USO10926868B1

( 12 ) United States Patent ( 10 ) Patent No.: US 10,926,868 B1

Ullman et al . (45 ) Date of Patent : Feb. 23 , 2021

( 54 ) DISTRIBUTED LEADING-EDGE LIFTING ( 2013.01 ) ; B64D 29/02 ( 2013.01 ) ; B64D

SURFACE SLAT AND ASSOCIATED 31/06 ( 2013.01 ) ; B64D 41/00 ( 2013.01 ) ; B64D
ELECTRIC DUCTED FANS FOR FIXED 2041/005 ( 2013.01 )
LIFTING SURFACE AIRCRAFT ( 58 ) Field of Classification Search
CPC B64C 13/50 ; B64C 13/26 ; B64C 9/24 ;
( 71 ) Applicant: CubCrafters Group LLC , Yakima, B64C 11/001 ; B64C 9/18 ; B64D 27/24 ;
WA (US) B64D 29/02 ; B64D 31/06 ; B64D 41/00 ;
B64D 2041/005
( 72 ) Inventors: David G. Ullman , Independence, OR See application file for complete search history.
(US ) ; Vincent H. Homer ,
Independence, OR (US ) ; Patrick J. (56) References Cited
Horgan , Naches , WA (US )
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS
( 73 ) Assignee : CubCrafters Group LLC , Yakima, 3,018,983 A * 1/1962 Davidson B64C 23/005
WA (US ) 244/15
10,099,793 B2 * 10/2018 Ullman B64D 29/02
(*) Notice: Subject to any disclaimer, the term of this (Continued )
patent is extended or adjusted under 35
U.S.C. 154 ( b ) by 0 days. Primary Examiner Valentina Xavier
( 21 ) Appl. No .: 17/079,911 (74 ) Attorney, Agent, or Firm — Carrie Stroup
( 57 ) ABSTRACT
(22) Filed : Oct. 26 , 2020 A powered aerodynamic lift device positioned on a leading
Related U.S. Application Data edge of an aerodynamic lifting element (ALE ) , e.g. an
airfoil, at least one slat /nacelle /EDF lift assembly compris
( 60 ) Provisional application No. 62 / 992,684 , filed on Mar. ing : a slat, a two or more nacelles positioned beneath the
20 , 2020 . slat , each nacelle housing an electric ducted fan (EDF ) . The
( 51 ) Int . Ci . nacelles are spaced apart to create gaps between the slat and
B64C 13/50 ( 2006.01 ) the airfoil for accelerated air to pass through . The lift
B64C 9/24 ( 2006.01 ) assembly is under the operational control of and / or further
B64D 29/02 ( 2006.01 ) comprises: a master control unit linked to a power source ,
B640 27/24 ( 2006.01 ) e.g. batteries to power the EDFs . The device provides the
ALE and aircraft with : increased lift and additional thrust
B640 41/00 ( 2006.01 )
B64D 31/06 ( 2006.01 ) during aircraft take offs, climbs, descents, and landings;
B64C 13/26 ( 2006.01 ) enhanced low - speed control and reduced loss -of - control
during an aircraft's takeoff and landing; improved aircraft
(Continued ) handling during gusts and crosswinds . The present invention
( 52 ) U.S. Cl . also comprises an ALE or aircraft with at least one lift
CPC B64C 13/50 ( 2013.01 ) ; B64C 9/18 assembly installed thereon .
(2013.01 ) ; B64C 9/24 ( 2013.01 ) ; B64C 11/001
(2013.01 ) ; B64C 13/26 (2013.01 ) ; B64D 27/24 19 Claims , 16 Drawing Sheets
100
106 104
103 101
102

105 107

110
 US 10,926,868 B1
Page 2

( 51 ) Int. Ci.
B64C 11/00 ( 2006.01 )
B64C 9/18 ( 2006.01 )
( 56 ) References Cited
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS
2016/0245227 A1 * 8/2016 Crawford FO2K 1/72
2017/0190436 A1 * 7/2017 Ullman B64C 3/32
* cited by examiner
U.S. Patent Feb. 23 , 2021 Sheet 1 of 16 US 10,926,868 B1

100
106 104
103 101
102

105 ? ?
107

110

FIG . 1
U.S. Patent Feb. 23 , 2021 Sheet 2 of 16 US 10,926,868 B1

101 107

202
201
103

|
203 ,
102
7
103

FIG . 2
U.S. Patent Feb. 23 , 2021 Sheet 3 of 16 US 10,926,868 B1

101

FIG . 3A

101

101

FIG . 3B

FIG . 30

101

E29203
FIG . 3D
U.S. Patent Feb. 23 , 2021 Sheet 4 of 16 US 10,926,868 B1

103 102
401
102
103

101

107

106
201

FIG . 4
U.S. Patent Feb. 23 , 2021 Sheet 5 of 16 US 10,926,868 B1

100

100
501

502

104
105 102
103 JROLION
102 103

FIG . 5
U.S. Patent Feb. 23 , 2021 Sheet 6 of 16 US 10,926,868 B1

602 603 604

605
606
401 202

bo
0000
101
201 104

107

FIG . 6A
U.S. Patent Feb. 23 , 2021 Sheet 7 of 16 US 10,926,868 B1

201

FIG . 6B

602

FIG . 6C

603

FIG . 6D

604

39 605
FIG . 6E
U.S. Patent Feb. 23 , 2021 Sheet 8 of 16 US 10,926,868 B1

100

702

101
701

703 104

FIG . 7
U.S. Patent Feb. 23 , 2021 Sheet 9 of 16 US 10,926,868 B1

202
101 801

102

104
803

FIG . 8A

101
202 805
804

102

104

FIG . 8B
U.S. Patent Feb. 23 , 2021 Sheet 10 of 16 US 10,926,868 B1

101 101

100

FIG . 9
U.S. Patent Feb. 23 , 2021 Sheet 11 of 16 US 10,926,868 B1

100

104

FIG . 10
U.S. Patent Feb. 23 , 2021 Sheet 12 of 16 US 10,926,868 B1

202

100
2

104
106

FIG . 11
U.S. Patent Feb. 23 , 2021 Sheet 13 of 16 US 10,926,868 B1

1204 Command
1203
ADAHRS
Autopilot 1211 Power Flow
1

1
Backup
U
1 ADAHRS Redundant
1202
1201

Pilot Master Controller

Backup Master 1210
Controller
1206 102 1205

ESC1 EDF 1 803

1208
1209
Actuator Flap 1 702
Actuator Slat Position 1 Power
1209 Source
Actuator Slat Angle 1
1209 602, Alternate
Actuator Flow Modifier 1 603 , Power
1209 604 , Source
703
605 ,
606

1212
1206 102 , 803

ESC1 EDF N
Actuator Flap N 702
1209 .
Actuator Slat Position N
1209
Actuator Slat Angle N 703
1209
Actuator Flow Modifier N 602 , 603 , 604 ,
1209 605 , 606
1205
FIG . 12
U.S. Patent Feb. 23 , 2021 Sheet 14 of 16 US 10,926,868 B1

