Aircraft Power Module Connector for Fast Ground Exchange
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current aircraft propulsion systems face challenges in efficient energy source integration and safe, rapid swapping of power systems during ground operations, particularly in hybrid-electric and all-electric aircraft, which hinders quick turnaround times and maintenance efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising an electric energy module and a connector module that allows for secure attachment and disengagement from the aircraft, enabling easy removal and replacement of power systems while on the ground, using a movable member and actuator to transition between engaged and disengaged positions, and a ground service vehicle for efficient charging and system swapping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional integrated power system is used in aircraft, then structural integrity and reliability are improved, but maintenance time and ground turnaround time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The power system is divided into separable modules (electric machine, electric energy module, connector module) that can be independently removed and replaced. The connector module serves as an interface that allows the electric energy module to be detached from the aircraft while maintaining electrical connections during operation, enabling rapid swap-out without compromising system reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables rapid replacement of the electric energy module by disconnecting it via the connector module during ground operations. Used modules can be quickly removed and replaced with charged modules, while removed modules are recovered for recharging, thereby reducing ground turnaround time while maintaining operational reliability through module reuse.
2Reliability
If the electric energy module is permanently integrated into the aircraft, then connection reliability is improved, but ease of maintenance and charging efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The connector module provides a dynamic connection system that transitions between engaged and disengaged states. When engaged, it ensures reliable electrical connections; when disengaged, it allows easy removal of the electric energy module for charging or maintenance. This dynamic capability resolves the contradiction between permanent integration for reliability and ease of operation for maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector module acts as an intermediary between the electric energy module and the aircraft structure. It provides reliable electrical connections when engaged, yet enables easy disconnection and removal when needed for charging or maintenance, thus mediating between the conflicting requirements of connection reliability and operational ease.
3Power
If multiple heavy conductors are used to connect the electric machine to the electric energy module, then power transmission capability is improved, but device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple conductors are bundled together within a single conductor module that is integrated into the connector assembly. This merging approach maintains the power transmission capability of multiple heavy conductors while reducing the apparent complexity by organizing them into a unified structure that moves as a single unit during engagement and disengagement operations.
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
This solution enables rapid recharging and swapping of power systems, reducing time on the ground and simplifying maintenance by allowing for quick disengagement and re-engagement of power systems, improving aircraft readiness and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the electrical connector is sized to charge the electric energy module when connected to an electric power source
Implementation Method 2
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
AI summary
A system for an aircraft includes an electric energy module and a connector module operatively connected to the electric energy module. The connector module is: structured to attach the electric energy module to the aircraft when the connector module is in an engaged mode while in use, and operable between the engaged mode and a disengaged mode. The connector module in the disengaged mode while in use disengages the electric energy module from the aircraft.