Change the world
Innovation Office
PROJECT SUMMARY
The VTOL aircraft is a means of providing the vertical take-off and landing capabilities of a helicopter with the long range and endurance of a conventional fixed-wing aircraft whilst maintaining the ability to lift heavy payloads. To achieve these requirements, hybrid power is incorporated using both electric and internal combustion motors to provide vertical lift during the hover phase with a transition to IC-only power during the cruise.
MARKET/NEED
The invention provides the market and research with the ability to autonomously transport cargo and test equipment over large distances from unprepared take-off and landing areas.
BENEFITS
The production costs and operating costs of a relatively small autonomous vehicle are substantially lower than the costs associated with operating a full-size helicopter and its supporting crew. The invention allows for access to airborne capabilities that would normally not be financially available to a small operation or research team.
TRL
7
PROTOTYPE
Yes
IP TYPE
Patent
INVENTOR
Prof Russel Phillips
OPPORTUNITY TYPE
Collaboration | Investment | Partners