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Article
Publication date: 30 January 2007

Alexander Bolonkin

The paper seeks to propose and analyze a new electrostatic ramjet space engine.

1143

Abstract

Purpose

The paper seeks to propose and analyze a new electrostatic ramjet space engine.

Design/methodology/approach

The upper atmosphere (85‐1,000 km) is extremely dense in ions (millions per cubic cm). The interplanetary medium contains positive protons from the solar wind. A charged ball collects the ions (protons) from the surrounding area and a special electric engine accelerates the ions to achieve thrust or decelerates the ions to achieve drag. The thrust may have a magnitude of several Newtons. If the ions are decelerated, the engine produces a drag and generates electrical energy. The theory of the new engine is developed.

Findings

It is shown that the proposed engine driven by a solar battery (or other energy source) cannot only support satellites in their orbit for a very long time but can also work as a launcher of space apparatus. The latter capability includes launch to high orbit, to the Moon, to far space, or to the Earth's atmosphere (as a return thruster for space apparatus or as a killer of space debris). The proposed ramjet is very useful in interplanetary trips to far planets because it can simultaneously produce thrust or drag and large electric energy using the solar wind.

Originality/value

Two scenarios, launch into the upper Earth atmosphere and an interplanetary trip, are simulated and the results illustrate the excellent possibilities of the new concept.

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, vol. 79 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0002-2667

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 30 September 2014

C. Pornet, S. Kaiser, A.T. Isikveren and M. Hornung

The aim of this paper is to assess the potential of fuel-battery hybrid narrow-body (180PAX) transport aircraft according to different design ranges for an entry-into-service…

1158

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to assess the potential of fuel-battery hybrid narrow-body (180PAX) transport aircraft according to different design ranges for an entry-into-service (EIS) of 2035.

Design/methodology/approach

The philosophy used in the design of the twin-engine fuel-battery hybrid concept is to use the power of an electric motor during cruise to drive a single propulsive device, whereas the other one is powered conventionally by an advanced gas turbine. A methodology for the sizing and performance assessment of hybrid energy aircraft was previously proposed by the authors. Based on this methodology, the overall sizing effects at aircraft level are considered to size the hybrid aircraft to different range applications. To evaluate the hybrid concept, performance was contrasted against a conventional aircraft projected to EIS 2035 and sized for identical requirements. Additionally, sensitivity of the prospects against different battery technology states was analysed.

Findings

The best suited aircraft market for the application of the fuel-battery hybrid transport aircraft concept considered is the regional segment. Under the assumption of a battery-specific energy of 1.5 kWh/kg, block fuel reduction up to 20 per cent could be achieved concurrently with a gate-to-gate neutral energy consumption compared to an advanced gas-turbine aircraft. However, a large increase in maximum take-off weight (MTOW) occurs resulting from battery weight, the additional electrical system weight, and the cascading sizing effects. It strongly counteracts the benefit of the hybrid-electric propulsion technology used in this concept for lower battery-specific energy and for longer design ranges.

Practical implications

The findings will contribute to the evaluation of the feasibility and impact of hybrid energy transport aircraft as potential key enablers of the European and US aeronautical program goals towards 2035.

Originality/value

The paper draws its value from the consideration of the overall sizing effects at aircraft level and in particular the impact of the hybrid-electric propulsion system to investigate the prospects of fuel-battery hybrid narrow-body transport aircraft sized at different design ranges.

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology: An International Journal, vol. 86 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0002-2667

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 22 May 2007

Alexander Bolonkin

This paper aims to suggest and research a revolutionary method‐transfer of electricity in outer Space with distance of hundreds of millions kilometers by ultra‐cool plasma cables.

2396

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to suggest and research a revolutionary method‐transfer of electricity in outer Space with distance of hundreds of millions kilometers by ultra‐cool plasma cables.

Design/methodology/approach

Methods of the plasma and electricity physic are used for research.

Findings

Theory of plasma cable transferring is offered, developed and its possibilities researched.

