Difference between revisions of "Mini-Bee"

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[[Category:Hybrid Propulsion]]
 
[[Category:Hybrid Propulsion]]
  
−
= Mini-Bee Hybrid VTOL =
+
__NOTOC__
  
−
[[File:01_hero_principal_minibee.png|1200px|center|Mini-Bee Hybrid VTOL – humanitarian mission concept]]
+
<div style="font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; color:#142033; line-height:1.55;">
  
−
'''Mini-Bee''' is a collaborative hybrid VTOL multicopter project coordinated by '''Technoplane SAS''' under the '''Lesser Open Bee License 1.3'''.
+
<!-- ===================================================== -->
 +
<!-- HERO SECTION -->
 +
<!-- ===================================================== -->
  
−
The project aims to develop a lightweight, container-deployable hybrid VTOL aircraft dedicated to urgent humanitarian missions, light air ambulance operations, emergency logistics and field deployment in areas where runway access is limited or unavailable.
+
<div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; border-radius:28px; background:linear-gradient(135deg,#07111f 0%,#10233d 48%,#7f1d1d 100%); color:white; padding:42px 42px 34px 42px; margin:0 0 28px 0; box-shadow:0 24px 60px rgba(15,23,42,0.28);">
 +
  <div style="max-width:1180px; margin:auto;">
 +
    <div style="display:inline-block; padding:7px 13px; border:1px solid rgba(255,255,255,0.22); border-radius:999px; background:rgba(255,255,255,0.08); font-size:13px; letter-spacing:0.08em; text-transform:uppercase; color:#e5e7eb;">
 +
      TRL4 demonstrator · Hybrid VTOL · Humanitarian aviation
 +
    </div>
  
−
The current reference configuration is the '''Mini-Bee P2H18''': a two-seat hybrid VTOL multicopter using '''18 distributed rotors''', a '''Rotax 916 iS''' thermal engine, twin '''EMRAX 208''' high-voltage electric machines, supercapacitor support and computerized flight control.
+
    <h1 style="font-size:50px; line-height:1.02; margin:22px 0 14px 0; max-width:900px; font-weight:800; letter-spacing:-0.04em;">
 +
      Mini-Bee Hybrid VTOL
 +
    </h1>
  
−
'''Current maturity level: TRL4 – demonstrator stage.'''
+
    <p style="font-size:21px; max-width:900px; color:#dbeafe; margin:0 0 26px 0;">
 +
      A collaborative hybrid VTOL multicopter concept designed for urgent humanitarian missions, light air ambulance operations, emergency logistics and rapid field deployment without runway dependency.
 +
    </p>
  
−
More information:
+
    <div style="border-radius:24px; overflow:hidden; background:rgba(255,255,255,0.06); border:1px solid rgba(255,255,255,0.14); padding:10px; margin:28px 0;">
−
* [https://www.mini-bee.com/ Mini-Bee website]
+
      [[File:01_hero_principal_minibee.png|1200px|center|Mini-Bee Hybrid VTOL – humanitarian mission concept]]
−
* [https://wiki.collaborativebee.com/ Collaborative Bee Wiki]
+
    </div>
−
* [http://www.bee-license.com/ Lesser Open Bee License 1.3]
+
 
 +
    <div style="display:grid; grid-template-columns:repeat(4,minmax(120px,1fr)); gap:14px; margin-top:24px;">
 +
      <div style="background:rgba(255,255,255,0.10); border:1px solid rgba(255,255,255,0.16); border-radius:18px; padding:18px;">
 +
        <div style="font-size:34px; font-weight:800;">18</div>
 +
        <div style="font-size:13px; color:#cbd5e1; text-transform:uppercase; letter-spacing:0.08em;">distributed rotors</div>
 +
      </div>
 +
      <div style="background:rgba(255,255,255,0.10); border:1px solid rgba(255,255,255,0.16); border-radius:18px; padding:18px;">
 +
        <div style="font-size:34px; font-weight:800;">450 km</div>
 +
        <div style="font-size:13px; color:#cbd5e1; text-transform:uppercase; letter-spacing:0.08em;">target range</div>
 +
      </div>
 +
      <div style="background:rgba(255,255,255,0.10); border:1px solid rgba(255,255,255,0.16); border-radius:18px; padding:18px;">
 +
        <div style="font-size:34px; font-weight:800;">160 km/h</div>
 +
        <div style="font-size:13px; color:#cbd5e1; text-transform:uppercase; letter-spacing:0.08em;">cruise speed</div>
 +
      </div>
 +
      <div style="background:rgba(255,255,255,0.10); border:1px solid rgba(255,255,255,0.16); border-radius:18px; padding:18px;">
 +
        <div style="font-size:34px; font-weight:800;">700 kg</div>
 +
        <div style="font-size:13px; color:#cbd5e1; text-transform:uppercase; letter-spacing:0.08em;">MTOW target</div>
 +
      </div>
 +
    </div>
 +
  </div>
 +
</div>
 +
 
 +
<!-- ===================================================== -->
 +
<!-- INTRO SUMMARY -->
 +
<!-- ===================================================== -->
 +
 
 +
<div style="display:grid; grid-template-columns:2fr 1fr; gap:24px; margin:28px 0;">
 +
  <div style="background:white; border:1px solid #e2e8f0; border-radius:24px; padding:28px; box-shadow:0 10px 34px rgba(15,23,42,0.08);">
 +
    <p style="font-size:18px; margin-top:0;">
 +
      <strong>Mini-Bee</strong> is a collaborative hybrid VTOL multicopter project coordinated by <strong>Technoplane SAS</strong> under the <strong>Lesser Open Bee License 1.3</strong>.
 +
    </p>
 +
    <p>
 +
      The current reference configuration is the <strong>Mini-Bee P2H18</strong>: a two-seat hybrid VTOL multicopter using <strong>18 distributed rotors</strong>, a <strong>Rotax 916 iS</strong> thermal engine, twin <strong>EMRAX 208</strong> high-voltage electric machines, supercapacitor support and computerized flight control.
 +
    </p>
 +
    <p style="margin-bottom:0;">
 +
      <strong>Current maturity level:</strong> TRL4 – demonstrator stage.
 +
    </p>
 +
  </div>
 +
 
 +
  <div style="background:#0f172a; color:white; border-radius:24px; padding:28px; box-shadow:0 10px 34px rgba(15,23,42,0.16);">
 +
    <div style="font-size:13px; letter-spacing:0.1em; text-transform:uppercase; color:#93c5fd; margin-bottom:14px;">Official links</div>
 +
    <ul style="margin:0; padding-left:20px;">
 +
      <li>[https://www.mini-bee.com/ Mini-Bee website]</li>
 +
      <li>[https://wiki.collaborativebee.com/ Collaborative Bee Wiki]</li>
 +
      <li>[http://www.bee-license.com/ Lesser Open Bee License 1.3]</li>
 +
    </ul>
 +
  </div>
 +
</div>
 +
 
