Conceptual Design of a Highly Maneuverable Flying Vehicle for Future Urban Mobility
This study encompasses the engineering analysis of Airstream, a flying vehicle developed within the framework of Urban Air Mobility as an alternative transportation solution, equipped with a hydrogen fuel cell and dual-mode mobility capability, and possessing high maneuverability. Airstream is equipped with a hybrid propulsion system that offers near-zero emission values, based on a sustainability-focused transportation approach. For ground mode, an electric motor with a power of 178 kW is used, while for vertical takeoff and flight mode, eight independent electric motors with a power of 40 kW each are utilized. The hydrogen fuel cell, which forms the basis of the hybrid system, provides high efficiency throughout the mission profile thanks to battery-supported energy sharing. In the design, biomimicry and symmetrical layout principles have been adopted, and especially through the integration of steerable propellers into the wheel hubs, an effective vertical takeoff/landing performance has been achieved even in confined spaces. The vehicle can respond dynamically during land-air transitions thanks to its jump-assisted active suspension system; flight stability is maintained through gyroscopic stabilization and autonomous orientation control systems. The carbon fiber composite body and titanium alloy wheels used in the structural system both increase the load capacity and contribute to overall energy efficiency by reducing the system's weight. Flight control is provided in an integrated manner with multi-layered navigation systems such as GNSS, VOR/DME, ILS, and TCAS through a central flight computer developed by ASELSAN. Additionally, safety elements such as fire detection and suppression modules, parachute-assisted emergency landing systems, and electromagnetic protection ensure the integrity of the system. Airstream offers a concrete engineering solution for the smart and sustainable transportation systems of the future with its high performance, eco-friendly structure, safety-focused system design, and technological components. Prototyping and flight tests will guide the integration of this concept into commercial applications.
