003134, US 2019) M0 cu») United States 2) Patent Application Publication co) Pub. No.: US 2019/0100313 A1 Campbell (4s) Pub. Dat ‘Apr. 4, 2019 (4) TILTROTOR AIRCRAFT HAVING. INTERCHANGEABLE PAYLOAD MODULES 64D 1/2 (201301); BEC 29/0033 (01301) (71) Applicant: Bell Helicopter Textron Ine. Fort ca eee Worth, TX (US) A tilolor aircraft has a vertical takeoff and landing flight 12) venir Kip Gregory Campbll For Wonk, oe and forward Tight mode The sera ine an om Kip Gregory Camp Sinton having ving with opostly dpsed ine ts Tip booms respectively enend ongaly for the wg tg, Forword os are cooled othe arden ofthe {penn anda rs anced othe at es ip Some The frward to te revel ae Between Neral itorgmation, wherein he rwanda are above (73) Assignee: Bell Helicopter Textron Ine. Fort Worth, TX (US) 21) Appl. Now 187724,669 the tip booms, and a forward thrast orientation, wherein the forward rotors are forward of the tip booms. The aft rotors (22) Filed: Oct. 4, 2017 are reversibly table between a vertical lift orientation, ‘wherein the all rotors are below the tip booms, anda forward thrist orientation, wherein the aft mtars are aft of the ip booms. One of a phimlity of payload modules is inter GI) Ince, changeable coupled to the sir ame, wherein each payload BoD 102 (2006.01) rmodlile has a respective function, Publication ClassiieationPatent Application Publication Apr. 4, 2019 Sheet 1 of 13 US 2019/0100313 AlPatent Application Publication Apr. 4, 2019 Sheet 2 of 13 US 2019/0100313 Al Fig.1CPatent Application Publication Apr. 4, 2019 Sheet 3 of 13 US 2019/0100313 Al ~ 28a] abe |-—28 2 Fig.1F 2a 18a Fig.1EPatent Application Publication Apr. 4, 2019 Sheet 4 of 13 US 2019/0100313 Al 10 asv—_|\ 266 ia 24 226 ji s = ab [ois ote eee uw 12 18a |~—l4a 20a [| 28 / }—14e _ vr { 26a wa Fig.1H aba \el26e \ aaa. Je Fig.1GPatent Application Publication Apr. 4, 2019 Sheet 5 of 13 US 2019/0100313 Al 26 Propulsion Assembly a8 24 Rotor Airframe 4g aot on Rotor Hub quid Fuel Source fo l=» |i son Tnternal { Combustion Engine 32 | Electic Motor Biectic T [| Generator 1 30 Battery « - 42 Fight contol Contraters _System ‘a ——s sensors ++I 46 ‘Communications Fig.2Patent Application Publication Apr. 4, 2019 Sheet 6 of 13 US 2019/0100313 Al 2a 4 160 Fig.3CPatent Application Publication Apr. 4, 2019 Sheet 7 of 13 US 2019/0100313 Al \ |r Fig.3FPatent Application Publication Apr. 4, 2019 Sheet 8 of 13 US 2019/0100313 Al * 280 Fig.3IPatent Application Publication Apr. 4, 2019 Sheet 9 of 13 US 2019/0100313 Al 28e 4 16aPatent Application Publication Apr. 4, 2019 Sheet 10 of 13 US 2019/0100313 Al . 100 ‘Autonomous System j 114 toa] Pilot System Sensors 136 Cockpit Flight Control face 132-4] Syste Display System | ap ‘Command Monitoring sot _ Module Module 134-4] Pilot input tons Controllers 118 Remote System Forward Propulsion 106— 130 Assembly Flight Data 126-4~| Display 120 Forward Propulsion Assembly Remote 128-4] “Input 122 ‘Aft Propulsion Assembly 124 ‘Aft Propulsion | Assembly aH Fig.4Patent Application Publication Apr. 4, 2019 Sheet 11 of 13 Receive Request for ‘Transportation Services [ 200 Upload Fight Plan oe Select Airframe from Airframe Fleet | ~202 Dispatch Airframe to Payload 210 wre i Generate FightPlan Faq Couple Airrame to Payload 212 —____, ‘Send Fight Plan to Selected Airframe [206 Vertically Lift Payload into the Air 214 Fig.5A Transition to Forward Flight Mode 216 Transport Payload to Destination 218 ‘Transison to VTOL Mode ao Land Airframe at Destination Release Payload at Destination Return Airframe to Fleet Location 226 Fig.5B US 2019/0100313 AIPatent Application Publication Apr. 4, 2019 Sheet 13 of 13 US 2019/0100313 Al 328 338 332 7 336, Fig8D Fig.8E_—-Fig.8F_~—_—Fig.8GUS 2019/0100313 Al ‘TILTROTOR AIRCRAFT HAVING INTERCHANGEABLE PAYLOAD MODULES TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE 10001] The present disclosure relates, in general, (© air ‘raft having a forward ight mode and a verical takeoff and Tanding fight mode and, in parieular, ta titrotor aircraft having upwardly fltable forward rotors and downwardly Ultable aft rotors for transporting interchangeable payload modules. BACKGROUND 10002] | Fixed-wing aireraf, such os airplanes, are capable of fight using wings that generate lift responsive t0 the forward airspeed of the airera, which is generated by forwaed thrust from one or more jet engines oF propellers The wings have an airfoil cross section that deflects ie downward asthe aircraft moves forward, generating vertical TiN wo support the aigplane in Aight, Fined-wing aireral, however, rire « minway for takeof? and landing. [0003] Unlike fixed-wing aircra, vertical takeof and Janding (VTOL) aireaft do not require runways. Instead, VTOL aircraft are capable of taking off, hovering and landing vertically. One example of VIOL aircraft is a helicopter, which is rowreralt having one or more rotors that provide vertical it and forward thrust to the aireraf. Helicopter rotors not only enable hovering, vertical takeof? ‘and verical landing, hut also enable, forward, award and lateral ght, These attributes make helicopters highly ver- satile for use in congested, isolated or remote areas where fixed-wing aircraft may be tunable to taken? and land. Helicopters, however, typically ack the forward airspeed of fixed-wing airera. 10004} A tiltotor is another example of a VTOL irra. Tiltrotor aircraft wilzetlable rotor systems that are oper able to transition between a forward thrust orientation and & vertical lift orientation. The rotor systems are tltable relative tothe fixed wing sueh thatthe associated proprotors have & enerlly horizontal plane of rotation for vertical takeofl hovering and vertical landing and a generally vertical plane ‘of rotation for forward Might, wherein the fixed wing pro= vides lift. In this manner, Slrotor sieraft combine the vertical lift capability of « helicopter with the speed and range of fixed-wing airraf SUMMARY, 10005] Ina fist aspect, the presen disclosure is directed to an aircraft having Vertical takeol and landing fight mode ‘and a forward fight mode. The arent has an sis ame inching wing having fist and second oppositely disposed Wing tips. First and second tip booms respectively extend Jongitadinally frm the first and second wing tips. Fach of the tip booms has forward and af ends. Fist and second onward rotors are respectively couple to the forward ends ‘ofthe first and seeond tip booms. The first and second onward rotors are reversibly tiltable between a vertical it ‘orientation, wherein the frst and second forward rotors are above the respective first and second sip booms, and @ forward thrust orientation, wherein the frst and second forward rotors are forward of the respective first and second tip booms, First and second aft rotors are respectively ‘coupled o the aft ends of the frst and sccond tip booms. The first and second af rotors are reversibly tltable between @ Apr. 4, 2019 vertical lit orientation, wherein the fist and second aft rors are below the respective frst and second tip booms, ‘and forward thrust orientation, whereia te ist ad second fall rotor are all of te respective first and second tip booms. One of a pluraity of payload modules is interchangeably coupled to the airframe, wherein eveh payload module has a respective funetion, [0006] In certin embodiments, a fight control system may be operably associated with the forward rotors and the aft rotors and operable to independently control each of the rotors including transitions between the vertical lift and the ‘onward thrust orientations. In such embodiments, the ight contro system may command operation of the rotors responsive to onboard pilot ight conirol, remote Hight control, autonomous flight contol or any combination thereo. In some embodiments, the payload module may be manned module. In other embodiments, the payload mod- ‘ule may be an unmanned module. In certain embodiments, the payload module may be operable be jettisoned during Tight. Ia some embodiments, the payload module may be @ fuel module, a cargo module, a weapons module, a com ‘munications module andlor a sensor module. [0007] In certain embodiments, the forward rotors may be counter rotated and the ft rotors may be counter rotated 10 ‘control yaw in the Vertical fakeotT and landing Hight mode In some