 +
<!-- ===================================================== -->
 +
<!-- PROJECT VISION -->
 +
<!-- ===================================================== -->
  
 
== Project Vision ==
 
== Project Vision ==
  
−
Mini-Bee is not only a VTOL technology demonstrator. It is designed around a mission need: reaching people and equipment in difficult environments where conventional ground access is slow, damaged or unavailable.
+
<div style="background:#f8fafc; border-left:6px solid #dc2626; border-radius:18px; padding:24px 28px; margin:18px 0 24px 0;">
 +
  <p style="font-size:18px; margin:0;">
 +
    Mini-Bee is not only a VTOL technology demonstrator. It is designed around a mission need: reaching people and equipment in difficult environments where conventional ground access is slow, damaged or unavailable.
 +
  </p>
 +
</div>
  
−
The aircraft concept focuses on:
+
<div style="display:grid; grid-template-columns:repeat(3,minmax(0,1fr)); gap:16px; margin:24px 0;">
 +
  <div style="background:white; border:1px solid #e2e8f0; border-radius:20px; padding:22px; box-shadow:0 8px 24px rgba(15,23,42,0.06);">
 +
    <div style="font-size:22px; font-weight:800; color:#991b1b; margin-bottom:8px;">Medical response</div>
 +
    <p style="margin:0; color:#475569;">Rapid access for a pilot, doctor, operator or stabilized passenger in areas where ground routes are disrupted.</p>
 +
  </div>
 +
  <div style="background:white; border:1px solid #e2e8f0; border-radius:20px; padding:22px; box-shadow:0 8px 24px rgba(15,23,42,0.06);">
 +
    <div style="font-size:22px; font-weight:800; color:#991b1b; margin-bottom:8px;">Field deployment</div>
 +
    <p style="margin:0; color:#475569;">A modular logistics concept based on LD3 air cargo containers and controlled assembly near the mission area.</p>
 +
  </div>
 +
  <div style="background:white; border:1px solid #e2e8f0; border-radius:20px; padding:22px; box-shadow:0 8px 24px rgba(15,23,42,0.06);">
 +
    <div style="font-size:22px; font-weight:800; color:#991b1b; margin-bottom:8px;">Lower complexity</div>
 +
    <p style="margin:0; color:#475569;">A practical VTOL demonstrator intended to reduce deployment complexity compared with conventional helicopter logistics.</p>
 +
  </div>
 +
</div>
  
−
* rapid medical response;
+
The project follows an open-innovation approach where academics, industrial partners, independent contributors and humanitarian stakeholders can contribute to the development of a practical VTOL platform.
−
* access to isolated areas;
 
−
* air transport of a doctor, operator or stabilized passenger;
 
−
* emergency logistics;
 
−
* deployment from standard air cargo logistics;
 
−
* lower operational complexity than conventional helicopter deployment.
 
  
−
The project follows an open-innovation approach where academics, industrial partners, independent contributors and humanitarian stakeholders can contribute to the development of a practical VTOL platform.
+
<!-- ===================================================== -->
 +
<!-- REFERENCE CONFIGURATION -->
 +
<!-- ===================================================== -->
  
 
== Reference Configuration – Mini-Bee P2H18 ==
 
== Reference Configuration – Mini-Bee P2H18 ==
  
−
[[File:02_vue_produit_studio_minibee.png|900px|center|Mini-Bee P2H18 reference configuration]]
+
<div style="background:white; border:1px solid #e2e8f0; border-radius:24px; padding:20px; box-shadow:0 10px 34px rgba(15,23,42,0.08); margin:18px 0 24px 0;">
 +
  [[File:02_vue_produit_studio_minibee.png|1000px|center|Mini-Bee P2H18 reference configuration]]
 +
</div>
  
−
{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%; text-align:left;"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%; text-align:left; border-collapse:collapse;"
−
! Parameter
+
! style="width:32%; background:#0f172a; color:white;" | Parameter
−
! Current reference value
+
! style="background:#0f172a; color:white;" | Current reference value
 
|-
 
|-
 
| Aircraft type
 
| Aircraft type
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| TRL4 – demonstrator stage
 
| TRL4 – demonstrator stage
 
|}
 
|}
 +
 +
<!-- ===================================================== -->
 +
<!-- VISUAL OVERVIEW -->
 +
<!-- ===================================================== -->
  
 
== Visual Overview ==
 
== Visual Overview ==
  
−
<gallery mode="packed-hover" heights="180">
+
<div style="background:#f8fafc; border:1px solid #e2e8f0; border-radius:22px; padding:22px; margin:18px 0 26px 0;">
−
File:01_hero_principal_minibee.png|Hero view – Mini-Bee humanitarian VTOL
+
  <p style="margin-top:0;">
−
File:02_vue_produit_studio_minibee.png|Reference product view
+
    The following visual library is prepared for the official Mini-Bee image set. The aircraft configuration must remain unchanged: white Mini-Bee fuselage, homogeneous hexagonal upper rotor structure, symmetrical metallic tubular arms, triangulated structure connected to the central hub, and exactly 18 rotors with 18 visible propellers.
 +
  </p>
 +
 
 +
<gallery mode="packed-hover" heights="190">
 +
File:01_hero_principal_minibee.png|Hero view – humanitarian VTOL concept
 +
File:02_vue_produit_studio_minibee.png|Reference product view – P2H18
 
File:03_architecture_technique_minibee.png|Hybrid technical architecture
 
File:03_architecture_technique_minibee.png|Hybrid technical architecture
 
File:04_mission_air_ambulance_minibee.png|Light air ambulance mission
 
File:04_mission_air_ambulance_minibee.png|Light air ambulance mission
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File:10_tarmac_assembly_minibee.png|Tarmac assembly
 
File:10_tarmac_assembly_minibee.png|Tarmac assembly
 
</gallery>
 
</gallery>
 +
</div>
 +
 +
<!-- ===================================================== -->
 +
<!-- MISSION LOGIC -->
 +
<!-- ===================================================== -->
  
 
== Mission Logic First ==
 
== Mission Logic First ==
  
−
The Mini-Bee project follows a mission-first design logic. The aim is not to reproduce an air taxi concept, but to study a practical aircraft for humanitarian and emergency operations.
+
<div style="display:grid; grid-template-columns:1.05fr 0.95fr; gap:24px; align-items:start; margin:20px 0 28px 0;">
 +
  <div>
 +
    <p>
 +
      The Mini-Bee project follows a mission-first design logic. The aim is not to reproduce an air taxi concept, but to study a practical aircraft for humanitarian and emergency operations.
 +
    </p>
 +
    <p>The aircraft is intended for situations where:</p>
 +
    <ul>
 +
      <li>roads are damaged, slow or unavailable;</li>
 +
      <li>a conventional helicopter is too costly or difficult to deploy;</li>
 +
      <li>a runway is not available;</li>
 +
      <li>rapid access is more important than high cruise speed;</li>
 +
      <li>one pilot and one passenger/operator are sufficient;</li>
 +
      <li>compact logistics and field assembly are essential.</li>
 +
    </ul>
 +
  </div>
  