1204

ADAHRS
1203 * *** **** ***** ***** **** **** ***** ******* **** ***** ***** ***** **** ****

Master Controller
Autopilot Desired State Module Aircraft State Module

Pilot
o Landing and Takeoff o Pitch , Roll , Yaw Angles
J

Desires o Speed , Heading

o Other state measures o Angle of Attack
1202 O Relative wind
O ETC.
1301 1302

1303
Command Logic Module Autonomous Logic Module
1206
ECSS O Engine out compensation
Amalgamator o Stall prevention
O Turbulence damping
Actuators 1305 o Crosswind compensation
O Shed vortex minimization
1209 1304
1201

FIG . 13
U.S. Patent Feb. 23 , 2021 Sheet 15 of 16 US 10,926,868 B1

Lift Curves
1405
3.5

3
1404
2.5

LiftC(CL)oefic ent 2
1402
1409
1.5
1403
1
1408
0.5
1407 1401
0
0 10 20
1400

FIG . 14
U.S. Patent Feb. 23 , 2021 Sheet 16 of 16 US 10,926,868 B1

1504

1503
1502
1501
Lift

1501
left right
Span

FIG . 15
 US 10,926,868 B1
1 2
DISTRIBUTED LEADING- EDGE LIFTING element increased lift and thrust, augmented airflow to
SURFACE SLAT AND ASSOCIATED enhance stall characteristics of the main lifting body,
ELECTRIC DUCTED FANS FOR FIXED enhanced low - speed control and reduced loss - of -control
LIFTING SURFACE AIRCRAFT during an aircraft's takeoff, climb out , descent and landing,
5 and improved aircraft handling during gusts and crosswinds .
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED An exemplary embodiment is a product comprising the lift
APPLICATIONS assembly that is used to supplement an already existing
aircraft wing e.g. at least one lift assembly per aircraft
This utility patent application claims the benefit of U.S. wing .
Provisional Patent Application No. 62/ 992,684 , filed on 10 In an additional embodiment, the powered aerodynamic
Mar. 20 , 2020 , which is hereby incorporated in by reference device comprises a new aircraft with at least one lift assem
in its entirety. bly pre - installed , comprising a ) at least one aerodynamic
lifting element (ALE ) on an aircraft, the ALE comprising a
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION span , a leading edge, trailing edge , and an upper aerody
15 namic surface; b ) one or more slat /nacelle /EDF assemblies
There is a strong need to develop aircraft that can take off distributed along the span of said upper aerodynamic surface
and land in short distances . Shortening these distances near the leading edge , each slat/nacelle /EDF assembly com
requires higher lift at low speeds and improved low speed prising: i ) a slat positioned above the leading edge of the
control capabilities. aerodynamic lifting element; ii ) two or more nacelles posi
The prior art discloses U.S. Pat. No. 10,099,793 B2 , by 20 tioned beneath and connected to the slat, wherein said
David G. Ullman and Vincent Homer, entitled “ DISTRIB- nacelles are spaced apart to create at least one gap between
UTED ELECTRIC DUCTED FAN LIFTING SURFACE ” , the slat and the leading edge of the aerodynamic lifting
which issued on Oct. 16 , 1018. This patent discloses the use element; ii ) an electric duct fan (EDF ) housed within each of
of a plurality of EDF's positioned on the aircraft wing the one or more nacelles, each EDF comprising a fan and a
leading edge . This system provides, for example, the ben- 25 power source to operate the fan , wherein each EDF forces
efits of: enhanced lift during all phases of flight, reductions accelerated air through the fan and the gaps; and c ) wherein
of stalls , and enhanced Short Take Offs and Landing the one or more slat / nacelle /EDF assemblies provide the
( STOL ). aerodynamic lifting element increased lift and thrust,
The present invention is a non - obvious improvement of enhanced low - speed control and reduced loss -of - control
this prior art, and comprises a slat/ nacelle /EDF assembly on 30 during an aircraft's takeoff and landing , and improved
the airfoil leading edge that significantly increases the aircraft handling during gusts and crosswinds .
airfoil's lift and thrust to improve the aircraft's take off, In all embodiments of the present invention , each slat is
climb, descent, and landing capabilities. The slat/nacelle / supported by at least two na spaced apart to create air
EDF assembly is uniquely comprised of a leading edge slat gaps, each nacelle housing one electric ducted fan ( EDF ) .
supported by two or more EDFs housed in nacelles that 35 This lift assembly described here is not intended to be the
additionally support the slat and guide the airflow . Where the primary propulsion system of an aircraft but to enhance
prior art addressed the airflow directly accelerated by the aircraft performance during the terminal phases of flight. As
EDFs during all phases of flight, this improvement also such it is optional to flight and in some embodiments can be
accelerates and entrains the air between nacelles at high made removable or retractable .
angles of attack , during takeoff, climb out , descent and 40 In an embodiment the lift assembly described here can
landing , to enhance the benefits of the prior art. Where the provide sufficient propulsion to fully power the aircraft in all
prior art was intended as the prime propulsion system for the phases of flight.
aircraft during all phases of flight, this slat / nacelle / EDF In an embodiment, the slat has a length that is substan
assembly embodiment is specifically designed to supple- tially equal to the span of the aerodynamic lifting element.
ment the prime propulsion during the terminal phases of 45 In another embodiment, the slat has a length that is less
aircraft missions with high lift and improved controllability. than the span of the aerodynamic lifting element.
Further, in some embodiments the assembly can be installed In another embodiment there are multiple discontinuous
and removed as a single unit rendering it an add - on to an slat /nacelle /EDF assemblies on each span of the aerody
existing aircraft . In other embodiments it can be retracted namic lifting element.
when not in use during cruise portions of the flight. 50 In another embodiment, the slat of the slat/nacelle / EDF
assembly comprises a variable cross section , relative posi
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION tion to the aerodynamic lifting element, cross section , or a
twist.
The present invention comprises a powered aerodynamic In another embodiment, the one or more nacelles and /or
lift assembly, comprising: one or more lift (i.e. slat /nacelle / 55 the slat/nacelle/ EDF assembly are retractable into the aero
EDF ) assemblies distributed along a span of an upper dynamic lifting element.
aerodynamic surface near the leading edge. Each lift assem- In another embodiment, the slat /nacelle / EDF assembly is
bly comprises: i ) a slat positioned near the leading edge of detachable and securely attachable from the aerodynamic
the aerodynamic lifting element; ii ) two or more nacelles lifting element.
positioned beneath and connected to a slat , wherein said 60 In another embodiment, the present invention comprises
nacelles are spaced apart to create at least one gap between cascaded slat/ nacelle /EDF assemblies.
the slat and the leading edge of the aerodynamic lifting In another embodiment, the aerodynamic lift device fur
element; and ii ) an electric duct fan (EDF ) housed within ther comprises a trailing edge flap .
each of the one or more nacelles , each EDF comprising a fan In another embodiment, the present invention further
and a power source to operate the fan , wherein each EDF 65 comprises : one or more lift modifiers positioned aftward of
forces accelerated air through the fan and the gaps. The one the slat/nacelle /EDF assembly, or on the slat , or on one or
or more lift assemblies provide the aerodynamic lifting more nacelles .
 US 10,926,868 B1
3 4
In another embodiment, the present invention further FIG . 3D is an illustration of a slat positioned on the
comprises : an electrical circuit control system comprising a leading edge of an airfoil ( i.e. an aerodynamic lifting ele
master control unit able to control the operation of one or ment ), and the slat varies in distance or angle relative to the
