Hybrid AC DC Turboelectric Propulsion System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Turboelectric distributed propulsion (TeDP) systems face challenges in thrust modulation and efficiency due to reliance on either AC or DC power distribution, leading to added weight and losses from required power electronics, as well as limited control over flight-control thrust independent of AC generator speed.
Innovation Solution
A propulsion system utilizing both AC and DC power distribution systems, where AC power drives bulk propulsors for primary thrust and DC power drives flight-control propulsors, with a controller managing thrust by controlling rotational speed and motor speed respectively, and incorporating variable pitch or nozzle control for additional modulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If AC power distribution is used to drive propulsors, then electrical power can be delivered to propulsors, but system weight increases and energy losses occur due to required power electronics
Solution Approach 1:
The propulsion system is segmented into multiple independent propulsion units, each with its own power electronics. This allows for localized power conversion and distribution, reducing the need for centralized heavy power electronics infrastructure and improving overall system efficiency by matching power conversion capacity to actual propulsor requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
Power electronics are distributed locally at each propulsor rather than centralized, allowing each unit to have optimized power conversion capacity. This local quality approach reduces total system weight by eliminating redundant power conversion capacity and minimizes energy losses by placing power conversion close to the load.
2Ease of operation
If AC power distribution is used, then bulk thrust can be provided, but control over flight-control thrust independent of AC generator speed is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The propulsion system divides propulsors into separate groups: bulk propulsors driven by AC power for primary thrust, and flight-control propulsors with independent power electronics for precise thrust modulation. This segmentation enables independent control of flight-control thrust from AC generator speed while maintaining overall system coordination.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements dynamic control where flight-control propulsors can independently modulate thrust through variable frequency drives and electronic control, allowing rapid response to flight control demands without being constrained by the rotational speed of the AC generator driving bulk propulsors.
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 approach reduces system weight and losses, provides finer control over flight-control thrust, and enhances operational efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and range compared to AC-only or DC-only systems.
Implementation Method 1
an AC generator configured to produce AC current
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of propulsors configured to receive the AC current from the AC generator and provide thrust based on the AC current
Data Source
AI summary
A propulsion system is described that includes an AC generator configured to produce AC current, and a plurality of propulsors configured to receive the AC current from the AC generator and provide thrust based on the AC current from the AC generator. The propulsion system further includes an AC distribution system configured to deliver a first portion of the AC current to a first group of propulsors from the plurality of propulsors, and a second subsystem configured to deliver a second portion of the AC current to a second group of propulsors from the plurality of propulsors.