−
The aircraft is intended for situations where:
+
  <div style="background:#0f172a; color:white; border-radius:24px; padding:26px; box-shadow:0 12px 36px rgba(15,23,42,0.20);">
 +
    <div style="font-size:13px; letter-spacing:0.1em; text-transform:uppercase; color:#93c5fd; margin-bottom:10px;">Mission design principle</div>
 +
    <div style="font-size:30px; line-height:1.1; font-weight:800; margin-bottom:12px;">Reach the mission area first.</div>
 +
    <p style="color:#cbd5e1; margin:0;">Mini-Bee prioritizes practical access, deployability and emergency usefulness over luxury mobility or high-speed transport.</p>
 +
  </div>
 +
</div>
  
−
* roads are damaged, slow or unavailable;
+
<!-- ===================================================== -->
−
* a conventional helicopter is too costly or difficult to deploy;
+
<!-- CORE MISSIONS -->
−
* a runway is not available;
+
<!-- ===================================================== -->
−
* rapid access is more important than high cruise speed;
 
−
* one pilot and one passenger/operator are sufficient;
 
−
* compact logistics and field assembly are essential.
 
  
 
== Core Humanitarian Missions ==
 
== Core Humanitarian Missions ==
  
−
=== Light Air Ambulance ===
+
<div style="display:grid; grid-template-columns:repeat(2,minmax(0,1fr)); gap:22px; margin:20px 0;">
−
 
+
  <div style="background:white; border:1px solid #e2e8f0; border-radius:24px; overflow:hidden; box-shadow:0 10px 30px rgba(15,23,42,0.08);">
−
[[File:04_mission_air_ambulance_minibee.png|900px|center|Mini-Bee light air ambulance mission]]
+
    [[File:04_mission_air_ambulance_minibee.png|700px|center|Mini-Bee light air ambulance mission]]
−
 
+
    <div style="padding:24px;">
−
Mini-Bee is primarily studied as a light air ambulance and medical response platform.
+
      <h3 style="margin-top:0; color:#991b1b;">Light Air Ambulance</h3>
−
 
+
      <p>Mini-Bee is primarily studied as a light air ambulance and medical response platform.</p>
−
Potential medical use cases include:
+
      <ul>
 +
        <li>transport of a doctor or medical operator;</li>
 +
        <li>access to isolated clinics or mountain areas;</li>
 +
        <li>evacuation of a stabilized patient;</li>
 +
        <li>delivery of medical supplies to remote sites.</li>
 +
      </ul>
 +
    </div>
 +
  </div>
  
−
* transport of a doctor or medical operator;
+
  <div style="background:white; border:1px solid #e2e8f0; border-radius:24px; overflow:hidden; box-shadow:0 10px 30px rgba(15,23,42,0.08);">
−
* access to isolated clinics or mountain areas;
+
    [[File:05_mission_disaster_relief_minibee.png|700px|center|Mini-Bee disaster relief mission]]
−
* evacuation of a stabilized patient;
+
    <div style="padding:24px;">
−
* first response after infrastructure disruption;
+
      <h3 style="margin-top:0; color:#991b1b;">Disaster Relief</h3>
−
* delivery of medical supplies to remote sites.
+
      <p>In disaster zones, the first operational difficulty is often access.</p>
 +
      <ul>
 +
        <li>rapid reconnaissance;</li>
 +
        <li>delivery of urgent supplies;</li>
 +
        <li>transport of a field operator;</li>
 +
        <li>support after road or bridge damage.</li>
 +
      </ul>
 +
    </div>
 +
  </div>
  
−
This mission is aligned with the aircraft’s two-seat configuration: one pilot and one passenger, medical operator or stabilized patient depending on the mission scenario.
+
  <div style="background:white; border:1px solid #e2e8f0; border-radius:24px; overflow:hidden; box-shadow:0 10px 30px rgba(15,23,42,0.08);">
 +
    [[File:06_mission_remote_access_minibee.png|700px|center|Mini-Bee remote access mission]]
 +
    <div style="padding:24px;">
 +
      <h3 style="margin-top:0; color:#991b1b;">Remote Access</h3>
 +
      <p>Remote areas require aircraft that can operate without a runway.</p>
 +
      <ul>
 +
        <li>isolated medical sites;</li>
 +
        <li>mountain rescue support;</li>
 +
        <li>island-to-island emergency transport;</li>
 +
        <li>temporary field operations.</li>
 +
      </ul>
 +
    </div>
 +
  </div>
  
−
=== Disaster Relief ===
+
  <div style="background:white; border:1px solid #e2e8f0; border-radius:24px; overflow:hidden; box-shadow:0 10px 30px rgba(15,23,42,0.08);">
 +
    [[File:07_mission_emergency_energy_minibee.png|700px|center|Mini-Bee emergency energy support mission]]
 +
    <div style="padding:24px;">
 +
      <h3 style="margin-top:0; color:#991b1b;">Emergency Energy Support</h3>
 +
      <p>The hybrid architecture is also studied for emergency power support.</p>
 +
      <ul>
 +
        <li>emergency electrical generation;</li>
 +
        <li>crisis-site power support;</li>
 +
        <li>mobile energy buffer using supercapacitors;</li>
 +
        <li>support to temporary medical units.</li>
 +
      </ul>
 +
    </div>
 +
  </div>
 +
</div>
  
−
[[File:05_mission_disaster_relief_minibee.png|900px|center|Mini-Bee disaster relief mission]]
+
<!-- ===================================================== -->
−
 
+
<!-- HYBRID PROPULSION -->
−
In disaster zones, the first operational difficulty is often access. Floods, earthquakes, landslides, storms or damaged roads can delay response teams.
+
<!-- ===================================================== -->
−
 
 
−
Mini-Bee is studied as a compact VTOL support platform for:
 
−
 
 
−
* rapid reconnaissance;
 
−
* delivery of urgent supplies;
 
−
* transport of a field operator;
 
−
* support after road or bridge damage;
 
−
* search and localization in difficult terrain.
 
−
 
 
−
=== Remote Access ===
 
−
 
 
−
[[File:06_mission_remote_access_minibee.png|900px|center|Mini-Bee remote access mission]]
 
−
 
 
−
Remote areas such as islands, mountain valleys, isolated villages or areas without road infrastructure require aircraft that can operate without a runway.
 
