High-bandwidth actuation at the core of fluidic propulsion
In the FTC-250 architecture, Volz servos operate the key control functions of the propulsion system - from metering airflow to directing thrust and protecting the compressors. The actuators:
- precisely drive butterfly valves to meter compressed airflow to each thruster
- rotate rear thrusters (~100°) for the transition between vertical and horizontal flight - and back - within six seconds
- shut off forward thrusters during wing-borne flight
- actuate high-speed relief valves to help prevent compressor stall
- provide safety through redundant duplex servo architectures
Volz CEO Phillipp Volz: “This fluidic propulsion is a really powerful system and we are proud that Jetoptera chose Volz for actuators. What really matched with Volz and Jetoptera was the fast response, minimal EMI and cabling, and the digital bus control with telemetry.”
Jetoptera also benefits from the digital command interface and telemetry feedback, enabling precise control with reduced wiring and shielding needs - helping the FPS® deliver fast, stable VTOL response without the inertia challenges of prop-driven systems.
