Krossblade Aerospace Systems
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Aviation, Aerospace |
| Founded | 2014 |
| Headquarters | Phoenix , United States |
| Products | Krossblade SkyCruiser, Krossblade SkyProwler, Krossblade SkyProwler 2 |
| Website | www |
Krossblade Aerospace Systems is an aviation enterprise established in 2014 and based in Phoenix, Arizona, USA. The company specializes in pioneering hybrid VTOL aircraft, such as the five-seat SkyCruiser and the unmanned SkyProwler prototype. Both aircraft incorporate a unique switchblade transformation system that facilitates a shift from multirotor vertical take-off and landing to streamlined fixed-wing cruising. These offerings serve international aerospace sectors by merging the functionalities of helicopters, airplanes, and automobiles into adaptable vehicles engineered for swift and versatile transport.
Krossblade SkyCruiser
The SkyCruiser is a VTOL aircraft capable of transformation and limited road travel, accommodating five passengers and powered by a hybrid propulsion system. Its rotors and propellers are electrically driven, with power supplied by a 400 hp internal combustion engine linked to a generator. A compact battery acts as an emergency power source, permitting short-duration flight on stored electric energy. The SkyCruiser achieves speeds exceeding 300 mph and has an operational range near 1,000 miles. Although it can be driven on roads, its design prioritizes aerial performance, combining rapid long-distance cruising with VTOL capabilities to land close to passenger destinations. Market release was targeted before 2020.
Krossblade SkyProwler
The SkyProwler is an electric UAV/drone prototype created to validate technologies and designs intended for the larger SkyCruiser. It employs the switchblade mechanism enabling transformation from multirotor VTOL mode to fixed-wing cruise flight, reaching speeds up to 55 mph. Its potential uses include delivery operations.
Krossblade SkyProwler 2
Launched in 2019, the SkyProwler 2 incorporates VTOL functionality through foldable and extendable arms, enhancing its operational adaptability and efficiency.
Switchblade mechanism
Distinct from conventional quadcopters with static frames, the switchblade system features pivoting arms that carry motors and rotors which fold within the fuselage. This architecture minimizes aerodynamic resistance, boosting speed and efficiency. Incorporating the switchblade VTOL design adds roughly 15% more weight compared to fixed-wing-only aircraft.
See also
- Flying car (fiction)
- Personal air vehicle
- Comparison of personal air vehicles
- CarterCopter
- Intermodal passenger transport
- Aerocar
- Aerocar Aero-Plane
- Aerocar Coot