−
 
 
−
Mini-Bee’s VTOL architecture makes it relevant for:
 
−
 
 
−
* isolated medical sites;
 
−
* mountain rescue support;
 
−
* island-to-island emergency transport;
 
−
* access to humanitarian camps;
 
−
* temporary field operations.
 
−
 
 
−
=== Emergency Energy Support ===
 
−
 
 
−
[[File:07_mission_emergency_energy_minibee.png|900px|center|Mini-Bee emergency energy support mission]]
 
−
 
 
−
The hybrid architecture is also studied for emergency power support. In some crisis situations, electrical energy is needed for field hospitals, communications, lighting or basic equipment.
 
−
 
 
−
Mini-Bee’s hybrid chain may support studies around:
 
−
 
 
−
* emergency electrical generation;
 
−
* crisis-site power support;
 
−
* mobile energy buffer using supercapacitors;
 
−
* support to temporary medical units;
 
−
* field logistics after infrastructure failure.
 
  
 
== Why Hybrid Propulsion Matters ==
 
== Why Hybrid Propulsion Matters ==
  
−
A fully electric multicopter can be attractive for short missions, but humanitarian operations often face limited charging infrastructure, uncertain logistics and longer-distance access needs.
+
<div style="background:linear-gradient(135deg,#f8fafc,#eef2ff); border:1px solid #dbeafe; border-radius:24px; padding:28px; margin:18px 0 28px 0;">
−
 
+
  <p style="font-size:18px; margin-top:0;">
−
Mini-Bee therefore studies a hybrid architecture based on:
+
    A fully electric multicopter can be attractive for short missions, but humanitarian operations often face limited charging infrastructure, uncertain logistics and longer-distance access needs.
−
 
+
  </p>
−
* a '''Rotax 916 iS''' thermal engine;
+
  <p style="margin-bottom:0;">
−
* two '''EMRAX 208''' electric machines;
+
    Mini-Bee therefore studies a hybrid architecture intended to combine the endurance and practicality of thermal energy with the controllability and redundancy of distributed electric lift.
−
* high-voltage DC power conversion;
+
  </p>
−
* supercapacitor support;
+
</div>
−
* 18 distributed electric rotors;
 
−
* electronic power controllers.
 
−
 
 
−
This approach is intended to combine the endurance and practicality of thermal energy with the controllability and redundancy of distributed electric lift.
 
  
 
== Hybrid Technical Architecture ==
 
== Hybrid Technical Architecture ==
  
−
[[File:03_architecture_technique_minibee.png|900px|center|Mini-Bee hybrid technical architecture]]
+
<div style="background:white; border:1px solid #e2e8f0; border-radius:24px; padding:20px; box-shadow:0 10px 34px rgba(15,23,42,0.08); margin:18px 0 24px 0;">
 +
  [[File:03_architecture_technique_minibee.png|1000px|center|Mini-Bee hybrid technical architecture]]
 +
</div>
  
−
The current technical reference combines a thermal engine, electric generators, rectifiers, DC bus, supercapacitors and independent rotor power controllers.
+
<div style="display:grid; grid-template-columns:repeat(7,minmax(0,1fr)); gap:8px; margin:22px 0 30px 0; text-align:center;">
−
 
+
  <div style="background:#0f172a; color:white; border-radius:16px; padding:15px 8px; font-weight:700;">Fuel</div>
−
Main subsystems:
+
  <div style="background:#1e293b; color:white; border-radius:16px; padding:15px 8px; font-weight:700;">Rotax 916 iS</div>
 +
  <div style="background:#334155; color:white; border-radius:16px; padding:15px 8px; font-weight:700;">EMRAX</div>
 +
  <div style="background:#475569; color:white; border-radius:16px; padding:15px 8px; font-weight:700;">Rectifiers</div>
 +
  <div style="background:#991b1b; color:white; border-radius:16px; padding:15px 8px; font-weight:700;">DC bus</div>
 +
  <div style="background:#b91c1c; color:white; border-radius:16px; padding:15px 8px; font-weight:700;">ESCs</div>
 +
  <div style="background:#dc2626; color:white; border-radius:16px; padding:15px 8px; font-weight:700;">18 rotors</div>
 +
</div>
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%;"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%;"
−
! Subsystem
+
! style="background:#0f172a; color:white;" | Subsystem
−
! Role
+
! style="background:#0f172a; color:white;" | Role
 
|-
 
|-
 
| Rotax 916 iS
 
| Rotax 916 iS
Line 218: Line 333:
 
| Stabilization, flight control, degraded modes and safety logic
 
| Stabilization, flight control, degraded modes and safety logic
 
|}
 
|}
 +
 +
<!-- ===================================================== -->
 +
<!-- FLIGHT CONTROL -->
 +
<!-- ===================================================== -->
  
 
== Flight Control Unit and Stabilization ==
 
== Flight Control Unit and Stabilization ==
  
−
Mini-Bee requires a dedicated Flight Control Unit because it is neither a conventional helicopter nor a battery-only multicopter.
+
<div style="display:grid; grid-template-columns:1fr 1fr; gap:22px; margin:20px 0;">
−
 
+
  <div style="background:white; border:1px solid #e2e8f0; border-radius:24px; padding:26px; box-shadow:0 10px 30px rgba(15,23,42,0.08);">
−
The FCU must manage:
+
    <h3 style="margin-top:0; color:#991b1b;">Why a dedicated FCU is needed</h3>
−
 
+
    <p>Mini-Bee is neither a conventional helicopter nor a battery-only multicopter. The FCU must manage distributed lift, hybrid power behavior, assisted control and degraded modes.</p>
−
* vertical take-off and landing;
+
    <ul>
−
* hover stabilization;
+
      <li>vertical take-off and landing;</li>
−
* pitch, roll and yaw control;
+
      <li>hover stabilization;</li>
−
* power distribution across 18 rotors;
+
      <li>pitch, roll and yaw control;</li>
−
* degraded modes after sensor or rotor failure;
+
      <li>power distribution across 18 rotors;</li>
−
* STOP mode and emergency logic;
+
      <li>STOP mode and emergency logic;</li>
−
* parachute deployment logic;
+
      <li>telemetry and flight data recording.</li>
−
* telemetry and flight data recording.
+
    </ul>
−
 
+
  </div>
−
The current prototyping approach is based on STM32 / Nucleo components and inertial/environmental sensors.
 