more slat /nacelle / EDF assemblies, the master control unit leading edge .
comprising : 1 ) a plurality of electronic speed controllers 5 FIG . 4 is an illustration of the slat /nacelle / EDF assembly
( ESCs ) able to control the speed of the EDFs , and 2 ) a with part of the slat removed over one of the nacelles to
plurality of actuators . demonstrate the accelerated airflow path emanating from the
In another embodiment, the present invention further EDFs and the gap between the slat and the airfoil's lifting
comprises : the master control unit further controls the modu- 10 surface as influenced by the EDFs within the nacelles .
lation of energy supplied by the power source to the EDFs , aligned FIG . 5 is an illustration of an airfoil comprising two
wherein the power source comprises one or more of: bat slats on the leading edge , one slat supported by two
teries , a fuel cell , an engine/ generator or other electrical nacelles
wherein
, and another slat supported by four nacelles ,
each nacelle houses one EDF .
energy source. FIG . 6A is an illustration of an airfoil with one slat /
In another embodiment, the present invention further
comprises : the EDF power source controlled by the pilot , 15 nacelle /EDF assembly comprising a variety of types of flow
modifiers that distribute the accelerated airflow emanating
automatically or some combination thereof. from the EDFs and the gap between the slat and the airfoil's
In another embodiment, the control of the EDF power lifting surface.
source is an analog or digital, open or closed loop circuit , FIG . 6B is an illustration of a vortex generator.
comprising sensors able to detect: an angle -of -attack, an 20 FIG . 6C is an illustration of a chordwise fence .
airspeed , and a local airflow pressures and velocities . FIG . 6D is an illustration of a vane .
In another embodiment, the actuators are coupled to at FIG . 6E is an illustration of a slat - like foil.
least one flow modifier the aerodynamic lifting element FIG . 7 is an illustration of the slat changing position
(ALE ) . and / or angle relative to the lifting surface in an electrically
In another embodiment, the master controller further 25 powered or aerodynamic powered manner.
controls the geometric position or angle of the one or more FIG . 8A is a longitudinal cross - sectional view of an airfoil
slats such that the lift and thrust profiles along the span of the comprising a slat/nacelle / EDF assembly on the leading
ALE are altered . edge, and a flap attached to the trailing edge where the
In another embodiment, the master controller further airflow moves over the flap.
comprises ADAHRS that measure the state of the EDF 30
FIG . 8B is another longitudinal cross - sectional view of an
comprising one or more of: rotational speed , power utilized airfoil comprising a slat /nacelle /EDF assembly on the lead
or air flow rate, and sends the information back to master ing edge , and a flap positioned above the trailing edge where
controller unit. the airflow moves both underneath and over the flap.
In another embodiment, the present invention further FIG . 9. illustrates a cascade of two vertically stacked
comprises : a bottom surface of the slat formed , or an upper 35 ofslatan/nacelle /EDF assemblies positioned on the leading edge
airfoil .
surface of the ALE formed , to guide an EDF exhaust over FIG . 10 illustrates a detachable, and securely attachable
the ALE to create a nozzle of enhanced accelerated airflow . slat / nacelle / EDF assembly, allowing storage of the slat /
The present innovation provides improved, enhanced nacelle/EDF assembly when not in use .
low - speed lift on takeoff, climb out , descent and landing, 40 FIG . 11. illustrates a retractable slat /nacelle /EDF assem
reducing loss -of - control (LoC ) during these critical periods bly that is stored within the airfoil interior, such as during
and provides improved control and improved handling cruise flight legs.
qualities during gusts and crosswinds. FIG . 12 is an exemplary block diagram of an embodiment
In an embodiment, the present invention further com- of the operational control system linked to the aircraft and
prises a master controller unit linked with the distributed 45 the slat/nacelle / EDF assemblies.
EDFs that allows for the novel and improved aerodynamics, FIG . 13. is an exemplary block diagram of an embodi
reaction to pilot or autonomous commands, virtual elimina- ment of the master control unit linked to the aircraft, the
tion of stalls and reduction of the effect of turbulence . The slat /nacelle / EDF assemblies.
instant innovation enhances short take -off and landing FIG . 14 is a plot of the lift coefficient ( y -axis ) versus the
( STOL ) performance. 50 angle of attack in degrees ( x -axis) for the airplane with and
without the slat / nacelle /EDF assemblies installed on the
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS airfoils, to demonstrate that the slat / nacelle / EDF assemblies
provide increased Clo value , lift curve slope , and maximum
FIG . 1 illustrates an airplane comprising an aerodynamic lift .
lift device (wing) with one slat/nacelle / EDF assembly of the 55 FIG . 15 is a plot of the lift (y - axis ) versus the entire
present invention positioned on the leading edge . airplane wingspan ( x - axis ) to demonstrate the ability of the
FIG . 2 is a longitudinal cross - sectional view of a typical present invention to significantly increase the airplane lift as
installation of the slat /nacelle /EDF assembly on the leading compared to a fixed slat and a plain wing .
edge of an airfoil ( i.e. of an aerodynamic lift device ) .
FIGS . 3A - 3D are illustrations of exemplary slats for use 60 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY
in the present invention. EMBODIMENTS
FIG . 3A is a top perspective view of a slat used in the
slat/nacelle / EDF assembly. Glossary of Terms
FIG . 3B is a top perspective view of a slat with a twisted
geometry. 65 Described herein is an aircraft system comprising one or
FIG . 3C is a top perspective view of a slat comprising a more leading edge airfoil slats distributed over the leading
varying chord and cross - sectional area . edge of an aerodynamic lifting element (ALE ) ( e.g. wing )
 US 10,926,868 B1
5 6
combined with EDFs mounted in nacelles so as to affect the be referred to as the “ slat/nacelle /EDF assembly ” in the
flow of air in the gaps between the slat and the lifting remainder of this description .
surface. The slat/nacelle /EDF assembly directs air over the The slat and nacelle provide a nozzle of accelerated
top surface of the lifting surface to increase lift and delay airflow ( e.g. FIG . 2 , 201 ) for each EDF, regulating air flow
separation and stall . Slat geometry and position relative to 5 through the gap and over the upper surface of the lifting
the lifting surface may be variable along the span of the body. This flow may be further shaped by vortex generators,
lifting surface and may be changed in flight. Multiple vanes , fences, spades , flaps, surface textures or other flow
slat /nacelle /EDF assemblies may be distributed along the modifiers mounted on the lifting surface, slat , or nacelle . The
leading edge of the lifting surface. These may be individu 10 dance withofthe
geometry these flow modifiers may be adjusted in accor
attack angle of the lifting surface or other
ally or collectively controlled to provide a lift profile over aircraft flight parameter to provide optimal airflow from
portions of the lifting surface that is manually or automati each EDF . The flow modifiers may be fixed or alternatively
cally tailored to enhance lift during all flight conditions.
As used herein , the term “ powered aerodynamic lift 100 of the present invention .comprises
actively controlled or retracted In an embodiment, system
device ” refers to an aircraft aerodynamic element (ALE ) 15 element (e.g. airfoil 104 ) with : 1 ) one or:more an aerodynamic
( e.g. an airfoil or wing , FIG . 1 , 104 ) having at least one EDF assemblies positioned on the leading edge slat 107
