Conceptual Design of Hybrid Diesel/Electric Propulsion System

Hybrid diesel/electric propulsion system can offer greater flexibility in the design and operation of the system to achieve significant fuel saving. Such systems have been in extensive use for land and ship propulsion. With advances in many enabling technology, the feasibility of extending this propulsion concept to aircraft propulsion is being examined. The technology to be incorporated include high power density engines, electrical machinery based on permanent magnet technology, superconductivity, advanced batteries, high efficiency solar panels, and use of sophisticated power management algorithms. The objective is to extend the flight duration of unmanned aircraft to two weeks. A model will be developed to allow comprehensive evaluation of the trade-off opportunities. A conceptual design of a hybrid propulsion system suitable for use on unmanned aircraft based on presently attainable technology that can attend the longest flight duration will be developed as a baseline case. Feasible enabling technology that can be developed to significantly improve the flight duration will also be identified.