A Tool for Modeling and Analysis of Electrified Aircraft Power Systems

Abstract

A variety of electrified aircraft propulsion (EAP) concepts have been proposed to address the economic and environmental challenges faced by the commercial aviation industry. Proper tools are needed in order to answer outstanding questions concerning these concepts, particularly about the electrical power systems that enable them. For instance, questions remain regarding which power system architectures are best for which vehicle, what component modifications will have the greatest return on investment, and how efficient or heavy a given concept power system will be. The Electrical Power System – Simulation and Analysis Tool (EPS-SAT) has been developed in order to answer these questions. Further, EPS-SAT promises to be applicable for power systems in domains beyond EAP, including terrestrial grids, space vehicles, and permanent space installations.