  
−
Key sensor families include:
+
  <div style="background:#f8fafc; border:1px solid #e2e8f0; border-radius:24px; padding:26px;">
 +
    <h3 style="margin-top:0; color:#991b1b;">Current prototyping direction</h3>
 +
    <p>The current prototyping approach is based on STM32 / Nucleo components and inertial/environmental sensors.</p>
 +
    <ul>
 +
      <li>accelerometers and gyroscopes;</li>
 +
      <li>magnetometer;</li>
 +
      <li>barometric pressure sensor;</li>
 +
      <li>GPS or positioning input;</li>
 +
      <li>power and rotor monitoring.</li>
 +
    </ul>
 +
  </div>
 +
</div>
  
−
* accelerometers and gyroscopes;
+
<!-- ===================================================== -->
−
* magnetometer;
+
<!-- COCKPIT -->
−
* barometric pressure sensor;
+
<!-- ===================================================== -->
−
* GPS or positioning input;
 
−
* power and rotor monitoring.
 
  
 
== Cockpit, HMI and Avionics ==
 
== Cockpit, HMI and Avionics ==
  
−
[[File:09_cockpit_hmi_avionics_minibee.png|900px|center|Mini-Bee cockpit and avionics concept]]
+
<div style="background:white; border:1px solid #e2e8f0; border-radius:24px; padding:20px; box-shadow:0 10px 34px rgba(15,23,42,0.08); margin:18px 0 24px 0;">
 +
  [[File:09_cockpit_hmi_avionics_minibee.png|1000px|center|Mini-Bee cockpit and avionics concept]]
 +
</div>
  
−
The cockpit concept is designed around simplified assisted flight control.
+
<div style="display:grid; grid-template-columns:1fr 1fr; gap:22px; margin:20px 0;">
 +
  <div>
 +
    <p>The cockpit concept is designed around simplified assisted flight control.</p>
 +
    <ul>
 +
      <li>one pilot on board;</li>
 +
      <li>joystick-based control;</li>
 +
      <li>sport / assisted mode logic;</li>
 +
      <li>emergency beacon;</li>
 +
      <li>Kanardia EMSIS / DAQu equipment studies;</li>
 +
      <li>clear warning and alarm logic;</li>
 +
      <li>computerized flight assistance.</li>
 +
    </ul>
 +
  </div>
 +
  <div style="background:#0f172a; color:white; border-radius:24px; padding:26px;">
 +
    <div style="font-size:13px; letter-spacing:0.1em; text-transform:uppercase; color:#93c5fd; margin-bottom:10px;">Important status</div>
 +
    <p style="margin:0; color:#cbd5e1;">The aircraft remains a demonstrator. The final cockpit configuration must be validated through HMI studies, simulation, ground tests and future certification-oriented reviews.</p>
 +
  </div>
 +
</div>
  
−
Main cockpit and avionics principles:
+
<!-- ===================================================== -->
−
 
+
<!-- LD3 DEPLOYMENT -->
−
* one pilot on board;
+
<!-- ===================================================== -->
−
* joystick-based control;
 
−
* sport / assisted mode logic;
 
−
* emergency beacon;
 
−
* Kanardia EMSIS / DAQu equipment studies;
 
−
* clear warning and alarm logic;
 
−
* computerized flight assistance.
 
−
 
 
−
The aircraft remains a demonstrator. The final cockpit configuration must be validated through human-machine interface studies, simulation, ground tests and future certification-oriented reviews.
 
  
 
== Modular Deployment with LD3 Containers ==
 
== Modular Deployment with LD3 Containers ==
  
−
[[File:08_logistique_ld3_minibee.png|900px|center|Mini-Bee LD3 modular deployment]]
+
<div style="background:white; border:1px solid #e2e8f0; border-radius:24px; padding:20px; box-shadow:0 10px 34px rgba(15,23,42,0.08); margin:18px 0 24px 0;">
 +
  [[File:08_logistique_ld3_minibee.png|1000px|center|Mini-Bee LD3 modular deployment]]
 +
</div>
  
 
A major operational goal of Mini-Bee is rapid deployment through standard air cargo logistics.
 
A major operational goal of Mini-Bee is rapid deployment through standard air cargo logistics.
−
 
−
The aircraft is studied for modular packing into LD3 containers:
 
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%;"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%;"
−
! Module
+
! style="background:#0f172a; color:white;" | Module
−
! Content
+
! style="background:#0f172a; color:white;" | Content
 
|-
 
|-
 
| LD3 – Cockpit
 
| LD3 – Cockpit
Line 283: Line 421:
 
| Rotor elements, blades and mission equipment
 
| Rotor elements, blades and mission equipment
 
|}
 
|}
−
 
−
This approach aims to reduce the logistical complexity usually associated with moving a helicopter into a crisis zone.
 
  
 
== Tarmac Assembly ==
 
== Tarmac Assembly ==
  
−
[[File:10_tarmac_assembly_minibee.png|900px|center|Mini-Bee tarmac assembly]]
+
<div style="background:white; border:1px solid #e2e8f0; border-radius:24px; padding:20px; box-shadow:0 10px 34px rgba(15,23,42,0.08); margin:18px 0 24px 0;">
−
 
+
  [[File:10_tarmac_assembly_minibee.png|1000px|center|Mini-Bee tarmac assembly]]
−
The deployment scenario is based on:
+
</div>
  
−
# air transport by civil cargo aircraft;
+
<div style="background:#f8fafc; border:1px solid #e2e8f0; border-radius:22px; padding:24px; margin:18px 0 28px 0;">
−
# unloading of LD3 modules;
+
  <ol style="margin:0;">
−
# controlled assembly on tarmac;
+
    <li>Air transport by civil cargo aircraft.</li>
−
# ground checks;
+
    <li>Unloading of LD3 modules.</li>
−
# propulsion and FCU validation;
+
    <li>Controlled assembly on tarmac.</li>
−
# mission preparation close to the intervention area.
+
    <li>Ground checks.</li>
 +
    <li>Propulsion and FCU validation.</li>
 +
    <li>Mission preparation close to the intervention area.</li>
 +
  </ol>
 +
</div>
  
−
This strategy supports humanitarian operations where saving time in deployment can directly improve mission effectiveness.
+
<!-- ===================================================== -->
 +
<!-- SAFETY AND CERTIFICATION -->
 +
<!-- ===================================================== -->
  
 
== Safety Philosophy ==
 
== Safety Philosophy ==
  
−
Mini-Bee’s safety concept is based on several complementary principles:
+
<div style="display:grid; grid-template-columns:repeat(3,minmax(0,1fr)); gap:16px; margin:20px 0;">
−
 
+
  <div style="background:white; border:1px solid #e2e8f0; border-radius:20px; padding:22px; box-shadow:0 8px 24px rgba(15,23,42,0.06);"><strong>Distributed lift</strong><br />18 rotors for redundancy studies and thrust allocation.</div>
−
* distributed lift with 18 rotors;
+
  <div style="background:white; border:1px solid #e2e8f0; border-radius:20px; padding:22px; box-shadow:0 8px 24px rgba(15,23,42,0.06);"><strong>Emergency recovery</strong><br />Ballistic parachute, emergency beacon and degraded modes.</div>
−
* flight control monitoring;
+
  <div style="background:white; border:1px solid #e2e8f0; border-radius:20px; padding:22px; box-shadow:0 8px 24px rgba(15,23,42,0.06);"><strong>Occupant protection</strong><br />Anti-crash seats and structure as central design topics.</div>
−
* degraded modes after rotor or sensor fault;
+
</div>
−
* emergency beacon;
 
−
* ballistic parachute;
 
−
* anti-crash seats and structure;
 
−
* simplified pilot workload;
 
−
* certification-oriented development path.
 