/nacelle !
; and 2 )
slat/nacelle/ EDF assembly 100 positioned on a leading edge one or more flow modifiers positioned aftward of the slat/
of the airfoil, and powered by a unit onboard the aircraft in nacelle/EDF assemblies ( see FIG . 6 ) .
a manner disclosed herein . Aircraft comprising the combination of slats, distributed
As used herein, the term “ slat/nacelle /EDF assembly ” and 20 EDFs , nacelles and optional flow modifiers may demon
“ lift assembly " are used interchangeably (FIG . 1 , 100 ) , and strate very short takeoff, increased rate of climb, steeper
comprise : a slat ; two or more nacelles supporting the slat ; an decent, and reduced landing distance without excessive
electric ducted fan (EDF ) housed within each nacelle ; and angle of attack and with an improved margin of safety to
gaps formed between the slat and the leading edge ( around stall . The system of the present invention is a non - obvious
the nacelles ) . The EDF's force accelerated air through the 25 improvement of over the system disclosed in U.S. Pat . No.
fans and the gaps to increase the aircraft's lift and thrust, 10,099,793 B2 , David G. Ullman and Vincent Homer,
amongst other enhanced performance capabilities. A slat/ entitled “ DISTRIBUTED ELECTRIC DUCTED FAN
nacelle/EDF assembly may extend the entire span of the LIFTING SURFACE ” , which issued on Oct. 16 , 1018 ,
lifting surface, or a part thereof, and more than one slat/ which only discloses the use of a plurality of EDF's posi
nacelle /EDF assembly may be positioned on each lifting 30 tioned on the wing leading edge .
surface . Distributed slat/nacelle / EDF modifier combinations may
As used herein , the term “ slat ” refers to a leading edge slat provide greater control of pitch , bank and yaw without
(moveable or fixed ) with a gap between it and the aerody- reliance on control surfaces. In addition , the effects of
namic lifting element ( e.g. a wing ). A fixed slat is often turbulence may be mitigated , due to correction of sudden
referred to as a slot . The slat is an airfoil positioned near the 35 accelerations due to turbulent air. Shed vortices may be
leading edge of a lifting surface to alter the flow during high reduced as well . System failures may also be mitigated, such
angle of attack light phases ; takeoff, climb out , descent and as elimination stalling , as well as compensation for wind
landing . Traditionally, slats cover the full span or partial gusts or cross winds during takeoff and landing.
span affecting only a portion of the lifting surface . Slats Slat /nacelle / EDF assemblies may be permanently affixed
accelerate the air in the gap between them and the lifting 40 to the lifting or may be removable as a whole or in sections
surface to delay separation and stall of the lifting surface from the lifting surface for optional stowage in the fuselage
especially critical during takeoff, climb out, descent and of the aircraft or external to the aircraft. Further the slats may
landing phases of an aircraft's mission . According to an be adjustable in position or geometry to redirect the EDF
embodiment of the present invention , there may be a plu- exhaust and the flow through the gap . The nacelle with
rality of slats on a lifting surface (e.g. FIG . 5 ) each not 45 attached EDF and slat may also be retractable into the lifting
connected directly to the others. Further, each slat may vary surface when not in use .
in chord, twist, section and spacing from the lifting surface . In FIG . 1 , aircraft 110 illustrates a representative embodi
Each slat may change its position relative to the lifting ment of the present invention , and comprises : a high wing
surface due to aerodynamic forces or controlled to modify lifting element (e.g. wing) 104 and has a slat 101 positioned
the flow over the lifting surface. 50 near the leading edge 106 of the lifting surface to improve
An Electric Ducted Fan ( EDF ) is an aircraft power plant lift during takeoff and landing. The lifting surface may be a
comprising an electrically -driven propeller (e.g. , a fan ) wing 104 as in this embodiment or other horizontal surface,
mounted within a nacelle . According to embodiments, a and may be mounted high , shoulder or low vertical positions
plurality of EDFs are mounted to provide distributed accel- with respect to the fuselage. In the gap 107 between the slat
erated flow in the gap between the lifting surface and the 55 101 and the lifting surface 202 , there are mounted a plurality
slat . Individual ones of the plurality of EDFs and the slat's of electric ducted fans (EDFs ) 102 , one EDF each mounted
position may be separately controlled to distribute the air- in a nacelle 103. Nacelle 103 not only houses the EDF, but
flow as a position and time variable stream of high velocity it also attaches and relatively positions the slat 101 to the
air along the span of the lifting surface's upper surface. The lifting surface 104 .
high velocity flow over selected portions of the lifting 60 Also shown in FIG . 1 is the aircraft's primary propulsion
surface may dramatically increase the overall lift of the system 105. This can be an internal combustion, electric or
airfoil, allowing the airplane to fly slower. other aircraft engine. While this engine provides the prime
Each EDF is mounted in a nacelle that houses the EDF, thrust, the instant innovation primarily provides lift and
supports the slat relative to the lifting surface and guides the controllability with some additional or secondary propul
air through and around the EDF . Each slat is supported by at 65 sion . The distributed slat , EDF and nacelle system could also
least two or more nacelles . This combination of multiple serve as a supplement to the primary aircraft propulsion
EDFs and nacelles supporting a slat and forming a gap will system or a redundant propulsion system with limited thrust
 US 10,926,868 B1
7 8
in case of primary propulsion system loss . In some examples ported by four EDF's 102 carrying nacelles 103. All embodi
the slat / nacelle / EDF assembly 100 may be the prime mover ments covered in the present disclosure have two or more
negating the need for 105 . nacelles supporting the slat . Standalone EDF embodiments
FIG . 2 is an illustration of a longitudinal cross -sectional are covered in U.S. Pat. No. 10,099,793 B2 without nacelles
or side view of a representative embodiment of an installa- 5 and slats as disclosed infra.
tion . In all embodiments , each installation of an Electric Referring to FIG . 6A : another embodiment the present
Ducted Fan (EDF ) 102 is housed in a nacelle 103 positioned invention comprises: an aerodynamic element (e.g. ALE
to support slat 101 so that the assembly directs the air blown 104 ) with : 1 ) one or more slat / nacelle /EDF assemblies
by the EDF aftward 201 over upper aerodynamic surface positioned on the leading edge ; 2 ) one or more flow modi
202 of airfoil section 203 of an aerodynamic lifting element 10 fiers positioned aftward of the slat /nacelle / EDF assemblies
104 (e.g. the entire wing of FIG . 1 ) ) . Each ducted fan ( see FIGS . 6 , 602-606 ) , and 3 ) flow emanating from the gap
installation EDF 102 accelerates the air directly aft of it 201 107 between the slat 101 and the lifting surface 401 and flow
and the combination of the EDF 102 and the slat 101 directly accelerated by the EDFs 201. In some embodiments
accelerate the air in the gap 107 on either side of the nacelle these flows can be directed to give a more desirable velocity
103. Gap 107 geometry can optionally be controlled, pow- 15 stream over the upper lifting surface 202 , thus increasing the
ered by the aerodynamic force or motorized with active lift, using flow modifiers, such as : vortex generators FIG .
controls . It will be understood that slat 101 and the associ- 6B , 602 ; chordwise fences FIG . 6C , 603 ; vanes oriented
ated EDFs 102 and nacelles 103 are one of a plurality of angled to the flow FIG . 6D , 604 ; and other slat - like foils
leading -edge lifting surface slat /nacelle / EDF lift assemblies mounted spanwise FIG . 6E , 605 on the lifting surface as
