Abstract
The electric power supply system is one of the most important research areas within sustainable and energy-efcient aviation for more- and especially all electric aircraft. This paper discusses the history in electrication, current trends with a broad overview of research activities, state of the art of electrication and an initial proposal for a short-range aircraft. It gives an overviewof the mission prole, electrical sources, approaches for the electrical distribution system and the required electrical loads. Current research aspects and questions are discussed, including voltage levels, semiconductor technology, topologies and reliability. Because of the importance for safety possible circuit breakers for the proposed concept are also presented and compared, leading to a initial proposal. Additionally, a very broad review of literature and a state of the art discussion of the wiring harness is given, showing that this topic comes with a high number of aspects and requirements. Finally, the conclusion sums up the most important results and gives an outlook on important future research topics.
Highlights
Two key drivers for electrifying air transportation can be identified: First, pollution as a result of the ever-increasing number of flights needs to be limited, if current climate goals are to be reached
Parameters which are beneficial for an application of this circuit breaker within an All Electric Aircraft (AEA) are marked with ‘‘+’’ and even better with ‘‘++’’
Some parameters here are dependent on the chosen circuit breaker topology as discussed below
Summary
Two key drivers for electrifying air transportation can be identified: First, pollution as a result of the ever-increasing number of flights needs to be limited, if current climate goals are to be reached. In the All Electric Aircraft (AEA) the thrust components will be replaced with electric systems, prospectively in a series hybrid concept for medium- to long-range applications To make this concept feasible, progress in a multitude of areas is needed. Interconnecting the sources as well as the loads, which includes beside the motors the Wing Ice Protection System (WIPS), the Environmental Control System (ECS), the control flaps, avionics, hotel and galley loads and more, requires a high efficiency energy distribution system. This electrical grid can be seen as key driver for energy-efficient aviation.
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