Research limitations/implications

This method uses a high voltage electricity and plasma source (accelerator).

Practical implications

Offers conclusions from the research of a revolutionary new idea‐transferring electric energy in the hard vacuum of outer space wirelessly, using a plasma power cord as an electric cable (wire). He computed the macroprojects: transference of hundreds kilowatts of energy to Earth's Space Station, transferring energy to the Moon or back, transferring energy to a spaceship at distance 100 million of kilometers, the transfer energy to Mars when one is located at opposite side of the distant Sun, transfer colossal energy from one of Earth's continents to another continent (for example, between Europe – USA) wirelessly – using Earth's ionosphere as cable, using Earth as gigantic storage of electric energy, using the plasma ring as huge MagSail for moving of spaceships.

Originality/value

The paper provides information on a revolutionary method for the transfer of electricity in outer space.

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, vol. 79 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0002-2667

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 30 September 2014

C. Pornet, S. Kaiser and C. Gologan

The aim of the paper is to establish the COst-Specific Air Range (COSAR) as a new figure-of-merit based on the cost of energy to optimise the flight profile of a hybrid energy

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of the paper is to establish the COst-Specific Air Range (COSAR) as a new figure-of-merit based on the cost of energy to optimise the flight profile of a hybrid energy aircraft.

Design/methodology/approach

After reviewing the expression and the application of the specific air range (SAR) and of the energy-specific air range (ESAR), the need of a new figure-of-merit for flight technique optimisation of hybrid energy aircraft is motivated. Based on the specific cost of the energies consumed, the mathematical expression of COSAR is derived. To enable optimum economics operations, a cost index (CI) derivation is introduced for a variety of hybrid-electric concepts to consider the additional time-related cost. The application of COSAR and of the CI is demonstrated for cruise optimisation of a hybrid-electric retrofit aircraft concept.

Findings

As a consequence of the consumption of multiple energy sources in a hybrid aircraft, optimisation according to the objective functions SAR and ESAR leads to minimum in-flight CO2 emissions and minimum energy consumption for a given stage length. While the optimisation of a single energy source aircraft according to these figures-of-merit directly results in minimum energy cost for a given unit range, this statement is no longer true for hybrid-energy aircraft. Consequently, introducing a new figure-of-merit established on the specific cost of the energies consumed enables flight technique optimisation for minimum energy cost of hybrid-energy aircraft. Additionally, the related time-cost is taken into account by means of a CI definition for minimum operating cost.

Practical implications

COSAR may serve as an alternative to SAR used today as the standard figure-of-merit for fuel optimised flight profile. Using COSAR and the CI allow airlines to adapt the flight profiles of hybrid-energy aircraft fleets according to the energy market price and their related cost of time to determine optimum economical flight profile.

Originality/value

Using COSAR as a figure-of-merit, the flight profile of hybrid energy aircraft can be optimised for minimum energy cost. Time-related costs are considered for optimum operating economics by utilisation of the CI definition for hybrid energy aircraft.

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology: An International Journal, vol. 86 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0002-2667

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 30 September 2014

Christopher Perullo and Dimitri Mavris

The purpose of this study is to examine state-of-the-art in hybrid-electric propulsion system modeling and suggest new methodologies for sizing such advanced concepts. Many…

1299

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine state-of-the-art in hybrid-electric propulsion system modeling and suggest new methodologies for sizing such advanced concepts. Many entities are involved in the modelling and design of hybrid electric aircraft; however, the highly multidisciplinary nature of the problem means that most tools focus heavily on one discipline and over simplify others to keep the analysis reasonable in scope. Correctly sizing a hybrid-electric system requires knowledge of aircraft and engine performance along with a working knowledge of electrical and energy storage systems. The difficulty is compounded by the multi-timescale dynamic nature of the problem. Furthermore, the choice of energy management in a hybrid electric system presents multiple degrees of freedom, which means the aircraft sizing problem now becomes not just a root-finding exercise, but also a constrained optimization problem.