embodiments, the forward and aft rotors othe first ‘ip boom may be counter roated and the forward and aft rmtors of the second tip boom may be counter rotated t0 ‘control yaw in the Vertical takeoff and landing Might mode Incertin embodiments first and socond til assemblies may be respectively coupled to the al ends of the fist and second tip booms such thatthe fist and sccond tail assemblies ‘operate in an upivash ia the Forward Might mode. In som embodiments, a power systom may include at least one electric motor operably associated with eaeh of the rotors land an electric energy souree. In certain embodiments, the Torward rotors may have folding rotor blades operable to redice drag inthe forward fight mode and the sft rotors may hae fixed pitch rotor blades [0008] In a second aspect, the present disclosure is directed to an aireraft having a verical takeoff and landing fight mode anda forward fight mode, The aireraft includes ‘longitudinally extending fisclage. A wing extends laterally from the fuselage and has first and second oppositely isposed wing tips distal from the fuselage. Fach ofthe ip booms has forward aa alt ends, First and second forward rors are respectively coupled to the forward ends of the first and second tip booms. The fist and second forward rotors are reversibly tilable between a vertical lift orienta- ‘ion, wherein the fist and second Forwaed rotors are above the respective fist and second tip booms, aad a forward thrust orientation, wherein the first and second forward rotors are forward of the respective first and second tip Doms, First and second aft rotors are respectively coupled tothe aft ends ofthe fist and second tip booms. The frst and second aft rotors are reversibly titable between a vertical it ‘orientation, wherein the first and second aft rotors are below the respective fist and second tip booms, and a forward thrust orientation, wherein the frst and second aft rotors are Aft ofthe respective first and second tip booms. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0009] For a more complete understanding of the features and advantages of the present disclosure, reference is nowUS 2019/0100313 Al made to the detailed description along with the aeeompa- fying figures in which corresponding numerals in the dil- erent figures refer to corresponding pars and in which: [0010] FIGS. 1A-1H are schematic illustrations of a tik leotoraireraR having upwardly titable forward rotors and downwardly tiltable aft rotors for transporting interchange able payload modules in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure; [0011] FIG. 2s block diagram ofa propulsion and control system fora tiltotor itera having upwardly titabe for- ‘ward rotors and downwardly tltable aft rotors for transporte ing interchangeable payload modules in aecordance with ‘embodiments of the present disclosure [0012] | FIGS. 34.31 are schematic illustrations ofa tltro- tor aircraft having upwardly titable forward rotors and downwardly tiltable aft rotors for transporting iterchange= able payload modules in # sequential fight operating see- nario in accordance with embostiments of the present dis- closure 10013] FIG. 4 isa block diagram ofa control system for a tilleotor aircraft having upwsally tiltable forward rotors and downwardly tiltable aft rotors for teansporting inter- ‘changeable payload modules in accordance with embodi- mens of the prevent diselosure: [0014] FIGS. 5A-5B are block diagrams of a transporta- tion process for interchangeable payload modules wsing & tikrotorarerat having upwardly title forward rotors and downwardly titable aft rotors in accordance with embodi- ments of the present disclosure; [0015] FIG. 6 is a schematic illustation of a tiltrotor sireraN having upwardly tltable forward rotors sad downs wardly table at rotors during a payload module jettison ‘operation in accordance with embodiments of the present sdsclosure: 10016] FIG. 7 is a schematic illustration of interchange- able payload modales having a plurality of ays for use with a tilleotoe aircraft having upwaly tiltable forward rotors ‘and downwardly tluble aft rotors in accordance with ‘embodiments of the present disclosure; and [0017] FIGS, 8A-8G are isometric views of various pay- Joad packages having different fanetions for use with inter ‘changeable payload modules of a tiltrotor aircraft having ‘upwardly tiltable forward motors and downwardly ttle aft ‘gecondance with embodiments ofthe present dis- DETAILED DESCRIPTION 018) ‘ments ofthe present disclosure are it should be appreciated thatthe present disclosure provides ‘many applicable inventive concepts, which can be embodied in a wide variety of specific contexts. The specific embodi- ments discussed herein are merely illustrative and donot ‘dlimit the scope of the present disclosure. Inthe interest of While the making and using of various embodi- cused in det below, ‘laity, not all features ofa actual implementation may be described in the present disclosure. It will of course be appreciated that in the development of any suet actual ‘embodiment, numerous implementation-specitic decisions must be made to achieve the developers specific goals, such 8 compliance with system-related and business-related con- strains, which will vary from one implementation t0 another. Moreover, it will be appreciated that such a devel- ‘opment effort might be complex and time-consuming but Apr. 4, 2019 ‘would bea routine undertaking for those of ordinary skill the art ving the benelt of this disclosure {0019} In the specification, reference may be made w the spatial relationships between Various components and othe Sutil orientation of various aspects of components a8 the devices are depicted in the tached drawings. However, as willbe recognized by thos siled a the at aflera complete reading of the present dislosue, the devices, members, ppartoss, andthe ike describe herein may be positioned in any desied! orientation. Thus, the use of terms such 28 “above,” “below.” “upper” “lower” of other like terns t0 describe a spatial relationship between various components fr to describe the spatial orientation of aspects sch components should be understood to describe a relative relationship been the components o a spatial orientation oF aspets of such components, espetively, asthe deviee eseribe herein may be oriented i any desired dasction ‘As used herein, the tem “coupled” may include direct or indirect coupling by any means, including moving andor o-moving mechanieal connection {0020} Referring to FIGS. 14-1H inthe drawings, various Views of a titevor srerat 10 havia upwardly table onward rotor and downwardly titble aft rotors are depicted. Inthe ilustaed embodiment, iceat 10 i ca ‘ing one of phraity of longtadially extoning payload ‘modules 12 that may be interchangeably coupled to and transported by aircraft 10, In other embodiments, payload module 12 muy representa fuselage hat is a permanes cmponent of sia 10. In ether ease payload modal nay be a manne module, an uamstided mode, fuel ‘module cao module, a weupons module, a commusica- tions module, a sensor module or the like and combinations thoreo Aircraft 10 inciodes a wing 14 that extends laterally relative t payload module. 