Textron Inc.
Exhaust manifold for combining system exhaust plume

Abstract:

Disclosed herein is an aircraft that includes an exhaust manifold for combining one or more system exhaust paths located upstream of equipment inlets and directing the exhausts upwards towards the rotor linkages such that the exhaust is expelled and diffused forward of the equipment inlets. According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the exhaust manifold includes a structure for supporting a transmission cowling at the top of the aircraft and/or on the sides of the aircraft. For example, the exhaust manifold may include a platform that contains the exhaust ducts and may include a frame extending from the platform that follows the contours of the cowling, such that the cowling lays along the support frame for additional mechanical support.