Design/methodology/approach

The hybrid electric vehicle sizing problem can be sub-divided into three areas: modelling methods/fidelity, energy management and optimization technique. The literature is reviewed to find desirable characteristics and features of each area. Subsequently, a new process for sizing a new hybrid electric aircraft is proposed by synthesizing techniques from model predictive control and detailed conceptual design modelling. Elements from model predictive control and concurrent optimization are combined to formulate a new structure for the optimization of the sizing and energy management of future aircraft.

Findings

While the example optimization formulation provided is specific to a hybrid electric concept, the proposed structure is general enough to be adapted to any vehicle concept which contains multiple degrees of control freedom that can be optimized continuously throughout a mission.

Originality/value

The proposed technique is novel in its application of model predictive control to the conceptual design phase.

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology: An International Journal, vol. 86 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0002-2667

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 January 2006

Pascal Mognol, Denis Lepicart and Nicolas Perry

To discuss integration of the rapid prototyping environmental aspects with the primary focus on electrical energy consumption.

3121

Abstract

Purpose

To discuss integration of the rapid prototyping environmental aspects with the primary focus on electrical energy consumption.

Design/methodology/approach

Various manufacturing parameters have been tested on three rapid prototyping systems: Thermojet (3DS), FDM 3000 (Stratasys) and EOSINT M250 Xtended (EOS). The objective is to select sets of parameters for reduction of electrical energy consumption. For this, a part is manufactured in several orientations and positions in the chamber of these RP systems. For each test, the electrical power is noted. Finally, certain rules are proposed to minimize this electrical energy consumption during a job.

Findings

It is important to minimize the manufacturing time but there is no general rule for optimization of electrical energy consumption. Each RP system must be tested with energy consumption considerations under the spotlight.

Research limitations/implications

The work is only based on rapid prototyping processes. The objective is to take into consideration the complete life‐cycle of a rapid prototyped part: manufacturing of raw material as far as reprocessing of waste.

Practical implications

Reduction of electrical energy consumption to complete a job.

Originality/value

Currently, environmental aspects are not well studied in rapid prototyping.

Details

Rapid Prototyping Journal, vol. 12 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1355-2546

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 11 June 2018

Francesco De Luca, Raimo Simson, Hendrik Voll and Jarek Kurnitski

Electric lighting accounts for a large share of energy consumption in commercial buildings. Utilization of daylight can significantly help to reduce the need for artificial…

Abstract

Purpose

Electric lighting accounts for a large share of energy consumption in commercial buildings. Utilization of daylight can significantly help to reduce the need for artificial lighting, increase workers productivity, customers’ satisfaction and consequently improve sales. However, excessive use of glazing and absence of lighting controls can contribute greatly to higher energy need for heating and cooling and cause undesired glare effects. Thus, optimizing the size, position and materials of external glazing, with the addition of deflectors and dynamic artificial lighting, can become key aspects in the design of sustainable low energy buildings. The purpose of this paper is to analyze daylight potential and energy performance of a hall-type commercial building, situated in the cold climate of Finland, by utilizing different combinations of skylights, windows and lighting controls.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors have used computer simulations to estimate daylight and energy performance of a single floor commercial building in relation to various combinations of skylights and windows with variable glazing materials, light deflectors and zonal lighting controls.

Findings

The results show that electric light energy saving potential ranges from a negligible 1.9 percent to a significant 58.6 percent in the case of glass skylights and wall windows using multi-zone lighting control. Total delivered energy ranges between increase of 1.5 and 21.2 percent in the cases with single zone lighting control and between decrease of 4.5 percent and increase of 4.5 percent in the cases with multi-zone control. The highest decrease in primary energy consumption was 2.2 percent for single zone and 17.6 percent for multi-zone lighting control. The research underlines the significant potential of electric light energy savings using daylighting strategies that, including the control of direct solar access for glare and internal gains, can be more than 50 percent.

