CycloTech GmbH and Yamato Holdings Co., Ltd. have announced completion of a joint feasibility study on applying a new thrust vectoring propulsion technology, named CycloRotors, to create a mid-class cargo eVTOL (electric vertical take-off and landing) aircraft which they say, is capable of precision landing into confined areas and able to handle challenging wind conditions, key features for urban airborne logistic operations.
The press release reports: “The study incorporated two innovative elements: PUPA701 (Pod Unit for Parcel Air-transportation), developed by Yamato, and CycloRotors, an innovative 360° thrust vectoring aviation propulsion system developed by CycloTech.
“The PUPA701 is part of the PUPA family of detachable and compatible cargo pods to be carried by eVTOL aircrafts or other advanced air vehicles. It enables a separate loading/ unloading sequence from the aircraft’s process cycle to secure a safe and fast ground handling and efficient cargo logistics process. In the past years, Yamato has conducted multiple R&D efforts for this concept to realize a cargo eVTOL system that is highly feasible and able to be integrated into existing systems, reflecting its know-how on ground logistics that originates from its century-old business.
“CycloRotors are based on the same principle as the Voith-Schneider-Propeller, successfully applied for decades for highly agile and stable ships in the maritime industry. The compact design and direct and instant control of magnitude and direction of thrust offer a natural, stable transition from hover to forward flight and superior manoeuvrability. The unique characteristics of CycloRotors give vehicle manufacturers unprecedented freedom in designing and operating aircraft and drones”.
Further Information
https://yamato-hd.co.jp/english/news/2022/
(Image: Yamato Holdings Co., Ltd)