100 deployed along the lifting edge or surface span ( FIG . 1 , 20 shown, or alternatively on the slat or nacelle . In some
106 ) . Airfoil section 203 may be a fixed lifting surface or embodiments the surface 202 can be textured or dimpled
other aircraft lifting structure. While in the illustrated 606 to redistribute the flow . These airflow modification
embodiment leading - edge lifting surface slat 101 has an devices may be fixed or deployable and are well known to
airfoil cross section 203 , other suitable shapes are also one of skill in the art.
possible . In other embodiments, leading -edge lifting surface 25 Referring to FIG . 7 : in some embodiments, the slat 101
slat 101 may pivot , rotate, or be extendable by aerodynamic can be designed to change its position 702 and angle 703
forces or a motorized mechanism any suitable distance from relative to the lifting surface 202 ofALE 104. These changes
lifting surface 202 . can be powered as will be described in the discussion for
In some embodiments, leading -edge lifting surface slat FIG . 12 or driven by aerodynamic forces as in this embodi
101 has a progressively varying cross section . The progres- 30 ment with a spade 701 in the free flow or EDF exhaust.
sively varying cross section may minimize stall tendencies Referring to FIG . 8A : the flow over the rear portion 801
of the immediately adjacent section of airfoil section 203 of the lifting surface 202 can be deflected by a trailing edge
( e.g. , an aircraft's upper lifting surface 202 ) . Four represen- flap 803 to increase the lift or the drag on the surface in some
tative samples of slat 101 geometry are shown in FIGS . embodiments. In FIG . 8A , flap 803 is attached to the airfoil
3A-3D used in this invention can be prismatic (FIG . 3A) , be 35 or ALE 104 and the airflow 801 passes over the flap. In some
twisted ( FIG . 3B ) , have varying chord and cross section embodiments as shown in FIG . 8B , the flap 804 leading edge
( FIG . 3C ) , varying distance or angle relationship with the is positioned above the airfoil or ALE 104 at the trailing
lifting surface (FIG . 3D ) , or any combination of the four. edge, and the airflow 805 passes between the airfoil 104 and
Further, the undersurface of the slat may be sculpted to the bottom side of the flap 804 and over the top surface of
interface with nacelles 103 or to sculpt the air flow from the 40 the flap to accomplish the additional lift and drag.
EDFs 201 or in the gaps 107. In some embodiments, In some embodiments there can be more than one cas
leading -edge lifting surface slat 101 comprises a suitable caded slat /nacelle / EDF assemblies 100 in series ( e.g. verti
composite material, such as , but not limited to , fiberglass, cally ) . The exemplary embodiment in FIG . 9 shows two
carbon fiber or Kevlar. such cascading slat/ nacelle / EDF assemblies 100 .
As shown in FIG . 4 , the air flowing in the gap 107 45 In some embodiments the entire slat/nacelle / EDF assem
between the leading edge 106 and the slat 101 is either freely bly 100 can be removed from and reattached to the ALE 104
flowing air 401 or is accelerated air 201 by the EDFs 102 . as shown in FIG . 10. In this embodiment, assembly 100
The design of the nacelles 103 combined with the geometric and / or ALE lifting surface 104 comprise mechanisms well
shape of the gap 107 and the nacelles 103 determines the known to one of skill in the art to securely fix the assembly
shape of the flow 201 from the EDFs 102 and how it entrains 50 100 for flight, and release it for storage . The removed
the flow through the other, freely flowing sections of the gap elements can be stowed in the fuselage of the aircraft or
401. The nacelles 103 that house the EDFs 102 are shaped : other location . In some embodiments the removal or instal
to minimally impede the free flow of air 401 when the EDFs lation can be made without tools , in - the - field . In some
are unpowered ; direct the EDF exhaust 201 , and entrain the embodiments, leading -edge lifting surface assembly 100
free flow of air 401 when they are on ; and physically support 55 may be segmented and nested together to minimize space
the slat 101 relative to the lifting edge surface 106 . needed for storage.
Referring to FIG . 5 : in some embodiments , leading edge In some embodiments the slat /nacelle / EDF assembly 100
lifting surface slat / nacelle / EDF assembly 100 extends later- can be retracted as shown in FIG . 11 into the ALE lifting
ally over a section of leading edge 106 of wing section 104 surface 104 for some flight conditions and then extended for
at a length that is less than the total span of the lifting surface 60 others. In the illustrated embodiment, the slat/nacelle / EDF
104. As an example, a suitable section length of slat /nacelle / assembly 100 is retracted toward leading edge 106 of airfoil
EDF assembly 100 may be less than 1/3 of the total span of or ALE 104 ( indicated by the arrows ). The slat/nacelle /EDF
airfoil 104. A plurality of leading - edge lifting surface slat/ assembly 100 may be fully retracted , as shown, covering
nacelle/EDF assemblies 100 may fully or partially cover the native leading edge 106 of airfoil or ALE 104. In some
leading edge of airfoil 104. The embodiment in FIG . 5. 65 embodiments, it is partially retracted to a suitable distance
shows a short assembly 501 supported by two EDF's 102 from native leading edge 106 of airfoil 104. The slat /nacelle /
carrying nacelles 103 and a longer assembly 502 is sup- EDF assembly 100 may be retracted to reduce its aerody
 US 10,926,868 B1
9 10
namic effect. As an example, the slat/nacelle /EDF assembly comprises one or more outputs that communicate with one
100 may be retracted to reduce drag during cruise conditions or more slat /nacelle / EDF installation interfaces 1205. Each
when the slat/ nacelle /EDF assembly function is not war- slat/ nacelle / EDF interface 1201 comprises an electronic
ranted . The top surface 202 of the slat/nacelle / EDF assembly speed controller ( ESC ) 1206 and a plurality of actuators
100 may have a curvature that is substantially different from 5 1209. Firstly, master controller unit 1201 commands at least
native leading edge 106 of airfoil 104 and may provide one electronic speed controller (ESC ) 1206 , controlling the
alternate aerodynamic characteristics to airfoil 104 when
fully or partially retracted . Power for the retraction or speed of each EDF fan 102. In some embodiments , ESC
1206 modulates energy supplied by power source 1208 as
extension can come from an external source, aerodynamic commanded by master controller 1201. Power source 1208
forces or a combination of the two . 10
In FIG . 12 , an embodiment of an electrical circuit that is may
other
comprise batteries, a fuel cell , an engine /generator or
electrical energy source . Further, power source 1208
the operational control system represented as a block dia may have
gram . Control is managed by master control unit 1201. In dashed boxoneinorthe more backups 1212 as shown indicated by
block diagram of FIG . 12. In some
one embodiment, the control system comprises a single
master control unit 1201 as shown in FIG . 12. In other 15 embodiments, each backup 1212 may simply be a recon
embodiments, the control system comprises two or more figuration of the power sources in 1208 to supply the
redundant backup master controller units 1210 , each backup required power to the EDFs .
master controller unit 1210 comprising a duplicate master In some embodiments, each ESC 1206 comprises sensors
controller unit, as indicated by the dashed box 1210 in FIG . that measure the state of the EDF 102 under its control, such
12 . 20 as its rotational speed (e.g. , rpm ), power utilized or air flow
Referring again to FIG . 12 , master control unit 1201 rate, and sends the information back to master controller unit
comprises one or more inputs and one or more outputs. In 1201. In this way , master controller unit 1201 also receives
