The Central Aerohydrodynamic Institute named after N. E. Zhukovsky (TsAGI) has received a patent for a closed-circuit transport aircraft with an oval bearing surface. The development was registered with Rospatent.
The idea is aimed at solving one of the key problems of aviation — the loss of wing efficiency at high speeds and the increase in load on the structure. In classic airliners, this leads to an increase in weight, fuel consumption and the risk of aeroelastic deformations.
In the new project, the wing and horizontal tail form a closed oval shape. The fuselage is located above the wing and connected to it by supporting elements that provide free air flow. This increases the lift of the central part and reduces drag.
The straight swept wing and reverse swept tail are connected by external keels with all-moving winglets. They control roll, yaw, braking and redistribution of aerodynamic loads. This solution allows you to deal with flutter and control reversal — one of the main threats in transonic modes.
High bypass ratio engines are located in the tail section and are included in the power circuit. This reduces noise in the cabin and increases the strength of the structure. Additional controls duplicate the main systems.