Fluidic Propulsion Augmented Parachute

Freedom Flight Works, Inc. (FFW) will integrate Jetoptera Fluidic Propulsion SystemsÖ (FPSÖ) with light weight batteries, electric, motors and compressors with a new type of ram-air parafoil wing with integrated propulsion that augments lift on the upper surface of the wing and that also features both stiffening and added opening performance enabled with pressurized air. ĀThe solution here proposed for CHUTE will meet the requirements and have estimated performance of low altitude swoop.An exceptional team is poised to build on: 1) FFWÆs innovation on parafoil propulsion and performance 2) JetopteraÆs proprietary and ideally suited FPSÖ, 3) the vast rigging and parachute operations experience of TacAirOps which runs the military free fall school and drop zone for US Navy, 4) the innovative and rapid prototyping capability of Strong Parachutes, and 4) the battery technology and program management expertise of Ombra, LLC.Ā The project will leverage investment made across multiple powered parafoil, advanced propulsion, and compact power systems programs, a team with harmonious cultures of innovation, and a plan to achieve rapid spiral development to achieve a breakthrough in skydive/ airdrop canopy performance that meets the ambitious technical and operational goals of CHUTE.Fluidic Propulsion integrated with a USB wing provides an elegant solution with no moving parts in the wing and has a low acoustic and thermal signature.Ā The pressurized air required to power the FPS also provides energy for facilitating reliable opening, selective canopy stiffening for an improved aerodynamic profile, and supports controllability through vectored air steering and lift control augmentation. The application and integration of FPS and USB technologies will be enabled by application of cutting-edge battery and compressor technologies that are currently under active development by the Team.ĀDuring this Phase I program the Team will develop a practical approach for rapid development of an integrated FPAP that will include the following core elements:Design, tooling, fabrication and testing of elastomeric FPSÖ thrustersDetermination of the most desirable method for integrating elastomeric thruster into the canopy, including how they will be attached, what locations provide the best aerodynamic benefits, and thruster sizing and airflow requirements (this will include air ducting requirements from the compressor source)Development of a wing design that will incorporate air-pressure stiffening, support inclusion of elastomeric FPS, and that will be packable, reliable, and aerodynamically efficient.System-level considerations for ergonomics, packaging and production including: battery and compressor locations, wing rigging, harness design, and power controls interfaceDevelopment and integration of the above technologies will keep firmly focused on achieving the objectives advanced by DARPA for CHUTE.