Jetoptera Completes Propulsion Tests; Issues Equity

Edmonds, WA based Jetoptera has completed testing for its “fluidic propulsion system” and followed up this technical progress by issuing a second round of equity for $1.5 Million.

Jetoptera’s J2000 VTOL will be powered by the fluidic propulsion system. The aircraft is expected to cruise at 200mph, have a range of 200 miles and a maximum take-off weight of 2000lbs.

The propulsion system was tested on glider prototypes to validate a proof-of-concept design before moving on to the full scale J2000 prototype.

The CEO of Jetoptera, Denis Dancanet, stated: “Following on from fluidic propulsion’s first flight two months ago, we have developed a glider-based platform to test FPSTM systems of various sizes, shapes and power. This summer, more tests will follow employing the flying test bed for wing flight evaluations. Separately, Jetoptera’s technology maturation plan also includes upcoming VTOL and hovering demonstrations.”

Jetoptera claims that fluidic propulsion has greater efficiency than vector-thrust based propulsion systems. Fluidic propulsion is claimed to be more compact than vectored thrust with the same efficiency as a turbofan.

“It allows a rapid deployment of the best designs down selected from static and wind tunnel tests. It shows clearly the advantages of using the propulsion system for other wing-borne flight applications as well. This test is a key step in the FPSTM maturation program, which has yielded positive results and sets us on the right path for future certification testing.”

Here’s a video of the J2000 concept:

After completion of the test flight, Jetoptera issued their second round of equity for $1.5 million, which matches their initial offering in 2017 for the same amount.

Why it’s important: A growing momentum of physical testing in the VTOL industry is allowing for more publicity, and investment, to flow to a large number of smaller companies that are innovating on classical aerospace engineering design decisions to produce the next generation of aircraft. Stay tuned to Jetoptera’s fundraising progress, and to the integration of their fluidic propulsion system into the J2000 prototype.

Learn more about the J2000 here.

Source

• VTOL Investor
• Image // Jetoptera