Periodic Reporting for period 1 - HyPoGA (Feasibility study of a superefficient hybrid power train as a replacement unit for existing engines - Hybrid Power for General Aviation (HyPoGA))
Berichtszeitraum: 2015-05-01 bis 2015-10-31
Worldwide, over 280.000 General Aviation (GA) aircraft are in use (28.000 in Europe) and most aircraft in this engine-power class are operated several hours per day in commercial services. Our market research study showed that also the emerging civil market of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is of very high interest for our power train solution. Combustion engines are designed for the maximum power needed for take-off and climbs (peak-loading), though in cruise flight only approx. 65 % of the power is required. The overall objective of the HyPoGA innovation project is to develop a superefficient, hybridized aircraft engine for mid-sized UAV and smaller GA aircraft by integration of a combustion engine and an electrical engine which will allow a fuel reduction of up to 30%.
Technically, all prerequisites are available and all components have been defined in the feasibility study including a combustion engine, the electrical motor, control software and controlled clutch. The key to a promising configuration is selection of efficient modules. Initial integration of modules has been assessed by computer aided design and has confirmed that a very competitive solution can be developed. It turned out that the main challenges for the full development are engine control including power split as well as power architecture including batteries and supercaps.
Economically, this project is heading towards a promising future because of the reduced fuel consump-tion. Further USPs in the UAV market are very long mission times (due to the fuel efficiency), inherent fail safe capabilities and options for silent operations (electric power only) for a limited time. Sizes and weights of airframes in the UAV market are driven by various factors from which it could be derived that this engine is positioned for maximum attraction in its upcoming growth period.
Strategically, this engine introduces new processes and technical solutions in such a way that each and every solution contributes to an convincing business case for initial introduction of such a hybrid engine while securing a positive foot print in the market place for future rollout of advanced electrical technology.
Technically, all prerequisites are available and all components have been defined in the feasibility study including a combustion engine, the electrical motor, control software and controlled clutch. The key to a promising configuration is selection of efficient modules. Initial integration of modules has been assessed by computer aided design and has confirmed that a very competitive solution can be developed. It turned out that the main challenges for the full development are engine control including power split as well as power architecture including batteries and supercaps.
Economically, this project is heading towards a promising future because of the reduced fuel consump-tion. Further USPs in the UAV market are very long mission times (due to the fuel efficiency), inherent fail safe capabilities and options for silent operations (electric power only) for a limited time. Sizes and weights of airframes in the UAV market are driven by various factors from which it could be derived that this engine is positioned for maximum attraction in its upcoming growth period.
Strategically, this engine introduces new processes and technical solutions in such a way that each and every solution contributes to an convincing business case for initial introduction of such a hybrid engine while securing a positive foot print in the market place for future rollout of advanced electrical technology.
Market research study and analysis: Given the limitations of current power trains for commercial applicationsit is justified to develop hybrid power trains consisting of a combustion engine supported by an electric motor for peak loadings (take off and climb). The envisaged hybrid power train compares well in price, power output and fuel consumption with competitors.
Technological feasibility: The study focused on a 200 kW engine in the beginning. Discussions with experts showed that technical solutions are not easy to reach. System design requirements were looked at carefully on the way to find the right suppliers for single components. The expected fuel savings are up to 30%.
Economic and financial feasibility: A detailed business case was developed showing that a certain production volume needed to reach production break even. In this respect, it was also looked at market entry strategies. The aftersales market becomes more attractive once the first units are already sold. An important milestone will be certification, which can be a demanding process.
Technological feasibility: The study focused on a 200 kW engine in the beginning. Discussions with experts showed that technical solutions are not easy to reach. System design requirements were looked at carefully on the way to find the right suppliers for single components. The expected fuel savings are up to 30%.
Economic and financial feasibility: A detailed business case was developed showing that a certain production volume needed to reach production break even. In this respect, it was also looked at market entry strategies. The aftersales market becomes more attractive once the first units are already sold. An important milestone will be certification, which can be a demanding process.
Strategically, this engine introduces new processes and technical solutions in such a way that each and every solution contributes to an convincing business case for initial introduction of such a hybrid engine while securing a positive foot print in the market place for future rollout of advanced electrical technology.