A High T/W, Low TSFC Propulsion System for PAV Applications

To-date, the realization of VTOL personal air vehicles capable of executing agile missions has largely been limited by the availability of high T/W, low fuel-consumption propulsion systems with minimal noise and IR signatures. Ventions therefore proposes the development of an innovative, high T/W, low-TSFC turbofan in the 100-500lbf thrust-class for a variety of air-vehicle applications. The proposed concept uses a novel means for coupling a high-speed turbojet core with a low-speed fan spool so as to realize a high bypass ratio turbofan(and hence, low-TSFC) in a light-weight, low-cost manner without the use of a mechanical coupling or gearbox. The critical aspects of this coupling have already been demonstrated as part of a previous DARPA-funded effort; the proposed Phase I effort therefore seeks to adapt the specific engine for a PAV application.