Performance Analysis of Mild Hybrid Electric Propulsion in Open Rotor Propulsion Architecture

This study explores the integration of hybridelectric propulsion systems in open rotor propulsion architecture aircraft to reduce fuel consumption and improve efficiency. A dual electric machine, parallel hybrid electric propulsion system was modeled and analyzed, consisting of two interconnected powertrains: one powered by a gas turbine and the other by electricity. The system incorporates energy storage via a battery pack, which stores and releases energy during flight, augmenting shaft power and optimizing fuel use. While the conventional open rotor model aligns with industry expectations, the open rotor hybrid concept results suggest that hybrid-electric propulsion in open rotor systems holds potential for reducing more block fuel consumption and improving operational flexibility. While electrification integration with open rotor shows potential for block fuel savings, comparisons indicate that open rotor architectures built with hybrid systems may offer slightly higher overall benefit than ducted turbofan architectures in similar hybrid configurations.