Distributed and Hybrid Propulsion: A Tailored Design Methodology

A promising evolutionary step in aircraft design is the better integration of multiple aircraft systems to gain synergistic benefits through positive interactions, a strategy which can greatly benefit from advanced forms of distributed propulsion (DP). The primary objectives of DP configurations are to improve energy efficiency, short take-off and landing performance, and reduce noise emissions. Selection of the power transmission method is performed with respect to the DP system and overall aircraft configuration, and can be grouped into the following categories: mechanical, pneumatic, and electrical. DP systems can have a major effect on the aeroelasticity of the aircraft on which they are installed. Digital control in conventional aircraft involves the use of an on-board, full-authority digital engine control system which interprets the pilot’s power request input and adjusts the fuel flow to the engines accordingly.