TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER OPPORTUNITY: VTOL UAV with the Cruise Efficiency of a Conventional Fixed Wing UAV: LAR-18332-1, LAR-18332-1-CON

Synopsis: NASA Langley Research Center in Hampton, VA solicits inquiries from companies interested in obtaining license rights to commercialize, manufacture and market the following technology. License rights may be issued on an exclusive or nonexclusive basis and may include specific fields of use. NASA provides no funding in conjunction with these potential licenses. THE TECHNOLOGY: Scientists at NASA Langley Research Center have developed a novel hybrid electric aircraft. The core technology that enables the Greased Lightning UAV is the aerodynamic efficiency it achieves in its cruise configuration. Electric motors at each propeller negate the need for drive shafts and gearing which enables this Distributed Electric Propulsion (DEP) aircraft configuration. The design is intended to utilize a hybrid electric drive system that includes small diesel engines which drive alternators to power the electric motors and to charge an on-board battery system. The batteries provide the power boost needed for VTOL and hovering. Numerous other novel design elements are incorporated, such as folding propellers to minimize drag when not in operation, such that the propulsive efficiency can be nearly ideal at both hover and wing borne flight conditions. NASA is seeking to license this technology commercially in the United States. US Patent 9,475,579. To express interest in this opportunity, please respond to [email protected] with the title of this Technology Transfer Opportunity as listed in this FBO notice and your preferred contact information. Please also provide how you foresee using the technology along with a brief background of your company. Additionally, please identify any non-US interests/subsidiaries in your company as well. For more information about licensing other NASA Langley-developed technologies, please visit the NASA Langley's Technology Gateway at https://technologygateway.nasa.gov/ These responses are provided to members of NASA Langley's Office of Strategic Analysis and Business Development "OSACB" for the purpose of promoting public awareness of NASA-developed technology products, and conducting preliminary market research to determine public interest in and potential for future licensing opportunities. If direct licensing interest results from this posting, OSACB will follow the required formal licensing process of posting in the Federal Register. No follow-on procurement is expected to result from responses to this Notice.