Framework for Design Optimization and Control of Hybrid Electric Propulsion Systems

The electrification of propulsion systems marks a pivotal shift in the aerospace industry, driven by the imperative to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on fossil fuels. This work focuses on the design optimization and control of electrified powertrains, specifically through a case study of retrofitting an ATR 72-600 aircraft into a hybrid-electric model. Integrating a battery pack and electric motor alongside its traditional thermal engine aimed at minimizing fuel consumption while maintaining operational efficiency. A comprehensive parametric sizing framework and a detailed analysis of energy and power consumption based on the aircraft’s mission profile were developed. Furthermore, three distinct energy management strategy algorithms were incorporated within an optimization framework to identify the most efficient design and evaluate the impact of each strategy on fuel consumption and overall system performance. The findings offer valuable insights into the future of electrified powertrains, presenting innovative solutions for optimizing hybrid electric solutions.