12. Wing 14 has an airfoil Cross-tction that generates Kft responsive 1 the forward srspeed of aieraft 10. In the ilostated embodiment, wit 1M clades flaperons 1a, 144 that provide aerodynamic surlaces for eontolling, for example, pith and rll of srcralt 10 dering forward fight. Wing 14 also inclides ‘oppositely disposed wing tips 1c, 14d ha are distal from pabloud modale 12. Wing 14 is preferably formes from high Strength and lightweight materials such as metals polymers, Tera, carbon and combinations thre. {0021} Aierft 10 includes a pie of tip booms 160, 16 that respectively extend longitudinally from wing tps 14, 14 Tsp boom 16 includes forward end 18e and an aft en 20«. Tip boom 16b includes a forward end 18 and an tend 20. Tip booms 164, 16a preferably forme fos high strength and ighewsight materials such as metals, polymers, berlas, carbon and combinations threo Alt End 204 of tp boom 16a supports tail assombly 22a tht provides horizontal andlor vercal siabilzation ond. may Include smidéer andor an elevator to aid in pitch snd ye conto dring forward fight of arr 10. Lewis, af end 20% of ti Boom 166 supports a til assembly 225 tat provides horizontal andlor vertical stabilization and may Include «rudder andoe an elevator to aid in pitch and yaw contol during forward fight of strat. Wing 14 and ip booms 162, 166 preferably include internal passageways eperable to contain communication lines suchas electieal bles, data cables and the like. Together wing Mand ip booms 16a, 166 08 well as varius frames, supports, lone gevns, stingers, bukeods, spars ribs, skins and the ike nay be comsidered to be the sirtame 24 of sical 10.US 2019/0100313 Al 10022] Aireaft 10 is operable t tansition between Vertical lit orientation, as best seen in FIGS. 1A, 1C, 1E, 1G, and a forward thrist orientation, as best seen in FIGS, 1B, 1D, 1F, 1H. In the illustrated embodiment, a distributed propulsion system is coupled to airframe 24. The distributed propulsion system includes a plurality of propulsion assem biies 26 that may be permanently mounted or independently attachable to and detachable from airframe 24. As illus- ‘tated, the diibuted propulsion system includes four inde- pendently operating propulsion assemblies 260, 26, 26°, 26d, Propulsion assemblies 264, 265 are respectively ‘coupled to forward ends 18a, IN of tip booms 16a, 16h and may be referred to as forvanl propulsion assemblies 260, 26), Propulsion assemblies 26, 26d are respectively ‘coupled t afl ends 20a, 206 of tip booms 164, 166 and may be referred to 28 aft propulsion asvemblies 26, 26d, For ‘ward propulsion assembly 26a is reversibly table beeen 8 vertical lift orientation, wherein rotor 282 is above tip boom 160, and forward thrust orientation, wherein rotor 2a is forward of tip boom 16a. Similarly, forward prope ‘sion assembly 26b is reversibly titable between a Vertical Ji orientation, wherein rotor 28b is above tip boom 16, and 2 forward thrust orientation, wherein rotor 28) is forward of tip boom 16b. Af propulsion assembly 26 is reversibly titable between a vertical lit orientation, wherein rotor 28e js helow tip boom 16a, and a forwant thrust orientation, ‘wherein rotor 28¢ is af of tip boom 16a, Similarly, aft propulsion assembly 26d is reversibly tiluble between Verical lift orientation, wherein rotor 28d is below tip boom 165, and forward thrust orientation, wherein rotor 281 is alt of tip boom 16. In the illusteated embodiment, when propulsion assemblies 26a, 266, 26c, 26d are inthe forward thrust orientation, rotors 28a, 28b operate as tractor propel- Jers and rotors 286, 284d operates as pusher propellers 10023] As discussed herein, each propulsion assembly 26a, 266, 26c. 26d is independently controllable suc that ‘operational changes of certain propulsion assemblies 262, 26). 26, 26d within the distribited. propulsion system ‘enable pitch, yaw and roll control of aircraft 10 during \VIOL operations. For example, by changing the thrust ‘output of fortard propulsion assemblies 260,266 relative ro ‘all propulsion semblies 260, 26d. pitch contr is ‘achieved. As another example, by changing the thrust output ‘of propulsion assemblies 26, 26¢ relative to propulsion, assemblies 268, 26d, roll contol is achieved. Changing the thnst output ofa particular propulsion assembly 262, 26 26, 26d may be accomplished by changing the rotational speed andlor blade pitch of the respective otors 28a, 28, 2Be, 28d. tis noted that some or all of propulsion assem= blies 26a, 266, 26, 26d may incorporate fixed piteh rovers. Altematively, some orall of propulsion assembles 262,26), 26, 26d may incorporate rotors operable for collective andlor eyelic pitch contol. In one implementation, forward propulsion assemblies 26a, 266 have collective pitch control and aft propulsion assemblies 26c, 26d have fixed pitch rotors. Yaw control or torque balance of sireraft 10 during VIOL operations may be achieved by counter rotating Joewaed propulsion assemblies 260, 260 and counter rotating alt propulsion assemblies 26c, 26d. Alternatively or addi- tionally, yaw control or torque balance of aireraft 10 during VTOL operations may be achieved by counter rotating propulsion assemblies 26, 26 of tip hoom 16a and counter Fotating propulsion assemblies 26. 26d of tip boom 16). Torque imbalances of aircraft 10 may also be conieolledl by Apr. 4, 2019 utilizing differential longitudinal thrust vectoring oF one oF mor of the propulsion assemblies 260,26, 26c, 26d andlor utilizing torque ollset of one or more of the propulsion assemblies 26a, 266, 26, 26d. Its noted that, changes in rotor speed and/or changes in blade piteht may affect the ‘orque balance of sicraft 10, thus implemeatation of dif ferent torque balancing techniques under different condi- tions may be desirable [0024] Propulsion assemblies 262, 26D, 260, 26d may preferably he standardized and interchangeable units that are ‘most preferably line replaceable units enabling easy instal- Jation and removal from airraft 10, In addition, the use of Jine replaceable units is beneficial in maintenance situations i'a fault is discovered with one of the propulsion assem: bes. In this ease, the faulty propulsion assembly ean be decoupled from aircraft 10 by simple operations such as ‘unbolting striciral members, disconnecting communica: tion Hines and other suitable procedures. Another propulsion assembly can then be attached to aircraft 10-by coupling communication fines, bolting structural members together fad other suitable procedures [0025] As hest seen in FIG. 2, each propulsion assembly 2b includes a nacelle 38 that houses one or more hatterics 3 fan electric motor 32, a drive system 34, a rotor hub 36 and fan electronics node 40 including, for example. controllers 42, sensors 44 and communications elements 46 as well as ‘ther components suitable for use in the operation of @ propulsion assembly: Each propulsion assembly 26 also Jncludes a rotor 28 having a plurality of rotor blades that are soctrably attached to rotor hub ¥6, The rotar blades may he a fixed pitch or may be operable for pitch changes including, foF example, collective andlor cyclic pitch changes. In addition, each propulsion assembly 26 may be ‘operable for independent thrust veetoring. [0026] In the illustrated embodiment, aircraft 10 has an clectrical energy source depicted as a liguid fel based cleetrcal energy generation system 48 that is housed within airlrame 24 such as within wing 14 andor tip booms 16a, 166 or may be housed within payload module 12 in both interchangeable and fixed implementations of payload mod- tule 12. Flectrical energy generation system 48 preferably Jnclides one oF more intemal combustion engines 80, Flec- ‘eical energy generation system 48 also includes one or more fuel tanks depicted at liquid fel sources 52, ln operation internal combustion engine $0 is used to drive an electic szenemitor $4 to produce electrical energy. This cletrical energy is feed fo each propulsion assemblies 26 via com- ‘munication Hines 56 within sirtrame 24 10 directly power lectric motors 32 andlor for storage within batteries 30. ‘This type of hybrid power system is beneficial as the enemy density of liquid fvel excoeds that of batteries enabling. areater endurance for sirerat 10. [0027] Akematively or additionally, airframe 24 andor payload module 12 may house one or more batteries 88 that ‘may serve as the electrical energy’ source for propulsion assemblies 26, Batteries $8 may be charged by electrical energy generation system 48 andor may be charged at 2 ‘around stato, Batteries 58 may also be interchangeably removed and installed to enable efficient refucling which ‘may be particulary beneficial in embodiments of aircraft 10 ‘wherein the sole electrical energy source are batteries 88. In fone example, each interchangeable payload module may ‘contain batteries 8 such that aircraft 10 is fully recharged each time a new payload module 12 is coupled thereto. InUS 2019/0100313 Al ‘embodiments having both batteries $8 and electrical energy teneration system 48, bateres $8 may provide a backup ‘leczical power source to enable aireraft 10 to safely land in the event of a flue in cletrical energy generation system 48, As another allerative, propulsion wssemblies 26 may inchide hyelraulie motors operated within « common hyrt- Tie fui system wherein one or more high pressure hydraulic sources or generators are housed within airframe 24 andor payload module 12 to provide power to each ofthe hydraulic motors. 