some embodiments, one or more inputs to master controller information on the state of each EDF 102 from each ESC
unit 1201 communicate with human -machine interface 1206. The sensor information is combined with that from
1202 , which , by way of example, may be a control panel 25 ADAHRs 1204 to respond to commands from human pilot
manually operated by a human pilot of the aircraft . A 1202 or autopilot 1203 .
number of digital and analog signals may be generated by In some embodiments, master controller unit 1201 may
the human -machine interface. In some embodiments, one or also command one or more actuators controllers 1209 that
more inputs to master controller unit 1201 communicate communicate with actuators that control the geometry of
with autopilot system 1203. In some embodiments , autopilot 30 each EDF nacelle 103 , slat position 702 or angle 703 , flow
system 1203 may comprise a conventional autopilot found modifiers 602 , 603 , 604 , 605 , or 606 , or trailing edge surface
onboard many aircraft and known to persons skilled in the 803 to modify the airflow from the EDF over the upper
art. Conventional autopilot systems comprise functions that aerodynamic surface . The combination of the slat /nacelle /
command the aircraft to hold the altitude and heading, or EDF, flow modifiers, and trailing edge surfaces allow the lift
similar flight desires. In other embodiments, autopilot sys- 35 and thrust distribution on the lifting surface to be tailored to
tem 1203 comprises more functions than found in a con- suit the flight requirements.
ventional autopilot system . These extra functions provide In some embodiments the system is able to sense and
enhanced capabilities over and above conventional autopi- reactively control the EDFs , TE surfaces, slat position and
lots for controlling flight parameters that affect aerodynamic angle, or flow modifiers to affect one area of the lifting
characteristics, ride quality, vortex dissipation and other 40 surface , for example that affecting a flap, or one wing , with
features described below . In some embodiments the system linear or non - linear manual, open loop or closed loop
will enhance the lift and drag characteristics during takeoff, control.
climb out , descent and landing. Additionally, the EDFs 102 are powered by batteries or
In some embodiments, one or more inputs to master other electricity storage methods contained on the airplane.
controller 1201 communicate with at least one Air Data/ 45 This EDF power system may be stand alone or be integral
Attitude/Heading Reference System ( ADAHRS ) unit 1204 . with the aircraft's electrical system . EDFs may also be
As known in the art, an ADAHRS unit , such as that indicated powered by a generator/ alternator driven by the aircraft
by 1204 , comprises a plurality of micromachined electro- main propulsion engine or by a stand - alone engine. Power
mechanical systems (MEMS ) sensors , including accelerom- generated may directly power the EDFs or may charge
eters , gyroscopes and magnetometers on all three axes that 50 batteries which then power the EDFs . On board power
measure aircraft and system data such as yaw , pitch and roll, generation systems may be single entities or duplicate for
as well as speed, attitude, and acceleration rates . ADAHRS redundancy.
unit 1204 may comprise a microprocessor that communi- The power to the EDFs is controlled either communally,
cates with the plurality of MEMS sensors , collects and individually or in some combination of the two . The amount
processes signals from the individual sensors , may store the 55 of power is controlled by the pilot, automatically or some
digitized data , then send the data to master controller unit combination as is described, for example , in U.S. Pat . No.
1201. In some embodiments the ADAHRS system will also 10,099,793 B2 .
sense and communicate the altitude and distance from a Control of EDF power output may be analog or digital ,
preferred landing or take off spot . FIG . 12 shows one open or closed loop , and may include sensors for detecting
embodiment having a single ADAHRS unit 1204. Other 60 angle -of -attack, airspeed, and local airflow pressures and
embodiments may comprise redundant backup ADAHRS velocities .
units 1211 , each redundant backup unit 1211 comprising a In some embodiments the system can be minimalized
single ADAHRS unit. This is indicated in FIG . 12 by the with only the pilot 1202 providing simple off /on input to the
dashed box . master controller 1201 which simple controls the ESCs 1206
In typical embodiments, master controller unit 1201 man- 65 to provide the same power to all EDFs 102. With this system
ages a plurality of slat/nacelle /EDF installations 1205 . the pilot either wants all the EDFs off or on . The other items
Referring again to FIG . 12 , master controller unit 1201 in FIG . 12 are not included in this minimal system .
 US 10,926,868 B1
11 12
Referring to FIG . 13 , the master control unit 1201 is In FIG . 15 , the spanwise distribution of lift as character
detailed . In some embodiments, master control unit 1201 has ized by lift curve 1501 for each spanwise section greatly
five major subsystems . Inputs from the pilot 1202 and affects the performance and control of an aircraft. Generally,
autopilot 1203 are combined in the Desired State Module this lift characteristic is formed by the shape of the lifting
1301 to define the preferred aircraft situation in terms of 5 surface and modifications to it with leading edge and trailing
landing and take -off desires and other desired state mea edge surfaces. This spanwise lift distribution for a plain
sures. In some cases , this desired state is input solely from
the pilot (e.g. , manually ) and the autopilot is turned off . In wing 1501 at a given angle of attack is shown in FIG . 15 as
other cases , the pilot is inactive and is relying solely on the This curvelineis. The
a dashed dip in the middle is due to the fuselage.
modified 1502 for a lifting surface in this
autopilot
input. At for
timescontrol of the
both the pilotaircraft and is not
and autopilot are providing
providing 10 For
instance with a fixed slat on the inner half of the left wing.
input and the logic in the Desired State Module 1301 slat/nacelle this innovation , the lift is further increased 1503 by
combines them to develop a single desired state . /EDF assembly installation , which in this
The Aircraft State Module 1302 accepts input from the Further instance is installed on the entire span of the right wing .
ADAHRS 1204 , and based on this input, computes infor- 15 the slat/ nacelle / EDF installation in combination
with the
mation for comparison to the desired state developed in the instance, affect flow modifiers (FIG . 6 , 602-606 ) can , in this
Desired State Module 1301 where this comparison occurs in the local lift 1504. This modification can be
the Command Logic Module 1303. It may also compute controlled as previously described to optimize for different
from the ADAHRS 1204 input information needed by the flight conditions . This reshaping can be in real time response
Autonomous Logic Module 1304 . 20 to pilot or autopilot controls , gusts sensed or the need to
The Command Logic Module 1303 compares the desired manage the shed vortex . For example, if a downdraft is
state from the Desired State Module 1301 with the actual sensed , the lift distribution can be locally increased , as
state form the aircraft state module 1302 to determine the demonstrated by lift ve 1504 , to compensate for the effect
needed change in the aircraft control to have the two states of the downdraft on the airfoil, resulting in a smoother ride
match . The aircraft control is provided by changes to the 25 for passengers. This may be accomplished by master con
power to the ESC 1206 and actuators ' 1209 settings. troller 1201 altering the power to EDFs 102 , or by the
The actual state of the aircraft is also provided by the configuration of the slat 702 , 703 , nacelle , flow modifiers
Aircraft State Module 1302 to the Autonomous Logic Mod 602 , 603 , 604 , 605 , 606 , or trailing edge surfaces 803 or 804
