Hybrid Aircraft Battery Parameter Updates for Propulsion Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aircraft batteries in hybrid electric aircraft have a limited life expectancy of two to three years due to degradation, necessitating frequent replacements, while the aircraft itself has a service life of thirty years, leading to performance disparities over time.
Innovation Solution
A power management system that allows for the selective recharging of batteries during ground operations and the execution of optimization algorithms using updated tuning parameters to control aircraft performance, enabling the use of repeatedly replaced batteries and improving fuel efficiency and life cycle costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If batteries are replaced every two to three years due to degradation, then battery performance is maintained, but system complexity and operational disruptions increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by recharging batteries during ground operations before they are fully depleted. The power management system monitors battery state of charge and initiates recharging sequences during taxiing, parking, or other ground-based operations, preventing complete discharge and extending battery life without requiring frequent replacements
Solution Approach 2:
The system ensures continuity of useful action by maintaining battery charge levels through opportunistic recharging during ground operations. Instead of allowing batteries to deplete completely and requiring replacement, the system continuously top-ups battery charge during available ground time, extending operational life and reducing replacement frequency
2Duration of action of stationary object
If battery capacity is increased to extend life, then battery life is extended, but weight and size restrictions are violated
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic action by recharging batteries in intervals during ground operations rather than relying on a single large battery capacity. The power management system periodically monitors battery state of charge and initiates recharging sequences during taxiing, parking, or other ground-based operations, extending effective battery life without increasing weight
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies dynamics by adapting battery recharging strategies based on real-time operational conditions. The power management system dynamically adjusts recharging sequences based on battery state of charge, aircraft operational status, and ground operation availability, optimizing battery life extension without requiring fixed increases in battery capacity
Data Source
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AI summary
A hybrid propulsion update system includes a controller (216) in signal communication with a replaceable battery (250). The controller (216) includes a tuning parameters storage unit (219) configured to store at least one tuning parameter corresponding to the replaceable battery (250). The controller is configured to execute at least one optimization algorithm that utilizes the tuning parameters to control operation of the hybrid electric aircraft (200) according to a first performance. The tuning parameters storage unit (219) is configured to receive at least one updated tuning parameter from a controller updating device (300). The controller executes the at least one optimization algorithm that utilizes the at least one updated tuning parameter such that the hybrid electric aircraft operates according to a second performance that improves upon the first performance.