Optimal sizing and operation methodology for the on-board electrical generation and energy recovery system of an aircraft

Abstract

This paper focuses on a novel sizing and operation methodology for the on-board electrical generation and energy recovery system of an aircraft. The proposed operation methodology lies in the optimal management of a hydrogen fuel cell to support on-board power generation and the traction system during taxiing. In addition to the on-board generation system, the operation methodology also contemplates energy recovery by regenerative braking during landing, through the use of reversible electric machines and lithium-ion cells. The sizing methodology allows choosing the optimal number, power and / or capacity of the hydrogen tank, fuel cells, reversible electric machines and lithium-ion cells of which the microgrid is composed. In this sense, the sizing methodology considers technical aspects, such as the on-board energy requirements, sanitary water requirements, available regenerative energy, and weight of all devices, among others. Besides, power conversion structures and control topologies are proposed for the microgrid optimal operation. After simulating the system in the MATLAB environment, it has been verified that the proposed methodology allows reducing the weight of the airplane at takeoff, increasing energy efficiency, which leads to a net savage of 14,070 €/year per aircraft.