Electric Aircraft Engine Retrofit With Integrated Compressor Bleed Air
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Solution Overview
Problem
Retrofitting existing aircraft with electric engines poses challenges in supplying compressed air to systems like anti-ice and environmental control systems without modifying or replacing existing complex systems.
Innovation Solution
An electric aircraft engine with an electric motor, propulsor, and compressor is retrofitted by connecting the electric compressor to existing compressed air connections, utilizing a nacelle to house the motor and compressor, and using power storage devices to power the motor and compressor, thereby supplying compressed air to anti-ice and ECS systems without altering their design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If gas turbine engine is removed and electric engine is installed, then fuel burn and emissions are reduced, but compressed air supply to anti-ice and ECS systems becomes problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The electric compressor is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides compressed air for propulsion systems and simultaneously supplies compressed air to anti-ice and ECS systems through existing connections. This multi-functionality allows the electric engine to replace the gas turbine engine while maintaining all original air supply capabilities without requiring system rework.
2Reliability
If electric compressor is connected to existing compressed air connections, then system functionality is maintained, but integration complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electric compressor is integrated into the nacelle as a separate, modular unit that interfaces with existing aircraft systems through standardized connections. This segmentation allows the electric compressor to be installed independently without requiring complex integration modifications to the aircraft's existing anti-ice and ECS systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The nacelle serves as an intermediary structure that houses the electric compressor and provides the interface between the new electric engine and the existing aircraft systems. It includes mounting structures and connection points that simplify the integration process while maintaining reliable air supply to all connected systems.
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
Enables retrofitting of electric engines in existing aircraft without modifying complex anti-ice and ECS systems, reducing fuel burn, emissions, and noise, while maintaining system functionality.
Implementation Method 1
An electric compressor supplies compressed air
Data Source
AI summary
An electric aircraft engine includes an electric motor driving a propulsor. A power source powers the electric motor. An electric compressor supplies compressed air. A nacelle surrounds the electric motor, the power source and the electric compressor. An aircraft and a method are also disclosed.