  
 
A single-engine hybrid multicopter does not follow the same safety logic as a conventional helicopter. For this reason, emergency descent, parachute recovery and rotor redundancy are central design topics.
 
A single-engine hybrid multicopter does not follow the same safety logic as a conventional helicopter. For this reason, emergency descent, parachute recovery and rotor redundancy are central design topics.
Line 318: Line 455:
 
== Certification-Oriented Development ==
 
== Certification-Oriented Development ==
  
−
[[File:11_certification_roadmap_minibee.png|900px|center|Mini-Bee certification roadmap]]
+
<div style="background:white; border:1px solid #e2e8f0; border-radius:24px; padding:20px; box-shadow:0 10px 34px rgba(15,23,42,0.08); margin:18px 0 24px 0;">
 +
  [[File:11_certification_roadmap_minibee.png|1000px|center|Mini-Bee certification roadmap]]
 +
</div>
  
 
Mini-Bee is currently a TRL4 demonstrator. It is not presented as a certified operational aircraft.
 
Mini-Bee is currently a TRL4 demonstrator. It is not presented as a certified operational aircraft.
Line 333: Line 472:
 
* requirement compliance matrices.
 
* requirement compliance matrices.
  
−
The objective is to progressively structure the project so that future design decisions remain compatible with certification expectations.
+
<!-- ===================================================== -->
 +
<!-- ORGANIZATION AND ROADMAP -->
 +
<!-- ===================================================== -->
  
 
== Collaborative Organization 2025–2026 ==
 
== Collaborative Organization 2025–2026 ==
Line 340: Line 481:
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%;"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%;"
−
! Work package
+
! style="background:#0f172a; color:white;" | Work package
−
! Main focus
+
! style="background:#0f172a; color:white;" | Main focus
−
! 2025–2026 orientation
+
! style="background:#0f172a; color:white;" | 2025–2026 orientation
 
|-
 
|-
 
| FCU – 18 rotors
 
| FCU – 18 rotors
Line 368: Line 509:
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%;"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%;"
−
! Period
+
! style="background:#0f172a; color:white;" | Period
−
! Target
+
! style="background:#0f172a; color:white;" | Target
 
|-
 
|-
 
| 2025–2026
 
| 2025–2026
Line 386: Line 527:
 
| Pre-certification work and SC-VTOL / CS-27 compliance matrix
 
| Pre-certification work and SC-VTOL / CS-27 compliance matrix
 
|}
 
|}
 +
 +
<!-- ===================================================== -->
 +
<!-- HISTORY AND ONG -->
 +
<!-- ===================================================== -->
  
 
== Project History ==
 
== Project History ==
Line 410: Line 555:
 
== Relation with RED VTOL ONG ==
 
== Relation with RED VTOL ONG ==
  
−
RED VTOL ONG gives the project a strong humanitarian orientation. The Mini-Bee aircraft concept is studied as a tool for missions where time, access and practical deployment are central.
+
<div style="background:#fff7ed; border:1px solid #fed7aa; border-radius:22px; padding:24px; margin:18px 0 24px 0;">
−
 
+
  <p style="margin-top:0;">
−
In this perspective, Mini-Bee supports the following operational logic:
+
    RED VTOL ONG gives the project a strong humanitarian orientation. The Mini-Bee aircraft concept is studied as a tool for missions where time, access and practical deployment are central.
−
 
+
  </p>
−
* reach difficult areas faster;
+
  <ul style="margin-bottom:0;">
−
* transport useful payloads or one additional person;
+
    <li>reach difficult areas faster;</li>
−
* support medical intervention;
+
    <li>transport useful payloads or one additional person;</li>
−
* reduce dependency on runway infrastructure;
+
    <li>support medical intervention;</li>
−
* remain more deployable than a conventional helicopter;
+
    <li>reduce dependency on runway infrastructure;</li>
−
* provide a practical bridge between humanitarian constraints and VTOL technology.
+
    <li>remain more deployable than a conventional helicopter;</li>
 +
    <li>provide a practical bridge between humanitarian constraints and VTOL technology.</li>
 +
  </ul>
 +
</div>
  
 
See also:
 
See also:
  
 
* [[RED VTOL ONG]]
 
* [[RED VTOL ONG]]
 +
 +
<!-- ===================================================== -->
 +
<!-- LIMITATIONS, LINKS, SUMMARY -->
 +
<!-- ===================================================== -->
  
 
== Current Limitations ==
 
== Current Limitations ==
  
−
Mini-Bee is still in demonstrator stage.
+
<div style="background:#fef2f2; border:1px solid #fecaca; border-left:6px solid #dc2626; border-radius:22px; padding:24px; margin:18px 0 24px 0;">
−
 
+
  <strong>Mini-Bee is still in demonstrator stage.</strong>
−
Current limitations include:
+
  <ul style="margin-bottom:0;">
−
 
+
    <li>no certified operational aircraft yet;</li>
−
* no certified operational aircraft yet;
+
    <li>propulsion and FCU integration still under validation;</li>
−
* propulsion and FCU integration still under validation;
+
    <li>structural design and crashworthiness studies still in progress;</li>
−
* structural design and crashworthiness studies still in progress;
+
    <li>flight envelope not finalized;</li>
−
* flight envelope not finalized;
+
    <li>certification basis and means of compliance still under construction;</li>
−
* certification basis and means of compliance still under construction;
+
    <li>mission use cases must remain demonstrator-level until validation.</li>
−
* mission use cases must remain demonstrator-level until validation.
+
  </ul>
 +
</div>
  
 
== Links ==
 
== Links ==
Line 450: Line 603:
 
== Summary ==
 
== Summary ==
  
−
Mini-Bee is a TRL4 collaborative hybrid VTOL demonstrator designed around urgent humanitarian missions.
+
<div style="background:linear-gradient(135deg,#0f172a,#1e293b); color:white; border-radius:26px; padding:30px; margin:20px 0 0 0; box-shadow:0 20px 50px rgba(15,23,42,0.24);">
−
 
+
  <p style="font-size:19px; margin-top:0; color:#e2e8f0;">
−
Its 2025 reference configuration combines:
+
    Mini-Bee is a TRL4 collaborative hybrid VTOL demonstrator designed around urgent humanitarian missions.
−
 