10028] In the illustrated embodiment, aircraft 10 has 2 flight control system 60 that is preferably housed within sirlmame 24. Plight contol system 60, such a a dita ight ‘control system, is preferably @ redundant fight contol system and more preferably a triply redundant flight contol system ineling three independent flight controt computers. Use of tply redundant fight contol system 60 improves the overall safety and reliability of sieraft 10 in the event of «a flure in ight contol system 60. Flight coatrol system 60 preferably includes non-ransitory computer readable stor- ‘age media incliding a sel of computer instructions execu able hy one or more processors for controlling the aperstion ‘of the distributed propulsion system. Flight contol system 660 may be implemented on one of more general-purpose ‘computers, special purpose computers or other machines with memory and processing capability. For example, fight ‘contol system 60 may include one or more memory storage modules including, but is not limited to, internal storage memory such as random access memory, non-volatile memory suchas read only memory. removable memory such fs magnetic slorage memory, optical storage, solid-state storage memory or other suitable memory storage entity. Flight control system 60 may he a microprocessor-based system operble to exeeute program code in the form of machine-exeeutable instactions. In adition, fight contol system 60 may be selectively connectable o other computer systems via a proprietary encrypted network, @ public ‘encrypted network, the Internet or other suitable communi ‘cation network that may include both wired and wireless ‘conneetions 10029] Flight contol system 60 communicates via a wired andlor wireless communications network 62 with electron= jes node 40 of each propulsion assembly 26. Flight contol system 60 receives sensor data from and sends Tight com- mand information to electronics nodes 40. such that each propulsion assembly 26 may be individually and indepen- dently controlled snd opersted. In both manned and ‘unmanned missions, Hight control system 60 may autono- ‘ously control some or all aspects of Fight operation for sireraft 10, Flight contol system 60 may also be operable to ‘communicate with one or more remote systems, via a Wireless communications protocol. The remote systems may be operable to receive flight data from and provide com- mands to flight control system 60 to enable remote fight ‘control over some of all axpeets of light operation for ‘ireraft 10, in both manned and unmanned missions. Ta manned missions, a pilot within aircraft 10 may receive flight data from and provide commands to flight control system 60 fo enable onboard pilot contal over some or all aspects of flight operation for aircraft 10. In particular transitions of aircraft 10 between the vertical lift orientation ‘and the forward thrust orientation may be accomplished Apr. 4, 2019 responsive to onboard pilot fight contol, remote flight font], autonomous flight contr and combinations thereof. [0030] As best seen in FIGS. 1A, 1C, 1B, 1G, serait 10 hs a vertical takeoff and landing fight mode wherein the istrbuted propulsion system sin its veatical lit orientation with rotor 284 of forward propulsion assembly 26a above tip oom 16a, rotor 286 of forward propulsion assembly 265 hove tip boom 165, rotor 2Ke of all propulsion assembly 26 below tip boom 16a and roiar 28d of alt propulsion ‘assembly 26d below tip boom 165. In this configuration cach rotor 284, 28), 28c, 28d has a generally horizontal orientation taking into account the atid of aiteraft 10. Flight contol system 60 independently controls and oper- ates each propulsion assembly 262, 26b, 26c, 26d to gen- erate lift as well as provide pitch, yaw and rll contro. Inthe illustrated configuration, the propwash generated by forward propulsion assemblies 260, 266 creates a minimum down- Toad on airframe 24 impeded only by forward ends 18, 18h of tip booms 16a, 166. The propwash generated by aft proptilsion assemblies 266, 261 is entirely unimpeded by Airframe 24 and thus creates no download on aicirame 24 Tie unique configuration of propulsion assemblies 26a, 260, 26c, 26d on arlrame 24 provides high ifteliciency for aircraft 10, [031] As best seen in FIGS, 1B, 1D, 1F, 11, sireraft 10 ‘has a forward light mode wherein the distibsted propulsion system isin its forward thrust orientation with rotor 28a of {orward propulsion assembly 260 forward of tip boom 16, rotor 28% of forward propulsion assembly 266 forward of ip ‘boom 160, olor 28e of at propulsion assembly 26e alt of ip oom 162 and rotor 28d of aft propulsion assembly 264 alt of tip boom 166. Fach rotor 28a, 28D, 280, 28d has @ generally vertical orientation aking info account the ate fof aircraft 10, Flight control system 60 independently con- trols and operates each propulsion assembly 264, 266, 26c, 26d 10 generate the equine thrust with wing 14 providing Jift and with aerodynamic surfaces inchuding as Maperons a, 146 and tail assemblies 22a, 22b providing pith, yaw ‘and ell contol, In the illsiated coafiguestion, the prop: ‘wash generated by forward propulsion assemblies 264, 265 travels generally in the chordwise dcection of wing 14 and the propwvash generated by aft propulsion assemblies 26, 26d is entirely unimpeded by airframe 24. Due to the configuration of airframe 24, tal assemblies 22a, 226 oper- ate in an upweash of Wing 14 jn te forward Night mode. For cample, til assemblies 220, 226 operate in a dynamic pressure ratio of between about 1.0 and about 1.3 in the Torward fight mode which contributes 10 the stability of sireraft 10 in forward Might mode. In aditon, asthe trust requirements in forward flight mode are reduced compared to the lift quirements of vertical takeoff and landing ight mode, during forward flight, fight contol system 60 may reduce the rotational speeds of some or all of propulsion ‘sseutblies 26a, 265,260, 26d. Altematvely or additionally, Hight contol system 60 may shut down cenain of the sropulsion assemblies 260, 266, 26c, 26d during forward High, in which case, the associated rotor blades may be allowed to windmil, may be locked against rotation or may be folded and locked. For example, light contol system 60 ‘may shut down forward propulsion assemblies 264, 265 ‘while operating aft propulsion assemblies 26°, 26d dring Torward fightUS 2019/0100313 Al 10032] Referring next to FIGS. 34-31. in the drawings, a sequential ight-operting scenario of aircraft 10 is depicted. As discussed herein, payload module 12 is selec tively atiachuble to wirtrame 24 such that a single airframe ‘can be operably coupled to and decoupled from numerous payload modules for numerous missions overtime, As best seen in FIG, 3A, payload module 12 is positioned on surface at a curent location such as at a worksite, in @ nilitary theater, on the flight deck of an siterat carter oF ‘ther location. Inthe illustated embodiment, payload mod ule 12 includes retractable wheel assemblies that enable round transportation of payload module 12. In other ‘embodiments, pyload module 12 may include skids or may have another suitable ground interface. As iusrated, ai- frame 24 is currently in an approach pattem near payload module 12 in is vertical takeo! and landing mode With ll propulsion assemblies 26 operating, For example, airframe 24 may have been dispatched from a staging location (© Perform the mission of transporting payload module 12 from the current location to @ destination, Airframe 24 may be ‘operated responsive to autonomous flight control based ‘upon Might plan preprogrammed into ight contol system 60 or may be operated responsive to remote fight control. In citer case, airframe 24 may be operable 1 identify the ‘current location of payload module 12 using, for example, lobal positioning system information or other location based system inloemation 10033] As best seen in FIG, 3B, airframe 24 has been ‘connected with payload module 12 o create a mechanical ‘coupling and, in some embodiments, communication chan- rel therebetween, As best seen in FIG, 3C, payload module 12 is fully supported by airframe 24 operating in VTOL mode. Onee payload module 12 is attached to