"The work performed during this project was to develop the following innovative components:
• A new HVDC platform based on the modular concept with reusable component for future design.
This platform was designed around reusable technologic bricks in order to build any electrical architecture reducing cost design.
• A new range of HVDC contactors with a power up to 40kW
This new components allows to operate electrical commutation with high reliability (number of cycle and high overload capability).
The main topic to address in HVDC contactor switching is to avoid propagating a fire if the electrical arc is not well managed.This topic has been addressed by safety analysis leading to use a failsafe design.
With the rising demand for electrical energy in an aircraft using HVDC network, it increases the probability of occurrence of an arc fault. New protection devices such as arc fault detectors were also addressed in addition to the project.
• Adapted sensors for IT grounding system to cover failures and protect persons
The challenge was to design a robust and accurate system to measure leakage current to the chassis, that allows to increase safety and aircraft availability.
The system also allows to inform the maintenance crew to keep the system integrity.
The demonstrator provided the following benefits:
• Weight saving, (over 15%)
• Volume reduction, (over 20%)
• Reduced Development Time. (over 65%)
These figures were obtained by comparing data of ""previous"" design equipment with the same equipment based on modular technology and HVDC components."
