxygen to the fuel cell either from a container of oxygen carried on board the aircraft, or from a ram scoop which directs air through which the aircraft is moving to the fuel cell.
Claims16
An aircraft comprising
- an electric motor adapted to propel the aircraft;
- a fuel cell adapted to provide electrical energy to the electric motor;
- an input ram air duct adapted to provide pressurized air containing oxygen to the fuel cell;
- and
- an electric fan and a fan power source wherein the fan is adapted to force air through a portion of the input ram air duct, the fan power source provides electrical power to the fan, and the fan power source is at least one of one of a fuel-cell, a battery, a capacitor, and an electric generator.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.