aeframe 24, the fight contol system of airframe 24 may be responsive ‘o autonomous fight contol, remote ight control, onboard pilot fight contol or any combination thereof. For example, ‘in muaned missions it may be desirable to uilize onboard pilot flight control of a pilot within payload module 12 ‘during certain maneuvers such at takeot aad landing but rely on remote or autonomous fight conta during periods (of forward flight 10034] Regardless of the chosen fight control mode, eat ‘of the propulsion assemblies 26 is independently control Table during flight operations. For example, as best seen in FIG. 3C, to aid in stabilization during VTOL operations ‘including pitch, roll and yaw control during hover, it may be desirable 1 adjust the thrust output, torque output andor thrust vector of one or more of propulsion assemblies 26 as discussed herein. After venical assent 10 the desired eleva tion, aire 10 may bepin the transition Irom vertical takeoff to forward fight. As best seen in FIGS. 3C-3F, as sireraft 10 transitions from vertical taken and landing Might mode to forward light mode, the forward propulsion assem- blies transition from the vertical ft orientation, as best seen Jn FIG. 3C, tothe forward thrust orientation, a best seen in FIG. 3E, by Gling from an upwardly pointing orientation t© «forward pointing orientation. Likewise, the at propulsion ‘assemblies tansition from the vertical lif orientation, as best seen in FIG. 3C, to the forwant thrust orientation, as best seen in FIG. 3E, by titing from a downwardly pointing orientation to an aftvandly pointing orientation. Its noted that aircraft 10 remains in a generally horizontal atiude ‘during this transition forthe safety and comfort of passen= ers, erew andlor cargo catied in sera 1, Apr. 4, 2019 [0035] Once aircraft 10 has completed the transition 10 orward light mode, certain ofthe propulsion assemblies 26 may be operated at reduced speed or shut down as the thst regirements in forward fight mode are reduces! compared to the thrust requirements of vertical takeoff and landing flight mode. For example, as best seen in FIG. 3F, the {forward propulsion assemblies have been shut down and the ror blades have folded to reduce drag. Altematively, after the forwaed propulsion assemblies have been shut down the rotor blades may be feathered with the rotor hubs unlock allowing the rotors to windmill oF the rotors may be locked Tom rotating without folding [0036] When aircraft 10 begins its approaches to the estination, any propulsion assemblies 26 that were shut down of operate at a reduced speed are roengaged t0 provide full propulsion capabilities, a8 best seen in 3G. Airerat 10 may now begin its transition from forward light, ‘mode to vertical takeoff and landing ight mode. As best soen in FIGS. 30-31, as sieralt 1 transitions from forward fight mode to vertical takeo!T and landing flight mode, the forward propulsion assemblies transition frm the forward ‘thst orientation, as best seen in FIG. 3G, tothe Vertical it orientation, as best seen in FIG. 31, by tilting from the {forward pointing orientation to the upward pointing orien- tation. Likewise, the aft propulsion assemblies transition ‘rom the Forward thrust orientation, as best seen in FIG. 3G, to the vertical lit orientation, as best seen in FIG. 31, by ‘iting from the aftwardly pointing orientation to the down- wardly pointing orientation. It is noted that aireraft 10 remains in a generally horizontal attitude during this tran- sition forthe safety and comfort of passengers, crew andor cargo eatrod in areratt 10. Once aireraft 10 has completed the transition to vertical takeoff and landing Hight mode, as best sen in FIG. 3), ireraft 10 may commence its vertical descent 10 a landing surface at the destination location Payload module 12 may now lower its whee! assemblies to provide ground support for landing aircraft 10, as best seen in FIG. 35. Airframe 24 is now decoupled from payload sddle 12, as best seen in FIG. 3K. Aer transporting and releasing payload module 12 atthe destination, airframe 24 nay depart from the destination for another location and payload module 12 may be repositioned toa desired loeation using wheel assemblies to enable ground transportation, as best sen in FIG. 3. [0037] Referring additionally o FIG. 4 in the drawings, 0 block diagram depicts an sieralt control system 100 oper- able for use with ateraft 10 ofthe present selosure. In the illustrated embodiment, system 100 includes three primary ‘computer based subsystems; namely, an autonomous system 102, a pilot system 104 and a remote system 106. As discussed herein, the aireraft ofthe present disclosure may be operated autonomously responsive to commands gener ated by flight control system 108 that preferably incdes a on-transitory computer readable storage medium ineluding 4 set of computer instactions execnable by’ a processor Flight control system 108 may be a tply redundant syste implemented on one or more general-purpose computers, special purpose computers oF other machines with memory fd processing eapabiliy. For example, Hight control system 108 may include one oe more memory storage modules including, but is not limited to, internal storage memory such as random access memory, non-volatile memory such as read only memory, removable memory such as magnetic storage memory, optical storage, solid-state storage memoryUS 2019/0100313 Al for other suitable memory storage entity. Flight contol system 108 may hea microprocessor-based system operable {0 execute program code inthe form of machine-executable instructions. In addition, light control system 108 may be selectively connectable to other computer systems via a propriciary enerypled nework, a public enerypted actvork, the Internet of other suitable communication network that may include both wired and wireless connections. 10038) In he illustrated embodiment, ight control system 108 includes a command module 110 and a monitoring ‘module 112. Its to be understood by those skiled in the art that these and other modules executed by Might control system 108 may be implemented in a variety of forms including hardware, software, firmware, special purpose processors and combinations thereof, Flight conirol system 108 receives input from a variety of sources including internal sources such as sensors 114, controllers 116, pro- pulsion assemblies 18, 120, 122, 124 and pilot system 104 ‘as well as external sources such as remote system 106, lobal positioning system satellites or other location posi Toning systems and the like, For example, Hight control system 108 may receive a fight plan including stating and ‘ending locations for a mission frm pilot system 104 andor emote system 106. Thereafter, flight contro system 108 is ‘operable to autonomously control all aspects of Hight of an srcraft of the present disclosure, 10039] For example, during the various operating modes ‘of aircraft 10 including vertical takeo{T and landing flight mode, hover flight mode, forward fight mode aod tai tions therebetween, command module 110 provides cor ‘ands to controllers 16, These commands enable indepen- ‘dent operation of each propulsion assembly 118, 120, 122, 124 including, for example, controlling the rotational speed ‘ofthe mors, changing the piteh ofthe rotor blades, adjusting the thrast vectors and the lke. In addition these commands ‘enable transition of airerat 10 between the vertical lif ‘orientation and the forward thrast orientation, Flight contol system 108 receives feedback from controllers 116 and each propulsion assembly 118, 120, 122, 124. This feedback is processes by monitoring module 142 that can supply eor- rection data und other information io command module 10 and/or controllers 116. Sensors 114, such as positioning sensors altitude Sensors, speed sensors, environmental Sen- sors, fuel sensors, temperature sensor, location sensors and the like also provide information to fight contol system 108 'o further enhance autonomous contro capabilites. [0040] | Some orall ofthe autonomous coateol capability of Sight contol system 108 can be augmented or supplanted by ‘remote flight contol system 106, Remote system 106 may jnclude one or computing systems dat may be implemented ‘on general-purpose computers, special purpose computers oF ‘ther machines with memory and processing capability. Por ‘example, the computing systems may include one or more memory storage modules including, but is not Fimited to, ‘internal storage memory such as random access memory. non-volatile memory sueh as read oaly memory, removable memory such as magnet storage memory, optical storage memory, solid-state store memory or other suitable memory storage entity. The computing systems may be mmicroprocessor-based systems operable fo execute program ‘code in the form of machine-exceutable instructions. In ‘addition, the computing systems may be connected to othe ‘computer systems via a proprictary encrypted network, 3 public encrypied network, the Internet oF other suitable Apr. 4, 2019 communication network that may inelude both wired and ‘wireless connections. The communication networks may be a Toca area network, a wide area network, the Internet, oF any other ype of network that couples a plurality of computers to enable various modes of communication via network messages using as suitable communication techniques, such as transmission control protocoVinteet protoeo, fle trans- {er protocol, hypertext transfer protocol, intemet protocol scotty proiaeol, point-to-point tunneling protocal, secure sockets layer protocol or other suitable protocol. Remote system 196 communicates with ight contol system 108 via ‘communication link 130 that may include both wired and ‘wireless connections, [0041] Remote system 106 preferably includes one or more Night data display devices 126 conligured to display information relating t0 one or more aireraft of the present isclosure, Display deviees 126 may be configured in any suitable form, inching, for example, liquid crystal dis plays, light diode displays, cathode ray tube di em 106 ‘may aso inelude audio output and input devices such as & microphone, speakers andor an audio port allowing an ‘operator fo communicate with, for example a plot on board fieraft 10. The display device 126 may also serve as a remote input device 128 if touch sereen display imple- ‘mentation is used, however, other remote input devices, such as a keyboard of joysticks, may altematively be used 10 allow an operator to provide control commands oan ateralt being operated responsive 10 remote conto [0042] Some oral ofthe autonomous andor remote ight control of an aircraft of the present disclosure can be ‘augmented or supplanted by onboard pilot fight contol from pilot system 104, Pilot system 10M may be integrated ‘with autonomous system 102 or may bea standalone system preferably including # son-transitory computer reidable Storage medium including a set of computer instretions executable by a procesor and may be implemented by a {Zeneral-purpose compute, a special purpose computer or ther machine with memory and processing capability. Pilot system 104 may include one or more memory storage ‘modules including, but is not limited to, intemal storie ‘memory such as random access memory, non-volatile memory such as ead only memory, removable memory such as magnetic storage memory, optical storage memory, solide Slate storage memory or other suitable memory storage enlty. Pilot system 104 may be a microprocessorbased system operable to execute program cade in the form of ‘machiine-executable instructions. In adition, pilot system 104 may be connectable to other computer Systems via a proprictaryenerypied network, a public enerypted network, the Intemet oF other suitable communication network that may include both wired and wiroless connections. Pilot system 104 may communicate with light control system 108 via a communication channel 136 that preferably includes a Wired coanectio [0043] Pilot system 104 preferably includes @ cockpit sisplay device 132 configured o display infomation to an ‘onboard pilot, Cockpit display device 132 may be config- ‘ured in any suitable form, including, for example, as one or ‘more display sereens such as liquid crystal displays, light emitting diode displays and the like or any’ other suitable display type including, for example, a display panel, a dashboard display, an augmented reality display or the lke Pilot system 104 may also include audio output and inputUS 2019/0100313 Al “devices such asa microphone, speakers andlor an audio por allowing an onboard pilot to communicate with, for ‘example, air trllic control or an operator of a remote system. Cockpit display device 132 may also serve a plot ‘input device 134 if toneh seroen display implementation is used, however, other user interfice devices may alterna. tively be used to allow an onboard pot to provide control ‘commands to an aircraft heing opemted responsive 10 ‘onboant pilot contol including, for example, 2 contol panel, mechanical contra devices or aller control devices AAs should be apparent those having ordinarily skill nthe fart, through the use of system 100, an airraft ofthe present disclosure can be operated responsive to 2 flight contol protocol including autonomous Bight control remote Aight ‘control or onboard pilot flight controt and combinations thereof, [0044] Refering now to PIGS, SA.5B of the drawings ‘one embodiment of a process for transporting a payload module by air from a current location 1» destination will now be described. A first step of the process involves receiving a request for transportation services by a trans- portation services provider, as indicated in block 200 of FIG. SA. The request may be made over a telephone network from 2 person desiring transportation of @ payload module and received by an operator at the transportation services provider in which esse, the operator logs the request ino the Transporation services provider computing system. Alerna- tively, the request may be received directly by the anspor tation services provider computing system over a dala ‘communication network from 8 compuier device, such as 3 ‘desktop computer or mobile computing device of the person ‘desiring. traisportation, Once the transportation request is, received in the transportation servees provider computing system, an airframe is solected from, for example fleet of sir ames maintained at a hub or other traasportation ser- viees provider location, as indicated in block 202, The transportation services provider computing system then gen- ‘erates a light plan, as indicated in block 204, including at Teast the current location of the payload module and the destination location for the payload module. The next step involves sending the flight plan from the transportation services provider computing system to the fight contol system of the selected airframe, a indicated in block 206. Depending upon the relative locations ofthe transportation services provider computing system and the selected it~ fame, this comminiestion may take place via a wined andlor wireless communication network such as local area network, a wireless local area network, the Intemet or other suitable network, 10045] The reminder of the steps of the present embodi- rent ofa process for transporting the payload module are performed by the flight control system of the selected payload module, as best soon in FIG. $B. The next stop ‘involves uploading the fight plan to the Night control system of the selected payload module, as indicated in block 208, The airframe may now be operated responsive to autono= ‘mous flight contro, remote fight contol or a combination thereot, Reyaniless of fight control mode, the next step is dispatching the selected airframe from the transporation| services provider location to the current location of the payload module tobe transporte, as indicated in block 210. This step may involve departing from the transportation services provider location, selecting a ight path to the ‘current location ofthe payload module, identifying a landing Apr. 4, 2019 zoe proximate the cueent location ofthe payload medule, Performing an approach aad landing, thea positioning the Brame relative othe payload module enable attachment Therehetween. The next step i+ coupling the arias to payload module, a indicated in block 212. The process of Coupling te uiztrame tote payload module may Be sutond- ‘ots, mana oF @ combination thereof, In any ease, the Coupling proces aches forming a mechanical somnetion fn preferably establishing a comimanieation channel