Hybrid clutch assembly for an aircraft

Abstract

A hybrid clutch assembly inserted between an internal combustion engine and the propeller of an aircraft to provide a hybrid-powered aircraft. The hybrid clutch assembly allows a direct current (DC) electric motor to be attached to the hybrid clutch assembly using drive belts. The hybrid clutch assembly allows the internal combustion engine to transmit power to the aircraft's propeller and freely spin the DC motor. The DC motor can transmit power to the aircraft's propeller without turning the internal combustion engine. The hybrid clutch assembly independently allows either the internal combustion engine or the DC motor in parallel to power the aircraft's propeller. The hybrid clutch assembly includes a hybrid clutch, a drive belt housing, a hybrid clutch assembly shaft, and an adapter plate. The hybrid clutch connects to the drive belt housing a hybrid clutch assembly shaft. The adapter plate enables connection of the hybrid clutch to the internal combustion engine propeller flange. The drive belt housing enables connection of the hybrid clutch to the propeller. The DC motor is connected to the drive belt housing drive belts.