Distributed propulsion and ultra-high by-pass rotor study at aircraft level

TLDR

Distributed propulsion is examined as a way to provide aircraft motive power while markedly reducing emissions and external noise for future aircraft concepts. The EU Framework 7 DisPURSAL project studies a Distributed Multiple‑Fans Concept and a Propulsive‑Fuselage Concept, both targeting entry into service after 2035. The integrated designs could cut CO₂ emissions by 40–45 % versus a 2000 reference aircraft, and a conventional 2035 gas‑turbine aircraft is projected to reduce CO₂ by 33 %.

Abstract

Abstract This technical article discusses design and integration associated with distributed propulsion as a means of providing motive power with significantly reduced emissions and external noise for future aircraft concepts. The technical work reflects activities performed within a European Commission funded Framework 7 project entitled Distributed Propulsion and Ultra-high By-Pass Rotor Study at Aircraft Level, or, DisPURSAL. In this instance, the approach of distributed propulsion includes a Distributed Multiple-Fans Concept driven by a limited number of engine cores as well as one unique solution that integrates the fuselage with a single propulsor (dubbed Propulsive-Fuselage Concept) – both targeting entry-in-service year 2035+. Compared to a state-of-the-art, year 2000 reference aircraft, designs with tighter coupling between airframe aerodynamics and motive power system performance for medium-to-long-range operations indicated potentially a 40-45% reduction in CO 2 -emissions. An evolutionary, year 2035, conventional morphology gas-turbine aircraft was predicted to be –33% in CO 2 -emissions.