Comprehensive approach to comparative efficiency evaluation of HPS for helicopters

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of the work is to carry out analysis of the possibilities and estimation of electric drive efficiency for rotors of helicopter propulsion systems (PS). Design/methodology/approach – Methodology and comprehensive multidisciplinary technology for efficiency estimation of conventional and unconventional architectures PS on rotorcraft system level at preliminary design phase were developed. Findings – Application of the approach allow to carry out analysis of hybrid (based on gas turbine and piston engines) and full electrical PS for superlight-, light- and medium-size helicopters. Practical implications – It was shown what level of electrical technologies improvement may provide positive effect of the using of hybrid and full electrical helicopter PS of different architectures. Originality/value – Close matching of helicopter and engine design and calculation aspects, as well as possibilities to use the external (experimental) performances of engine components, whole PS and helicopter a...