A Comparison of Hybrid-Electric Aircraft Sizing Methods

D. Felix Finger, Reynard de Vries, Roelof Vos, Carsten Braun, Cees Bil

Research output: Chapter in Book/Conference proceedings/Edited volumeConference contributionScientificpeer-review

29 Citations (Scopus)
953 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

The number of case studies focusing on hybrid-electric aircraft is steadily increasing, since these configurations are thought to lead to lower operating costs and environmental impact than traditional aircraft. However, due to the lack of reference data of actual hybrid-electric aircraft, in most cases, the design tools and results are difficult to validate. In this paper, two independently developed approaches for hybrid-electric conceptual aircraft design are compared. An existing 19-seat commuter aircraft is selected as the conventional baseline, and both design tools are used to size that aircraft. The aircraft is then re-sized under consideration of hybrid-electric propulsion technology. This is performed for parallel, serial, and fully-electric powertrain architectures. Finally, sensitivity studies are conducted to assess the validity of the basic assumptions and approaches regarding the design of hybrid-electric aircraft. Both methods are found to predict the maximum take-off mass (MTOM) of the reference aircraft with less than 4% error. The MTOM and payload-range energy efficiency of various (hybrid-) electric configurations are predicted with a maximum difference of approximately 2% and 5%, respectively. The results of this study confirm a correct formulation and implementation of the two design methods, and the data obtained can be used by researchers to benchmark and validate their design tools.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationAIAA Scitech 2020 Forum
Subtitle of host publication6-10 January 2020, Orlando, FL
PublisherAmerican Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics Inc. (AIAA)
Number of pages31
ISBN (Electronic)978-1-62410-595-1
ISBN (Print)9781624105951
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2020
EventAIAA Scitech 2020 Forum - Orlando, United States
Duration: 6 Jan 202010 Jan 2020

Publication series

NameAIAA Scitech 2020 Forum
Volume1 PartF

Conference

ConferenceAIAA Scitech 2020 Forum
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityOrlando
Period6/01/2010/01/20

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'A Comparison of Hybrid-Electric Aircraft Sizing Methods'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this