ther het [00465] The airframe may now be operated responsive autonomous ight contol, remote Malt coat, cnboard pilot ight contol or a combination thereat. Once the payload module # propery coupled to the airframe, the same lifts the payload mesdle into the ai in a vertical {akeof and Tanding modes incate in Block 244, Dring the verical takoof the payload modules prefobly maine tuned in a genenily horizontal aude and cach of the propulsion atcmblics of the distributed propulsion syst Ine independently operated using, for example, selective collective pitch and selective nist vectoring as dincusted herein. Once the acrame has reached a deste sltiude vertical taco and landing mode, the next step is trans tioning the sieffame from the vericl kool and landing mode to forward fight mode, as indicate in block 216 {0047] Once in forward ght moe the next step is transporting the payload module to the desired destination locaton, as indented in block 218, Depending upon factors such asthe distance of travel and environmental conditions, ftmay he desirable to shutdown cena propulsion assem: Dis, a discussed herein, during fortand Might. As the airframe approaches the destination, the next step s tans Toning the sine from the forward Might mode 10 the ‘ertcliakeof and Taning mode, ss indiated in block 220, ‘The nest step is landing the sivframe a the destination, as indicated in Block 222. This stop may involve identifying Tanding zone and performing an approach in the vertical takoot apd landing mod Once onthe ground the sire smay release the payload module athe destination loaton, fs indicated in block 224. Thereafter, the next scp is returning the airfzame trom the destination of the payload ‘module wo the tansportation services provider lation, 28 indicate in block 26 (0048) As ould be understood by those sid inte art the process for tansporting payload module By ae fom its creat locaton to detain describ with eference to FIGS, 84.88 is morely one example of may assons an tiem of the present disclosure could perfor, While the desribed mission inlided round tig from a transport tion services provider eatin to provide transportation 10 9 single payload module, an aerameof the present disclosure ould altematively provisesequeaal wansprtaton events {or mokipe payload mosoles during a single trip into the field without retuming to the transportation services prox vider Tosation in between. Likewise, a airrame of the preset dislowure could tasport a single payload module {© multiple Tocatons with motile takeol nd landing vents ding single mission. Accordingly those skilled in the art will recognize that the airframes of the present GGsclosure may perform an array of useful and venatle Iissions involving transportation of variety of manned nd ‘manned payed modules. {0049} Referriag to FIG. 6 in the drawings, «payload nodule jettison sequence is depicted. For example, thisUS 2019/0100313 Al ‘could represent an emergency event in. a manned mission oF ‘cargo drop mission sich as delivering bunanitacian sup plies to a remote area afler a hurricane or other natural dlsoster. In one example, if sensors on board airframe 24 indicate a eritical condition relating tothe continued oper ability of airframe 24, the fight contr system, based upon ‘onboat pilot commands, remote commands andor antono= ‘mous commands, ean initiate a payload module jettison Sequence. In accordance with the jettison command, ait- frame 24 releases payload module 12, Concurrently there- with or thereafer, payload module 12 deploys one or more parachutes 702,70, Preferably, parachutes 70a, 705 may be parafol parachute having an aerodynamic cell structure that fs inllated responsive to incoming air ow that provides bot steerablity and a controlled rate of descent to minimize the landing impact payload module 12 on a surface or in the water, in which ease, payload module 12 is. preferably ‘watertight 10050] Continuing withthe example of eiicl condition ‘on board airframe 24 and in the event that airframe 24 is ‘unable to continue fight even aller payload module 12 has been jettisoned, airframe 24 along with its fuel supply will likely Tand remote from payload! module 12, thus minimiz- ing the risk to passengers andlor ew of payloed module 12 'o fire andor other hazards. Once payload module 12 has been jettisoned, however, the reduction in weight may ‘enable airframe 24 to continue flight and perform a con- trolled descent and landing. In this case, srframe 24 may be preprogrammed to return lo & home base or commanded ia real-time to fly 10a safe location determined by a remote ‘operator or autonomously by the fight control system, Preferably, the safe location may be proximate the landing location of payload module 12 [0081] Referring to FIG. 7, a plurality of interchangeable payload modules 3002, 300, 300¢ operable to reveive @ plurality of interchangeable payload packages for use with fn aircraft ofthe present disclosure having upwardly titable Jorward rotors and downward tltable all rotors are shown. Undersides 3024, 3025, 302¢ of payload modules 3002, 3005, 300¢ respectively include central modula bays 3062, 3066, 3066 an side modular bays 3082, 308, 308c, 3102, $105, 310c. Inthe illustrated embodiment, the side modulat bays flank the central modular bays and are also abreast relative to one another. The central modula bays are sized “ifferealy than the side modula bays allowing the modular bays to accept different sized payload packages. In one non-limiting example, the side modular bays may be used for sensors and air-to-ground weapons while the central modular hay may be used for oversized payloads such as torpedoes and ait-o-sir weapons. Even though payload modules 3004, 3005, 300 have been depicted and deseribed a having three modular bays ina particular configuration, it should be understood by those having oedinary skill in the that payload modules of the present disclosure could have other configurations inchudiag configurations having coher numbers of modular bays such as configurations having no modular bays. Those skilled in the aft will ‘understand tha the illustrated configuration is merely one of numerous payload module implementations and that pay- Joa modules ofthe present disclosure may assime a wide range of specific implementations. Apr. 4, 2019 [0052] Referring additionally to FIGS. 8A-8C, various payload packages having dillerent respective functions are shown, These payload packages are interchangeably insert able into side modular bays 308a, 3086, 308c, 3102, 3105, 316 which are sized to receive the illustrated payload packages. FIG. BA illustrates fuel packages 312, which are ‘apa of caerying fel tanks or baps tobe used by airframe 24, FIG. 3B illysrates @ ight detection and ranging (L1- DAR) package 314 and a sonobuoy' launcher package 316 The sonohuoy launcher package 316 may be any size, such as a 30 "G" size. LIDAR package 314 and. sonobvoy Tuncher package 316 are air reconnaissance and. ant submarine warfare packages, respectively, that allow aircraft 10 perform reconnaissance operations, FIG. 3Cilusteates ‘weapons packayes 318 that include missiles 320 mounted on ‘an inner suriace 322 of a bay door 324. In one non-limiting example missiles 320 are air-to-ground missiles such as Helle or JAGM missiles [0053] Referring additionally to FIGS. 8D-86, various payload packages having diferent respective functions are shown, These payload packages are interchangeably inser- able into central modular bays 306, 3066, 306c, which are Sized to reccive the illstated payload packages. FIG. 8D shows a weapons package 328 that includes a short range air-to-air missle 320, such as an AIM-9 Sidewinder missile, FFIG. 8B illustrates a combination package 332 that includes ‘acango hook 334 as wells storage capacity for Tuel or other cargo. Combination packages, such as combination package 4322, allow more than one funtion to be integrated into @ Single payload package. FIG. 8F shows a reconnaissan package 336, such as a 360 degree surface radar or mult Spectral sensor. FIG. 8G illustrates an anti-submarine wat fare package 338, In the illustrated embodiment, anti-sub- ‘marine warfare package 338 includes an MK0 torpedo. The Wide range of functions of the payload packages shown ia FIGS. 8A-8G and thus the wide range