Personal Air Vehicle Lift Fan Design (PAV-LiFaD)

With the significant advancements in motor efficiency and energy storage technology, electric propulsion systems have become viable power plants and power supplements to aircraft. Offering high power-to-weight ratios, electric drive systems significantly increase the design capabilities for vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) capable platforms. Ducted fans offer the ability to develop an enclosed and integrated airframe solution. Further propulsion research and development is required to satisfy the mission range and safety requirements for a manned long range personal air vehicle capable of carrying out a 2 hour mission with the ability to both fly and drive on a single tank of fuel. Aurora Flight Science’s experience with ducted fan technology will be combined with ThinGap’s innovative ring motor technology to design a lift fan unit capable of meeting the need for a safe, compact, lightweight, reliable, and scalable electric power plant for use in a personal air vehicle designed to carry out military operations over a variety of terrains.