eVTOL Power Distribution With Redundant Paths and Backup Batteries
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Solution Overview
Problem
eVTOL aircrafts face challenges in maintaining power supply during electrical component failures, which can lead to malfunctions and emergency situations.
Innovation Solution
A power generation and distribution system with multiple generators, motors, junction boxes, and backup batteries, featuring redundant pathways and solid-state switches, ensures continuous power supply by providing alternative power sources and redundant paths to motors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple generators and redundant pathways are implemented, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power generation and distribution system is divided into multiple independent generators (first generator, second generator) with separate power pathways. Each generator can independently supply power to motors through dedicated circuits, allowing the system to segment power supply functions to improve reliability while managing complexity through modular architecture
Solution Approach 2:
Backup batteries are integrated into the system in advance to provide predetermined power supply capability. These batteries are positioned to immediately compensate for generator failures, cushioning against power supply interruptions before they affect aircraft operation. The redundant power pathways are pre-configured to activate automatically upon failure detection
2Reliability
If backup batteries and redundant pathways are added, then reliability during emergencies is improved, but weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The backup batteries serve multiple functions: they provide emergency power during generator failure, can supplement power during high-demand operations, and maintain system readiness for immediate emergency response. This multi-functionality justifies the weight addition by maximizing the utility of the backup power system across various operational scenarios
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes power supply parameters by switching between normal operation (generators only), supplemented operation (generators + batteries), and emergency operation (batteries only). The control system adjusts power distribution parameters in real-time based on generator status and aircraft power demands, optimizing the use of backup battery capacity
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
The system ensures reliable power delivery to eVTOL aircrafts even in the event of component failures, enabling safe operation and emergency procedures such as landing.
Implementation Method 1
The generators are driven by a turbine engine to produce electrical power
Implementation Method 2
The motors are configured to drive propellers of the electric aircraft
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A power generation and distribution system for an aircraft includes generators, motors, junction boxes, and backup batteries. The generators are driven by a turbine engine to produce electrical power. The motors are configured to drive propellers of the electric aircraft. One or more of the junction boxes include contactors transitionable between an open position and a closed position. The junction boxes are each configured to selectively provide electrical power from at least one of the generators to at least one of the motors. The backup batteries are configured to provide electrical power to the motors through the plurality of junction boxes to power the plurality of motors for at least a remedial procedure.