+
  </p>
−
* 18 distributed rotors;
+
  <div style="display:grid; grid-template-columns:repeat(4,minmax(0,1fr)); gap:12px; margin-top:20px;">
−
* Rotax 916 iS hybrid propulsion;
+
    <div style="background:rgba(255,255,255,0.08); border:1px solid rgba(255,255,255,0.12); border-radius:16px; padding:16px;">18 distributed rotors</div>
−
* EMRAX 208 electric machines;
+
    <div style="background:rgba(255,255,255,0.08); border:1px solid rgba(255,255,255,0.12); border-radius:16px; padding:16px;">Rotax 916 iS hybrid propulsion</div>
−
* supercapacitor support;
+
    <div style="background:rgba(255,255,255,0.08); border:1px solid rgba(255,255,255,0.12); border-radius:16px; padding:16px;">EMRAX 208 electric machines</div>
−
* two persons on board;
+
    <div style="background:rgba(255,255,255,0.08); border:1px solid rgba(255,255,255,0.12); border-radius:16px; padding:16px;">Supercapacitor support</div>
−
* 450 km target range;
+
    <div style="background:rgba(255,255,255,0.08); border:1px solid rgba(255,255,255,0.12); border-radius:16px; padding:16px;">Two persons on board</div>
−
* 160 km/h cruise speed;
+
    <div style="background:rgba(255,255,255,0.08); border:1px solid rgba(255,255,255,0.12); border-radius:16px; padding:16px;">450 km target range</div>
−
* LD3 modular deployment;
+
    <div style="background:rgba(255,255,255,0.08); border:1px solid rgba(255,255,255,0.12); border-radius:16px; padding:16px;">160 km/h cruise speed</div>
−
* certification-oriented development.
+
    <div style="background:rgba(255,255,255,0.08); border:1px solid rgba(255,255,255,0.12); border-radius:16px; padding:16px;">LD3 modular deployment</div>
 +
  </div>
 +
  <p style="margin-bottom:0; margin-top:20px; color:#cbd5e1;">
 +
    The project continues toward an integrated ground demonstrator, tethered flight testing, free-flight demonstration and progressive pre-certification work.
 +
  </p>
 +
</div>
  
−
The project continues toward an integrated ground demonstrator, tethered flight testing, free-flight demonstration and progressive pre-certification work.
+
</div>

Revision as of 10:19, 30 April 2026




     TRL4 demonstrator · Hybrid VTOL · Humanitarian aviation

Mini-Bee Hybrid VTOL

A collaborative hybrid VTOL multicopter concept designed for urgent humanitarian missions, light air ambulance operations, emergency logistics and rapid field deployment without runway dependency.

Mini-Bee Hybrid VTOL – humanitarian mission concept
18
distributed rotors
450 km
target range
160 km/h
cruise speed
700 kg
MTOW target


Mini-Bee is a collaborative hybrid VTOL multicopter project coordinated by Technoplane SAS under the Lesser Open Bee License 1.3.

The current reference configuration is the Mini-Bee P2H18: a two-seat hybrid VTOL multicopter using 18 distributed rotors, a Rotax 916 iS thermal engine, twin EMRAX 208 high-voltage electric machines, supercapacitor support and computerized flight control.

Current maturity level: TRL4 – demonstrator stage.


Project Vision

Mini-Bee is not only a VTOL technology demonstrator. It is designed around a mission need: reaching people and equipment in difficult environments where conventional ground access is slow, damaged or unavailable.

Medical response

Rapid access for a pilot, doctor, operator or stabilized passenger in areas where ground routes are disrupted.

Field deployment

A modular logistics concept based on LD3 air cargo containers and controlled assembly near the mission area.

Lower complexity

A practical VTOL demonstrator intended to reduce deployment complexity compared with conventional helicopter logistics.

The project follows an open-innovation approach where academics, industrial partners, independent contributors and humanitarian stakeholders can contribute to the development of a practical VTOL platform.


Reference Configuration – Mini-Bee P2H18

Mini-Bee P2H18 reference configuration
Parameter Current reference value
Aircraft type Hybrid VTOL multicopter
Configuration P2H18 – 2 persons on board, 18 rotors
Capacity 1 pilot + 1 passenger or medical operator
Propulsion Rotax 916 iS + 2 × EMRAX 208 HV CC
Lift system 18 distributed vertical-lift rotors
Cruise speed 160 km/h target
Target range 450 km
Cruise power 100 kW target
MTOW 700 kg target
Safety approach Rotor redundancy, ballistic parachute, emergency beacon, computerized flight control
Deployment Modular packing into LD3 containers
Maturity TRL4 – demonstrator stage


Visual Overview

The following visual library is prepared for the official Mini-Bee image set. The aircraft configuration must remain unchanged: white Mini-Bee fuselage, homogeneous hexagonal upper rotor structure, symmetrical metallic tubular arms, triangulated structure connected to the central hub, and exactly 18 rotors with 18 visible propellers.

  • Hero view – humanitarian VTOL concept

  • Reference product view – P2H18

  • Hybrid technical architecture

  • Light air ambulance mission

  • Disaster relief mission

  • Remote access mission

  • Emergency energy support

  • LD3 modular deployment

  • Cockpit, HMI and avionics

  • Tarmac assembly


Mission Logic First

The Mini-Bee project follows a mission-first design logic. The aim is not to reproduce an air taxi concept, but to study a practical aircraft for humanitarian and emergency operations.

The aircraft is intended for situations where:

  • roads are damaged, slow or unavailable;
  • a conventional helicopter is too costly or difficult to deploy;
  • a runway is not available;
  • rapid access is more important than high cruise speed;
  • one pilot and one passenger/operator are sufficient;
  • compact logistics and field assembly are essential.
Mission design principle
Reach the mission area first.

Mini-Bee prioritizes practical access, deployability and emergency usefulness over luxury mobility or high-speed transport.


Core Humanitarian Missions

Mini-Bee light air ambulance mission

Light Air Ambulance

Mini-Bee is primarily studied as a light air ambulance and medical response platform.

  • transport of a doctor or medical operator;
  • access to isolated clinics or mountain areas;
  • evacuation of a stabilized patient;
  • delivery of medical supplies to remote sites.
Mini-Bee disaster relief mission

Disaster Relief

In disaster zones, the first operational difficulty is often access.

  • rapid reconnaissance;
  • delivery of urgent supplies;
  • transport of a field operator;
  • support after road or bridge damage.
Mini-Bee remote access mission

Remote Access

Remote areas require aircraft that can operate without a runway.

  • isolated medical sites;
  • mountain rescue support;
  • island-to-island emergency transport;
  • temporary field operations.
Mini-Bee emergency energy support mission

Emergency Energy Support

The hybrid architecture is also studied for emergency power support.

