Propulsion system for a V/STOL aircraft
The invention is a propulsion system for powering an aircraft in both vertical and horizontal flight modes. In detail, the invention comprises a gas-driven ducted lift fan mounted in the aircraft for providing thrust in the vertical flight mode. A turbofan engine is mounted in the aircraft that comprises a fan section for providing thrust in the horizontal flight mode and a turboshaft engine having an output drive shaft coupled to the fan section for driving same. A gas transfer duct is mounted in the aircraft having a first end adapted to receive exhaust air from the fan section and a second end coupled to the lift fan. A turbocompressor is mounted in the transfer duct and a combustor is mounted in the transfer duct between the turbocompressor and the lift fan, the combustor for receiving and burning fuel and providing combustion gases for driving the ducted left fan. A shafting system couples the turbocompressor to the output shaft of the turboshaft engine. A decoupling system is connected to the shafting system for decoupling the turbocompressor from the output shaft of the turboshaft engine. 7 figs.
- Assignee:
- Lockheed Corp., Calabasas, CA (United States)
- Patent Number(s):
- US 5275356; A
- Application Number:
- PPN: US 7-913340
- OSTI ID:
- 6892220
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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