of functions of various payloed modules 30a, 3005, 300c are exemplary of the numerous functions that are supported by the areraft of the present disclosure. The payload packages are inter changeable in the modular bays and the payload modules are interchangeable on airframe 24 thus allowing the aircrat of the preseat disclosure to perform the various funetions ofthe payload modules and implement a wide rang of operational Inissions by simply interchanging payload modules. [0054] The foregoing description of embodiments of the isclosure hus been presented for purposes of illustration and description. Is not intended t be exhaustive orto limit the disclosure to the precise fon disclosed, and modifica- ‘ions and variations are possible in light of the above teachings or may be aquired from practice of the disclosure, ‘The embodiments were chosen and described in onder to explain the principals of the disclosure and its proetical pplication t enable one skilled in the art 10 utilize the ‘isclosure in various embodiments and with various modi- fications as are suited to the particular wse contemplate. Other substitions, modifications, changes aexl omisio may be made in the design, operating conditions and ‘arrangement of the embodiments without departing. from the scope of the present disclosure. Such modifications and combinations oF the illustrative embodiments. as well as ‘ther embodiments will be apparent to persons skilled in the ft upon reference t the description. It is, therefore intended that the appended claims encompass aay sich noditications or embodiments,US 2019/0100313 Al ‘What i elaimed is 1. A Glirotor areraft having a vertical takeofT and landing flight mode anda forward flight mode, the aireralt compris- ing: ‘an airframe including a wing having first and second ‘oppositely disposed wing tps: first and second tip booms respectively extending longi ‘udinally from the first and seoond wing tps, the fist and second tip booms each having forward and. aft ends; fist and second forward rotors respectively coupled to the forward ends of the frst and socond tip booms, the frst. and socond forward rotors reversibly titable between 2 vertical lift orientation, wherein the first and second forward rotors are abowe the respective ist and second ‘ip booms, anda forward thrust orientation, wherein the fist and second forward rotors are forward of the respective first and second tip booms; and first and second aft rotors respectively coupled tothe af fends of the fst and second tip booms, the first and second aft rotors reversibly tiltable between a vertical Tit orientation, wherein the first andl second aft rors are below the respective first and second tp booms, and 4 forward thrust orientation, wherein the fist’ and Second alt rotors are afl of the respective frst and second tip booms: and ‘one of a plurality of payload modules interchangeably coupled to the airframe: ‘wherein, each of the plurality of payload modules teas 3 respective funtion. 2. The tiltrotor itera as recited in claim 1 farther ‘comprising a flight contol system operably associated with the forward rotors and the af oters, the Right control system ‘operable to independently contro] éach of the rotors includ ing transitions between the vertical Tift and the forward thrust orientations 3. The tilrotoraireraft as recited in elim 2 wherein the flight control system commands operation of the rotors responsive to at lest one of onboard pilot Bight control, remote light control, autonomous fight contol and com binations thereot 4, The tltrotoraireraft as recited in elim 1 wherein the payload module coupled to the wing further comprises @ ‘manned module. 5, The tiltotor aircraft as rcited in claim 1 wherein the payload module coupled to the wing further comprises an tunmanned modu. 6, The tllrotoraireraft as recited in elim 1 wherein the payload movinle coupled to the wing is operable to be Jatisoned during Might. 7. The tilrotor aircraft ax recited in claim 1 wherein the payload module coupled to the wing is selected from the froup consisting of fuel module, a cargo module, @ ‘weapons module, a communications module and a sensor rodule '8, The tiltrotor aircraft as rcited in claim 1 wherein the orward otors are counter rotated and wherein the sft rotors are counter rotated to control yaw in the vertical takeoff and Janding Might mode 9, The tltotoraireraft as recited in elnim 1 wherein the forward and aft rotors of the first tip boom are eounter rotated and wherein the forward tnd afl rotors ofthe second tip boom are cotnter rotated to contol yaw in the vertical takeoff and landing flight mode, Apr. 4, 2019 10, The tiltrotor sireraft as recited in claim 1 further comprising fit and socond ail assemblies respectively ‘oupled to the aft ends ofthe fist and second tip booms, the Tist and second tail assemblies operating in an upwash inthe forward light mode. 11, The tlteotor airerat as recited in claim 1 further comprising « power system including atleast one electie ‘motor operably associated with each of the rotors and an electric energy saute. 12, The tltrotor aircraft as recited in claim 1 wherein the forward rotors further eomprise folding rotor blades oper able to reduce drag inthe forward fight mode and whereia the aft rotors further comprise fixed pitch rotor blades. 13. Atilttoraireraft having a vertical takeoff an landing fight mode and a Yorward Bight mode, the airralt compeis- ing: 8 Jongitudinally extending fuselage: ‘wing extending laterally from the fuselage having first land second oppositely disposed wingtips distal from the fuselage; first and second tip booms respostively extending longi- ‘udinally from the first and second wing tps, the fist ‘and second tip booms each having forward and aft ends; first and second forward rotors respectively coupled tothe forward ends of the first and second tip booms the ist and second forward otors reversibly tiltable between vertical lift orientation, wherein the fst and second forward rotors are above the respective first and second tip booms, snd «forward trast orientation, wherein the first and second forward rotors are forward of the respective fist and second tip booms; and first and second aft rotors respectively coupled tothe aft ‘ends of the first and second tip booms, the first and Sccond aft rotors reversibly titable between a verticl TiN orientation, wherein the frst and second aft rotors are low the respective frst and second tp booms, nd 2 Torwand thaust erienation, wherein the first and Second aff rotors are ait of the respective frst and second tip booms. 14, The tilt sireraft as resid in claim 13 furer ‘comprising a ight contol system operably associated With the forwant rotors andthe af otos, the ight control system ‘operable to independently control each of the rotors iclud- ‘ng. transitions between the vertical lift and the forward ‘thrust orientations, 15, The tltotorsireraf as recited in elaim 14 wherein the Aight control system commands operation of the rotors responsive to at least one of onboard pilot Hight contre, remote fight contol, autonomous fight control and com: binationsthereot 16, The tltrotorsireraf 8 rected in elaim 13 wherein the {onward rotors are counter rotated and wherein the af rotors fre counter rotated to contol yaw in the vertical takeo!T and Janding fight mode. 17. Thetitrotor aircraft as rected in claim 13 wherein the orward and aft roton of the first tip boom are counter rated and wherein the forward and aft rotors ofthe second ‘ip boom are connter rotated to eontrol yaw in the vertical takeoff snd landing Right mode. 18, The tiltrotor aircraft as recited in claim 13 further comprising frst and second tail assemblies respectivelyUS 2019/0100313 Al Apr. 4, 2019. 10 the the ‘coupled to the aft ends ofthe frst and second tip boon first and second al assemblies operating in an upwas Jorward flight mode. 19. The Ultotor sireraft as recited in elim 13 furcher ‘comprising a power system including at least one electric rotor operably associated with each of the rotors and ua ‘elecric energy souree 20, The tltroto sireaft as rcitd in claim 13 wherein the orwaed rovors further comprise folding rotor blades oper- able to reduce drag in the forward flight mode and wherein the aff rotors farther comprise fixed pitch rotor blades.