Aircraft Energy Module Connector for Fast Battery Swapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need to improve aircraft propulsion systems, particularly in terms of energy source integration and safety, including efficient handling of electric power systems during ground operations such as recharging and swapping out power systems between flights.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising an electric energy module and a connector module that allows for the attachment and detachment of the electric energy module to/from the aircraft, with a movable member and actuator to transition between engaged and disengaged modes, enabling efficient charging and swapping of power systems using gravity-assisted removal and connection to ground service vehicles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the electric energy module is permanently integrated into the aircraft, then the propulsion system reliability is improved, but the maintenance time and operational flexibility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The propulsion system is divided into separable modules: the electric energy module (battery pack) can be independently removed from the aircraft using the connector module, allowing rapid replacement of depleted or faulty energy modules without affecting the electric machine or propulsion system integrity, thus reducing maintenance time while maintaining reliability through modular replacement
Solution Approach 2:
The connector module enables dynamic change in the operational state of the electric energy module, transitioning between engaged (connected) and disengaged (removed) states. This parameter change allows the system to switch between permanent integration and temporary separation, optimizing both reliability during operation and maintenance efficiency during ground operations
2Stability of the object's composition
If the electric energy module is permanently integrated into the aircraft, then the propulsion system stability is improved, but the adaptability for different energy sources deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connector module is designed with universal compatibility to accommodate different types of electric energy modules (e.g., lithium-ion batteries, hydrogen fuel cells, ultracapacitors). The standardized interface allows the same connector module to securely attach various energy source types to the aircraft, enabling multi-functionality and adaptability while maintaining stable propulsion system operation
Solution Approach 2:
The connector module provides dynamic adaptability by enabling the aircraft to switch between different energy source configurations during ground operations. The movable member and actuator allow the system to transition between different engaged states, accommodating varying energy module types and configurations while maintaining stable electrical connections during flight
3Reliability
If the connector module uses complex locking mechanisms to ensure secure attachment, then the connection reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector module replaces complex mechanical locking mechanisms with an electro-mechanical actuation system. The actuator (electric motor, hydraulic, or pneumatic) automatically controls the movable member to engage and disengage the connector, substituting manual or complex mechanical operations with automated control, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining secure attachment through controlled actuation forces
4Ease of operation
If the electric energy module is positioned for easy removal, then the ease of operation is improved, but the safety during operation may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The connector module serves as an intermediary safety mechanism between the electric energy module and the aircraft electrical system. During removal, the movable member controlled by the actuator systematically disengages electrical contacts and mechanical attachment points, ensuring that connections are safely broken before the module is fully removed. This intermediary control mechanism enables easy operation while preventing unsafe electrical disconnection or damage to the propulsion system
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Facilitates efficient recharging and swapping of power systems on the ground, reducing maintenance time and improving safety by allowing for quick disconnection and connection of electric energy modules, thus enhancing aircraft operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the electric energy module is positioned relative to the aircraft such that when the connector module is in the disengaged mode and the aircraft is stationary on a ground, gravity acts on the electric energy module to move the electric energy module toward the horizontal ground
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 4~5
AI summary
A system for an aircraft (1) comprises an electric energy module (108) and a connector module (114c) operatively connected to the electric energy module (108). The connector module (114c) is structured to attach the electric energy module (108) to the aircraft (1) when the connector module (114c) is in an engaged mode while in use, and operable between the engaged mode and a disengaged mode, the connector module (114c) being in the disengaged mode while in use disengaging the electric energy module (108) from the aircraft (1).