  • emergency electrical generation;
  • crisis-site power support;
  • mobile energy buffer using supercapacitors;
  • support to temporary medical units.


Why Hybrid Propulsion Matters

A fully electric multicopter can be attractive for short missions, but humanitarian operations often face limited charging infrastructure, uncertain logistics and longer-distance access needs.

Mini-Bee therefore studies a hybrid architecture intended to combine the endurance and practicality of thermal energy with the controllability and redundancy of distributed electric lift.

Hybrid Technical Architecture

Mini-Bee hybrid technical architecture
Fuel
Rotax 916 iS
EMRAX
Rectifiers
DC bus
ESCs
18 rotors
Subsystem Role
Rotax 916 iS Thermal power source for hybrid generation
EMRAX 208 HV CC Electric machines used in the hybrid power chain
Rectifiers Conversion toward high-voltage DC distribution
Supercapacitors Buffer for transient power demands and emergency support
ESC / power controllers Individual rotor control and thrust distribution
18 rotors Distributed vertical lift and redundancy studies
FCU Stabilization, flight control, degraded modes and safety logic


Flight Control Unit and Stabilization

Why a dedicated FCU is needed

Mini-Bee is neither a conventional helicopter nor a battery-only multicopter. The FCU must manage distributed lift, hybrid power behavior, assisted control and degraded modes.

  • vertical take-off and landing;
  • hover stabilization;
  • pitch, roll and yaw control;
  • power distribution across 18 rotors;
  • STOP mode and emergency logic;
  • telemetry and flight data recording.

Current prototyping direction

The current prototyping approach is based on STM32 / Nucleo components and inertial/environmental sensors.

  • accelerometers and gyroscopes;
  • magnetometer;
  • barometric pressure sensor;
  • GPS or positioning input;
  • power and rotor monitoring.


Cockpit, HMI and Avionics

Mini-Bee cockpit and avionics concept

The cockpit concept is designed around simplified assisted flight control.

  • one pilot on board;
  • joystick-based control;
  • sport / assisted mode logic;
  • emergency beacon;
  • Kanardia EMSIS / DAQu equipment studies;
  • clear warning and alarm logic;
  • computerized flight assistance.
Important status

The aircraft remains a demonstrator. The final cockpit configuration must be validated through HMI studies, simulation, ground tests and future certification-oriented reviews.


Modular Deployment with LD3 Containers

Mini-Bee LD3 modular deployment

A major operational goal of Mini-Bee is rapid deployment through standard air cargo logistics.

Module Content
LD3 – Cockpit Main cabin, seats, avionics and central structure
LD3 – Tubes Tubular frame, structural arms and assembly elements
LD3 – Blades / Rotors Rotor elements, blades and mission equipment

Tarmac Assembly

Mini-Bee tarmac assembly
  1. Air transport by civil cargo aircraft.
  2. Unloading of LD3 modules.
  3. Controlled assembly on tarmac.
  4. Ground checks.
  5. Propulsion and FCU validation.
  6. Mission preparation close to the intervention area.


Safety Philosophy

Distributed lift
18 rotors for redundancy studies and thrust allocation.
Emergency recovery
Ballistic parachute, emergency beacon and degraded modes.
Occupant protection
Anti-crash seats and structure as central design topics.

A single-engine hybrid multicopter does not follow the same safety logic as a conventional helicopter. For this reason, emergency descent, parachute recovery and rotor redundancy are central design topics.

Certification-Oriented Development

Mini-Bee certification roadmap

Mini-Bee is currently a TRL4 demonstrator. It is not presented as a certified operational aircraft.

The development approach anticipates certification logic by considering:

  • CS-27 small rotorcraft logic;
  • SC-VTOL capable aircraft considerations;
  • hybrid propulsion compliance topics;
  • electric and hybrid propulsion system references;
  • EWIS and high-voltage power distribution;
  • crashworthiness;
  • flight control software and verification;
  • requirement compliance matrices.


Collaborative Organization 2025–2026

The Mini-Bee project is collaborative by design. Academic and industrial partners contribute to specific work packages.

Work package Main focus 2025–2026 orientation
FCU – 18 rotors Stabilization, rotor allocation, STOP mode, degraded modes ESTACA Saint-Quentin studies and STM-based prototyping
Hybrid power chain Rotax / EMRAX / rectifier / supercapacitor modeling and tests Centrale Lille studies and hybrid generation test bench
Structure and crashworthiness Tubular structure, rotor support, crash resistance ESTACA Bordeaux and Lycée Louis Armand studies
Avionics and HMI Displays, joystick, warning logic, Kanardia integration ESTACA SQY and Centrale Lille coordination
Certification framework SC-VTOL, CS-27, compliance matrix, test logic Progressive structuring toward pre-certification

Roadmap

Period Target
2025–2026 Detailed design, FCU 18-rotor development, Rotax + Kanardia ground tests, hybrid generation tests
2026 Integrated ground demonstrator with propulsion, FCU and sensors
2027 Tethered flight prototype target
2028 First free-flight demonstrator target
2029 Pre-certification work and SC-VTOL / CS-27 compliance matrix


Project History

The Mini-Bee project was launched in 2015 to study lightweight personal air transportation and progressively shifted toward medical and humanitarian use cases.

Past project stages include:

Earlier presentations and public project milestones:

The 2025 reference configuration updates the project around the P2H18 architecture with 18 distributed rotors, Rotax 916 iS hybrid power, two persons on board and LD3 deployment logic.

Relation with RED VTOL ONG

RED VTOL ONG gives the project a strong humanitarian orientation. The Mini-Bee aircraft concept is studied as a tool for missions where time, access and practical deployment are central.

  • reach difficult areas faster;
  • transport useful payloads or one additional person;
  • support medical intervention;
  • reduce dependency on runway infrastructure;
  • remain more deployable than a conventional helicopter;
  • provide a practical bridge between humanitarian constraints and VTOL technology.

See also:


Current Limitations

 Mini-Bee is still in demonstrator stage.
  • no certified operational aircraft yet;
  • propulsion and FCU integration still under validation;
  • structural design and crashworthiness studies still in progress;
  • flight envelope not finalized;
  • certification basis and means of compliance still under construction;
  • mission use cases must remain demonstrator-level until validation.

Links

Summary

Mini-Bee is a TRL4 collaborative hybrid VTOL demonstrator designed around urgent humanitarian missions.

18 distributed rotors
Rotax 916 iS hybrid propulsion
EMRAX 208 electric machines
Supercapacitor support
Two persons on board
450 km target range
160 km/h cruise speed
LD3 modular deployment

The project continues toward an integrated ground demonstrator, tethered flight testing, free-flight demonstration and progressive pre-certification work.

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