The construction is thus facilitated as this design will have fewer parts and therefore be easier to assemble. In addition, the aircraft can be scaled to accommodate the intended mission. Manned or unmanned, the VX-1 KittyHawk’s massive internal volume is a huge advantage.
Furthermore, it will have a smaller carbon footprint than other aircraft when based on payload capability. “The volume will also allow KittyHawk to lead the way in adopting compressed natural gas as an aviation fuel. Existing technology CNG tanks fit inside the aircraft with no aerodynamic compromise. At less than 1/3 the cost of avgas, the KittyHawk will have unparalleled operational economy with emissions that are 40% cleaner,” says Bob Skillen, VX Aerospace’s CEO.
“C-Ply is the first true advance in carbon fabrics in a long time. It is designed to optimize fiber performance. Chomarat capitalized on the low-angle, thin ply, non-crimp laminate concept developed by Prof. Steve Tsai. The result is a fabric that allows for cost effective production of open mold parts with the same (or better) performance characteristics of A T P parts. This is a game changer for small business,” commented Skillen.
The ¼ scale version of the KittyHawk™ made from C-Ply can be seen during the JEC Show in Paris (March 11-13) at Chomarat’s booth.
Source: Chomarat.
