Bee-Plane TRL3

Bee Plane collaborative project TRL3 Task is active since 2021/2022 to 2023/2024

Please find project updated TRL2/3 gate summary.
File:20220720 Bee-Plane - Short Description v10-1.pdf



TRL3 started in 2021/22 with 2 projects within Estaca engineering university.

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• Estaca project on aircraft architecture :

File:10052022 Soutenance ESTACA Architecture.pdf
File:10052022 Rapport final PIA.pdf

Overall study of the Beeplane. Major changes are on engines configuration and cockpit integration with main landing gear.

• Estaca project on the detachable mechanism for our modular aircraft

File:20220510 soutenance finale.pdf
File:20220510 Rapport PIA.pdf

Focus is made on fuel, air and electrical interface.

TRL3 Beeplane projects and objectives

• Start the scale mock-up of the bee plane TRL3
  
• Complete Bee-Plane TRL3 in 5 active years of collaborative work
  
• Launch academic projects for 2021/22 and next years
  
• Find adequate public funding scheme with an European consortium
  
• Find new academic and industrial partners
  

Technoplane SAS, in collaboration with several universities and academic partners, has launched a collaborative project called Bee-Plane. This project aims to develop a medium-range aircraft with a detachable fuselage, with the goal of reducing flight costs by 50% while improving operating logistic costs and fuel burn, using today's engines.

The detachable fuselage is a unique feature of Bee-Plane, which makes it a versatile aircraft with multiple usages, such as a hospital or water bomber. This feature adds to the aircraft's polyvalent usage, making it an ideal choice for various civil forces.

The Bee-Plane project is a collaborative R&D project that generates open innovation. All work from academic partners is available on wiki, and the coordination is made by Technoplane SAS. The project is looking for new partners, both academic and industrial, and funding from both industrial and public sources.

Bee-Plane is a proprietary project with its patents, trademarks, and design models. However, it also follows an open-source approach, using a dedicated lesser open source license. This license allows anyone to contribute to the project, creating a community of open innovation.

The Bee-Plane technology review includes a hybrid turbofan and turboprop PWC150A engine, a carbon body, electronic wiring, and noise reduction features. The Bee-Plane project aims to develop an ambitious aircraft of 2050, which is both collaborative and innovative.

The detachable fuselage of Bee-Plane can accommodate 220 passengers in full economy, with rows of 3+4+3 seats and one main central passenger door on each side. The detachable fuselage makes the aircraft highly flexible, making it possible to modify the fuselage to suit the needs of different passengers or cargo types.

Bee-Plane is an ambitious project that requires the involvement of various academic and industrial partners. The project is looking for new partners and funding to help develop this innovative aircraft. Join the Bee-Plane project and contribute to the development of an aircraft that has the potential to revolutionize the aviation industry.

Beeplane project past TRLs

Bee-Plane TRL 2
Bee-Plane TRL 1
Bee-Plane TRL 0

Beeplane: The Future of Aircraft

Beeplane is a revolutionary project that proposes a detachable and interchangeable fuselage for aircraft. The project aims to optimize air transportation by offering a rapid and efficient connection between two separate parts: the Bee and the Basket. The Bee is the main structure of the aircraft, comprising the wings, engines, landing gear, and cockpit. On the other hand, the Basket is a detachable lower part of the aircraft, which can be customized according to the specific needs of the passengers or cargo.

The Beeplane project presents several advantages for the aviation industry, such as the ability to maximize the speed of the connections between the Bee and the Basket, and the flexibility to adapt to various situations. In this article, we will delve deeper into the Beeplane project, discussing its main features, the technical challenges it presents, and the potential impact it could have on the future of aircraft.

The Technical Features of Beeplane

One of the most impressive technical features of Beeplane is its ability to connect the Bee and the Basket in a matter of minutes. The connection is made possible through a system of attachment that has been optimized for maximum efficiency and reliability. The system is composed of a base of fixation with a length of 7 meters and a width of 1 meter, designed to support the weight of a 60-ton Basket.

The connection between the Bee and the Basket is made using a mechanism called the twist-lock. This mechanism is widely used in the maritime and road transport industries to secure containers quickly and efficiently. The twist-lock is made up of a male part that rotates 90 degrees around its axis to lock into the female part of the system.

To ensure the stability of the connection, the Beeplane project team opted for an "I" shaped solution that aligns the Bee and the Basket perfectly. This solution provides the necessary stability during takeoff and landing, and ensures a smooth and comfortable flight.

Technical Challenges of the Beeplane Project

Despite the many advantages of the Beeplane project, it presents several technical challenges that must be overcome to ensure its success. One of the most significant challenges is the optimization of the aerodynamics of the system, both when the Bee is flying solo and when it is carrying the Basket.

Another challenge is the resistance of the Basket during landing, which is a critical phase of the flight. The Beeplane project team conducted a structural study of the Basket, optimizing its design to withstand the forces generated during landing. They also explored the feasibility of a water-bombing Basket for firefighting purposes, which presented its own set of challenges.

Another important technical challenge was the optimization of the connections between the Bee and the Basket. The Beeplane project team developed a system of connections for fuel, air, electricity, and information exchange. They also automated the connection process to save time and reduce human error.

The Potential Impact of Beeplane on the Future of Aircraft

The Beeplane project presents a significant impact on the future of the aviation industry. It offers a new way of thinking about aircraft design, where detachable and interchangeable parts can be assembled quickly and efficiently, without compromising safety or comfort. This innovation can reduce the time spent on the ground, optimize the use of the aircraft, and reduce operational costs.

Furthermore, the Beeplane project opens up new possibilities for emergency and humanitarian aid situations, where a rapid response is critical. The ability to transport people, equipment, and supplies to areas affected by natural disasters, conflict, or medical emergencies could save countless lives.

In conclusion, the Beeplane project is a game-changer for the aviation industry, offering a unique approach to aircraft design and operations. Its technical features, challenges, and potential impact make it an exciting development to follow in the years to come.