Enhancements in conceptual electric aircraft design

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to describe the enhancement of the numerical method for conceptual phase of electric aircraft design.

Design/methodology/approach

The algorithm provides a balance between lift force and weight of the aircraft, together with drag and thrust force equilibrium, while modifying design variables. Wing geometry adjustment, mass correction and performance estimation are performed in an iterative process.

Findings

Aircraft numerical model, which is most often very simplified, has a number of new improvements. This enables to make more accurate analyses and to show relationships between design parameters and aircraft performance.

Practical implications

The presented approach can improve design results.

Originality/value

The new methodology, which includes enhanced numerical models for conceptual design, has not been presented before.

Citation

Mieloszyk, J. and Tarnowski, A. (2019), "Enhancements in conceptual electric aircraft design", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 91 No. 6, pp. 851-856. https://doi.org/10.1108/AEAT-07-2018-0192