New models to support electrical networks of next-generation aircraft
Newer design concepts for both commercial and military aircraft feature 230 Volt alternating current (VAC) or 270 VAC distribution for a variety of reasons. However, the 115 VAC standard has not changed much in the last 50 years and most aircraft have similar electrical generation and distribution systems. The EU-funded VIEERC (Virtual integration of electrical equipment and rig correlation) conducted verification and validation studies, ensuring that models and simulations are correct and reliable. The focus was on aircraft development within the Clean Sky System for Green Operations (SGO) framework. SGO is working on aircraft systems that contribute to aviation environmental objectives. A key component is all-electric aircraft equipment system architectures. VIEERC exploited the Saber suite, a proven platform for power system modelling and simulation leading to design validation and optimisation. Simulation results were compared to those from tests on an Airbus test rig. Using the new Saber models, the project team was able to evaluate the performance of a power distribution system focusing on power quality, voltage drops and busbar transfer. New models and integrated test benches developed within the Clean Sky framework will be highly useful for simulating the behaviour of integrated equipment and evaluating the performance of high-voltage, direct current networks in the future. All-electric aircraft are expected to significantly reduce noise and carbon dioxide emissions associated with air transport while enhancing performance and safety. VIEERC made an important contribution to this effort with a new modelling and simulation platform that addresses the power systems associated with the new generation of aircraft.
Keywords
Electrical networks, all-electric aircraft, electrical equipment, VIEERC, simulation platform
