Progress in Optimizing the Propulsive Fuselage Aircraft Concept

Abstract

As a novel approach toward the realization of synergistic airframe–propulsion system integration, the characteristics of a propulsive fuselage aircraft concept targeting entry-into-service year 2035 are discussed in this paper. In previous work, the concept of a boundary-layer ingesting propulsor encircling the aft section of an axisymmetric fuselage was identified to be particularly promising for attaining a noticeable reduction in required propulsive power. After presenting the basic features of the concept, the methodological approach used for the assessment of the highly integrated boundary-layer ingesting propulsion system is reviewed. Using this set of methods, several parametric design studies as presented that are suitable for discussing the system- and aircraft-level implications. In addition, a best-and-balanced design point is selected, and the sensitivities of important design parameters associated with the concept are highlighted, thereby allowing for performing a technology-based scenario analysis. To round off, the impact of varying design cruise speeds on aircraft key parameters is compared and contrasted to the characteristics of an advanced twin-engine reference aircraft.