ule 1304. The information provided is used to determine through commands to actuators 1209 .
ESC 1206 and actuator 1209 changes needed to maintain 30 Method of Use
desired autonomous states . In this embodiment five autono The synergistic integration of multiple distributed electric
mous functions are itemized : engine out compensation, stallducted fans ( EDFs ) accelerating the air in the gap formed by
prevention, turbulence damping, cross -wind compensation a slat mounted on a lifting surface to supply upper surface
and shed vortex minimization . Other autonomous functions
may be integrated into the Autonomous Logic Module 1304. 35 blowing over a portion of the lifting surface in the manner
suggested in the drawing FIG . 4 , and optionally combined
The Command Logic Module 1303 and the Autonomous with a control system to manage the individual EDFs in
Logic Module 1304 both supply their control desires to the
Amalgamator 1305 that uses its internal logic to control the FIGS . 12 and 13 , the slat/nacelle / EDF system and associated
ECSs 1206 and actuators 1209 to best achieve the desired flow modifiers, has many advantages for aircraft especially
state and the autonomous functions. 40 during the takeoff, climb out , descent and landing phases of
In a minimal system the master controller is a simple pass flight.
through system where the pilot input 1202 is passed directly This concept can be added to existing aircraft providing a
to the ESCs 1206 without reference to any of the other JATO - like ( Jet Assisted Take Off) boost on takeoff, built into
elements of FIG . 13 . the wings , or even retractable when not in use , as shown in
FIG . 14. shows lift curves for a section of a lifting 45 FIG . 11. Rather than the electric propulsion being used to
surfacethe lift coefficient (C ) on the y - axis versus the add thrust solely, this present innovation also provides a
angle of attack in degrees on the x - axis . A lifting surface dramatic increase in lift by increasing the speed of the air
section without slats or distributed electric ducted fans over the top surface of the wing . The distributed small
( EDFs ) has a lift curve 1401 that is characterized by three electric propulsors alter the airflow over the wing in ways
variables: Czo 1400 , the lift coefficient when the angle of 50 not possible with one or a few large engines. The integration
attack is zero ; the lift curve slope Cza 1407 ; and the with slat and optionally flow modifiers, allows the airflow to
maximum lift coefficient, Clmax 1408. A lifting surface be tailored for best performance for a given phase of flight
section with leading edge slat typically is the same Clo and or maneuver . The present innovation can provide improved
Cl? as without, but with a much higher value of Clmax 1409 . low - speed control on takeoff, climb out , descent and land
A lifting surface section with the slat/nacelle / EDF system of 55 ing , enhanced stall characteristics and margins, reducing
the present invention exhibits a lift curve 1402 having loss -of - control (LoC ) during these critical periods and pro
different values of Clo, slope and Clmax compared to a vide improved handling qualities during gusts and cross
lifting surface section lacking EDFs ( 1401 ) . Specifically, the winds .
Clo value 1403 , lift curve slope 1404 and maximum lift The optional control system senses the state of each EDF,
1405 are all increased relative to like parameters of lift curve 60 slat , flow modifier and trailing edge surface; the aircraft
1401. The exact shape of the enhanced curve and the values attitude; and the surrounding air conditions. Based on these
of C?o 1403 , Cla 1404 and CLmax 1405 is a function of how and signals from a human pilot , an autopilot or internal
the exhaust from the EDF is molded by the EDFs 102 , the logic , it manages the electric power provided to each EDF
nacelles 103 , the slat geometry 101 , flow modifiers 602 , 603 , and configuration of the other surfaces. This integration of
604 , 605 , and 606 , the air entrainment in the gap 107 , and 65 the master controller unit with the distributed EDFs allows
the trailing edge surfaces as it flows over the upper aerody- for the novel and improved aerodynamics, reaction to pilot
namic surface 106 (e.g. see FIGS . 1 , 2 , 6 , 8 ) . or autonomous commands, virtual elimination of stalls and
 US 10,926,868 B1
13 14
reduction of the effect of turbulence . The instant innovation landing causing wakes to dissipate more rapidly. This may
will enhance short take -off and landing ( STOL ) perfor- allow airplanes to land closer together increasing the density
mance . of air traffic near airports.
Upper surface blowing over a portion of the lifting surface A dreaded situation in single engine aircraft is for the
using slat /nacelle /EDF systems and flow modifiers has the 5 engine to quit and a limitation of twin -engine aircraft is its
potential to greatly improve the lift coefficient on a substan- ability for safe flight on a single engine. This concept allows
tial portion of the lifting surface . Where previous upper for a decreased effect of an engine - out situation . If there are
surface blowing has affected a small portion of the lifting a high number of EDFs on each lifting surface , according to
surface area , this concept encompasses a substantial portion the instant innovation , the loss of single or even multiple
of the lifting surface . 10 motors can be compensated through the redistribution of
The increased lift coefficient of the airfoil throughout the power to the remaining EDFs . This aspect of the instant
substantial portion of the lifting surface area allows for a innovation greatly adds to the safety of an airplane.
smaller lifting surface area reducing the induced drag and By its very nature , the instant innovation helps the flow
remain attached to the airfoil and thus makes stalls unlikely.
thus effectively increasing the lift/drag ratio of the lifting
surface using the same energy as is being used for propul
15 By way of example, if the ADAHRS senses incipient stall at
sion .
any location on a lifting surface, it can alter the power to the
EDF or the configuration of the slat, nacelles or flow
For landing, takeoff, or other situations needing high lift modifiers to compensate for the incipient stall by entraining
at low speed , flaps can be deployed ( see FIG . 8 , 803 , 804 ) airflow . By managing the lift distribution on a lifting surface
on a portion of the trailing edge of the lifting surface. Upper 20 in cross winds can be compensated for greatly easing
surface blowing over a substantial portion of the lifting landing and taking off when the wind is not directly aligned
surface increases the lift dramatically when compared to with the runway.
traditional flap systems , allowing for improved STOL per- A system comprising leading -edge lifting surface slat and
formance. Since the lift coefficient can be greatly increased associated EDFs may power an aircraft in the event the
with the combination of blowing and flaps across a substan- 25 primary system is shut down or fails. Performance may be
tial portion of the lifting surface, there is no need for high limited to less than that possible with the primary propulsor
angles of attack for short take -off and landing. but is sufficient to add safety in a primary propulsor failure
Upper surface blowing over a portion of the lifting surface situation .
using slat/ nacelle /EDF systems and flow modifiers offer the It is to be understood that the system described in this
benefit of control of pitch , roll and yaw . By varying the 30 patent could be retrofitted to an existing airplane with
electrical power to the individual EDF motors or optionally minimal modifications and limited function or could be
controlling the slat or flow modifiers, the lift distribution and designed and built into a new airframe with higher or
thrust can be real - time tailored to control the airplane much complete functionality . As an addition to an existing air