Originality/value

This research combines accurate daylight and energy assessment for commercial hall buildings based in cold climate region with multiple design variations. The novelty of this work is the consideration of interior elements, shelves and deflectors, in the calculations. This is made possible through the combined use of validated simulation platforms for detailed annual daylighting and electric lighting calculation (Radiance and Daysim) and energy analysis (IDA-ICE, Equa Simulation AB). This method allows to obtain a reliable assessment of the potential of using natural light sources in buildings.

Details

Management of Environmental Quality: An International Journal, vol. 29 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1477-7835

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 October 2002

John A. Bryant and Kimberly Carlson

Engineers at the Energy Systems Laboratory at Texas A&M University conducted short term energy metering studies at a complex of offices in northern Texas and several buildings on…

1312

Abstract

Engineers at the Energy Systems Laboratory at Texas A&M University conducted short term energy metering studies at a complex of offices in northern Texas and several buildings on the Texas A&M University campus. These studies typically consisted of installing electrical metering at the whole building level and included sub‐metering of selected circuits when possible. A staged shut‐down sequence was performed for all lighting, fan, and mechanical systems of interest in the facility. Lighting system load verification was the primary goal. The study was a follow‐up to an earlier lighting study that had been conducted by the campus energy office. Base electrical load data were also determined from these tests, and in both studies significant “base” electrical loads were found. This paper presents results of these studies and suggests that the method is attractive to both contractors and facility energy managers as well.

Details

Facilities, vol. 20 no. 10
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0263-2772

Keywords

Book part
Publication date: 8 November 2019

Tatsiana Zoryna

In this chapter, characteristic of the fuel and energy sector of Republic of Belarus; its organizational structure; the current state of development of power, gas, peat, and oil…

Abstract

In this chapter, characteristic of the fuel and energy sector of Republic of Belarus; its organizational structure; the current state of development of power, gas, peat, and oil industries are given. The energy balance of the country and the main power streams is analyzed. Characteristic of key indicators of energy security is presented. The main threats connected with ensuring energy security of Republic of Belarus are allocated. In particular, the characteristic of the directions of reducing the energy dependence of the Republic of Belarus on the supply of natural gas from the Russian Federation is presented. Dynamics of power consumption of GDP is analyzed. Potential of use of renewable and local energy resources, complexity and prospect of their further integration into the Belarusian power system are considered. The prospects of development of nuclear power of Republic of Belarus are described. The advantages and disadvantages connected with input of the Belarusian nuclear power plant in operation are designated. The perspective directions of sustainable power development of Republic of Belarus till 2035 are revealed.

Book part
Publication date: 17 October 2022

Stefania Boglietti, Martina Carra, Massimiliano Sotgiu, Benedetto Barabino, Michela Bonera and Giulio Maternini

Nowadays, the increase in the capacity of batteries has laid the foundations for a broader diffusion of electric mobility. However, electric mobility is causing a growing

Abstract

Nowadays, the increase in the capacity of batteries has laid the foundations for a broader diffusion of electric mobility. However, electric mobility is causing a growing electricity demand as well as the need to increase the diffusion of suitable charging stations. Within these last challenges, drawing on the recent literature, this chapter provides a critical and wide-ranging review of papers dealing with the formulation of the problem of the localisation of electric vehicle (EV) charging points. This problem is approached considering the electric charging infrastructure technologies, localisation criteria and related methodologies. This review shows how the ‘electric mobility revolution’ applies the technological innovations provided by the energy supply systems, and the location of these systems within the urban contexts. Since the technological innovations have different options, achieving an international standard of charging systems is still far away. Moreover, as there are several criteria, parameters and methodologies, and some analytical approaches for the localisation of electric vehicle charging points, the formulation of the ‘localisation’ problem should require the application of multi-criteria analysis to be addressed. Finally, the results show that there is no consensus on technologies, criteria, and methodologies to be adopted. Therefore, this wide-ranging analysis of the literature would be useful to support possible benchmarking and systematisation accordingly.

Details

Electrifying Mobility: Realising a Sustainable Future for the Car
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-83982-634-4

Keywords

1 – 10 of over 27000