Hybrid Multi-Spool Engine Layout With AGB-Coupled Electric Drive
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hybrid electric aircraft propulsion systems face challenges in optimizing the integration of combustion and electric propulsion technologies, particularly in terms of engine architecture and efficiency, which affects environmental and cost benefits.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid multi-spool gas turbine engine design featuring a low-pressure and high-pressure spool with an accessory gearbox (AGB) connected to both spools, incorporating at least one electric motor drivingly engaged to the AGB and the LP shaft, allowing for efficient power distribution and reduced weight by locating the electrical drive system away from the propeller, thereby enhancing engine compactness and performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If the electrical drive system is located near the propeller, then power transmission is direct, but the gearbox is exposed to propeller loads and aerodynamic interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent relocates the electrical drive system from a linear arrangement along the propeller axis to a position in a different spatial dimension (transverse to the propeller axis), allowing the gearbox to be positioned away from the propeller loads while maintaining power transmission effectiveness through the accessory gearbox and electric motor configuration
2Ease of manufacture
If the engine architecture is simplified, then manufacturing is easier, but integration of hybrid electric propulsion is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The accessory gearbox is designed to serve multiple functions: it transmits power from the gas turbine to the electric motor, provides gear reduction, and can drive various accessories. This multi-functionality allows the integration of hybrid electric propulsion without requiring separate dedicated components for each function, thereby simplifying the overall architecture while maintaining versatility
3Weight of moving object
If the electric motor is directly coupled to the propeller, then power transmission efficiency is high, but weight reduction opportunities are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The accessory gearbox acts as an intermediary component between the gas turbine and the electric motor, enabling power transmission with gear reduction. This intermediary allows the electric motor to be positioned optimally for weight reduction while maintaining acceptable power transmission efficiency through the gearbox mechanism
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 design achieves weight savings, reduces engine length, and improves efficiency by shielding the gearbox from propeller loads, offering aerodynamic advantages and flexibility in power output while maintaining engine performance.
Implementation Method 1
electrical energy is converted to rotational energy by an electric motor to drive a rotor
Implementation Method 2
hybrid electric aircraft propulsion systems combine combustion and electric propulsion technologies
Implementation Method 3
combustion and electric propulsion technologies
Data Source
AI summary
A hybrid multi-spool gas turbine engine, has: a LP spool and a HP spool rotatable about a central axis, the LP spool having an LP compressor and an LP turbine engaged to the LP compressor via an LP shaft, the LP shaft engaged to a rotatable load at a first end thereof, the HP spool having an HP turbine and an HP compressor engaged to the HP turbine via a HP shaft; an accessory gearbox (AGB) engaged to both of the LP shaft and the HP shaft and located proximate a second end thereof, the AGB having at least one accessory output drivingly engageable to at least one accessory and at least one input; and at least one electric motor drivingly engaged to the at least one input of the AGB, the at least one electric motor drivingly engaged to the rotatable load via the AGB and the LP shaft.