as an aileron or lifting surface warping. This aspect of the frame the slat / nacelle /EDF system 100 could be fastened on
instant innovation may allow banking control without the 35 each wing and limited wiring supplying current and control
need for ailerons. Similarly, by controlling the thrust along run to the cockpit. In the cockpit, in addition to the needed
with the other options , the lift distribution may be symmetri- batteries ( a power source 1208 ) a single off /on switch could
cally maintained while the asymmetric trust may cause the be supplied for the pilot 1202 to actuate 1206 and deactuate
airplane to yaw. Finally, if distributed electric ducted fans the system . In such a minimal system the master controller
are integrated into multiple surfaces of the airplane, for 40 1201 is reduced to being the off / on switch . All the other
example, the lifting surface and horizontal tail or two elements of FIG . 12 could be optional addons for to the
tandem lifting surfaces; then pitch may be controlled by the system .
allocation of power the EDFs or the modification of the flow It is to be understood that the system described in this
emanating from them on each surface . patent could be retrofitted or applied to lifting surfaces other
The system also allows real -time lift redistribution to 45 than the main lifting wing , such as to canards or horizontal
improve ride qualities through active gust alleviation . Here , stabilators .
accelerations to the airframe and relative wind angles can be It is to be understood that the foregoing embodiments are
sensed by the ADAHRS and the lift distribution changed to exemplary, and that the innovative technology is by no
accommodate gusts offering improved ride qualities. Studies means limited to only the embodiments disclosed herein .
have shown that altering the lift distribution using actively 50 Equivalent variations not hitherto disclosed are to be under
controlled flaps and ailerons reduced accelerations by stood as remaining within the scope and the spirit of the
15-50% on a Cessna 1302B . The current innovation can instant innovation , as claimed in the claims below.
even have a greater effect on the lift distribution than
discrete trailing edge devices (i.e. flaps and ailerons) and What is claimed is :
thus may give even a greater reduction in accelerations and 55 1. A powered aerodynamic lift device , comprising:
thus better ride qualities. Gust alleviation can also improve a ) one or more slat / nacelle /EDF lift assemblies distributed
aircraft structure life by reducing the loads on the airframe. along a span of an upper aerodynamic surface near a
A limitation on the spacing of aircraft when landing is the leading edge of an aerodynamic lifting element ( ALE ) ,
effect of the wake turbulence one airplane has on another each slat/nacelle / EDF lift assembly comprising:
aircraft that is trailing it . Wake turbulence is caused by the 60 i ) a slat positioned above the leading edge of the
lifting surface tip vortex shed in creating lift and producing aerodynamic lifting element;
induced drag. Aircraft spacing at airports, and thus the traffic ii ) two or more nacelles positioned beneath and con
density at them , is determined by a safe wake clearance . It nected to the slat , wherein said nacelles are spaced
has been shown that the sensitivity of wakes to merge and apart to create at least one gap between the slat and
dissipate is sensitive to small changes in the spanwise load 65 the leading edge of an aerodynamic lifting element;
distribution . According to the instant innovation, the control ii ) an electric duct fan (EDF ) housed within each of the
system may affect the lift distribution during approach and one or more nacelles , each EDF comprising a fan and
 US 10,926,868 B1
15 16
a power source to operate the fan , wherein each EDF prising a master control unit able to control the operation of
forces accelerated air through the fan and the gaps ; one or more slat / nacelle /EDF lift assemblies , the master
and control unit comprising: 1 ) a plurality of electronic speed
b ) wherein the one or more slat/nacelle / EDF lift assem controllers (ESCs ) able to control the speed of the EDFs , and
blies provide the aerodynamic lifting element increased 5 2) 12.a plurality of actuators .
lift and thrust, improved stall characteristics and mar whereinThethepowered aerodynamic lift device of claim 11 ,
master control unit further controls the modu
gins , enhanced low - speed control and reduced loss - of lation of energy
control during an aircraft's takeoff and landing, and wherein the powersupplied by a power source to the EDFs ,
improved aircraft handling during gusts and cross 10 teries, a fuel cell , ansource engine
comprises one or more of: bat
/generator or other electrical
winds.
2. The powered aerodynamic lift device of claim 1 , further energy source.
comprising a) at least one aerodynamic lifting element wherein 13. The powered aerodynamic lift device of claim 12 ,
(ALE ) on an air ft, the ALE comprising a span , the leading manuallytheor automatically
EDF power source is controlled by the pilot ,
or some combination thereof.
edge, a trailing edge, and the upper aerodynamic surface , 14. The powered aerodynamic lift device of claim 12 ,
wherein at least one of the slat /nacelle /EDF lift assemblies 15
is installed on the at least one ALE . wherein the EDF power source is able to partially power the
3. The powered aerodynamic lift device of claim 1 , aircraft in the event of a primary aircraft engine failure .
15. The powered aerodynamic lift device of claim 12 ,
wherein the slat has a length that is substantially equal to the wherein a control of the EDF power source is an analog or
span of the aerodynamic lifting element.
4. The powered aerodynamic lift device of claim 1 , 20 digital , open or closed loop circuit, comprising sensors able
wherein the slat has a length that is less than the span of the to detect: an angle -of - attack, an airspeed , and a local airflow
aerodynamic lifting element. pressures and velocities.
5. The powered aerodynamic lift device of claim 1 , where 16. The powered aerodynamic lift device of claim 11 ,
the slat of the slat /nacelle /EDF lift assembly comprises a wherein the actuators are coupled to at least one flow
variable cross section or a twist. 25 modifier on the aerodynamic lifting element ( ALE ).
6. The powered aerodynamic lift device of claim 1 , 17. The powered aerodynamic lift device of claim 11 ,
wherein the one or more nacelles and /or the slat /nacelle / wherein the master control unit further controls the geomet
ric position or angle of the one or more slats such that the lift
EDF lift assembly are retractable into the aerodynamic and thrust profiles along the span of the ALE are altered .
lifting element. 18. The powered aerodynamic lift device of claim 11 ,
7. The powered aerodynamic lift device of claim 1 , 30 wherein the master control unit further comprises one or
wherein the slat /nacelle /EDF lift assembly is detachable and more Air Data / Attitude /Heading Reference System
securely attachable from the aerodynamic lifting element. ( ADAHRS ) that measure the state of the EDF comprising
8. The powered aerodynamic lift device of claim 1 , one or more of: a rotational speed , a power utilized or air
comprising cascaded slat /nacelle /EDF lift assemblies .
9. The powered aerodynamic lift device of claim 2 , 35 flow rate, and sends the information back to the master
controller unit.
wherein the ALE further comprises a trailing edge flap. 19. The powered aerodynamic lift device of claim 2 ,
10. The powered aerodynamic lift device of claim 1 , further comprising a bottom surface of the slat formed , or an
further comprising: one or more lift modifiers positioned upper surface of the ALE formed , to guide an EDF exhaust
aftward of the slat/nacelle / EDF lift assembly, or on the slat , 40 over the ALE to create a nozzle of enhanced accelerated
or on one or more nacelles . airflow .
11. The powered aerodynamic lift device of claim 1 ,
further comprising an electrical circuit control system com