The Concept of a Zero Refueling-Landing Logistics Support eVTOL with Container Loaded Mobile Battery

摘要

This paper suggests a system of container handling logistics support eVTOL (electrical VTOL) aircrafts that require no landing for refueling no matter how long their operation will be. Such aircraft should help the logistics practice as an extra range flying crane to carry mixed cargo from a point to another, or between different long-range transports (e.g. flatcars, truck chassis). In this system, mobile batteries loaded on each container will be charged while being on the ground waiting to be handled by the aircraft and feed the energy once it is attached. This function can be only achieved by the use of electricity so that the energy can be easily and safely transferred to the airframe, and also by the low maintenance requirement of the electric motors used as powertrain so that such intermittent use will result in low running cost. This paper will discuss the design of the electrical ecosystem to sustain this new mode of logistics, including the argument on ground charge points, depots, and battery configurations.