Optimization of an Aircraft Power Distribution Subsystem

Abstract

A mathematical optimization problem is formulated to design several components of an electrical power distribution system for next generation aircraft. A simple interconnected system consisting of an input filter and a DC-DC buck converter is used as the prototype for the optimization demonstration. The components are designed for minimum weight subject to performance, stability, and peak voltage constraints. Optimized designs for each of the individual subsystems and for the integrated system are presented. It is shown that there is interaction between the filter design problem and the converter design problem, and that weight improvements can be obtained by considering these interactions. The optimization methodology described enables designers to obtain optimized electric power subsystem designs in a time efficient manner.

Design optimization of passive DC filters for aerospace applications

“…Stability and power quality requirements can be formulated as inequality and equality constraints in (4). Stability constraints in DC power supplies are often imposed by applying the classical Middlebrook criterion [1][2] which requires I Z f II Yz I < lover the entire frequency spectrum. Due to its sufficient but non necessary nature, this criterion usually results in overly conservative results.…”

“…The total filter weight is given by the sum of the weights of its components. Weight variations of passive components can be established from manufacturer's datasheets or via design analysis [1], [6]. Stability and power quality requirements can be formulated as inequality and equality constraints in (4).…”

“…Standard procedures have been described to design passive magnetic components [1], [6]. Without loss of generality, the design of the inductor is assumed to be based on the double-E core geometry shown in Fig.…”

Optimal load management system for Aircraft Electric Power distribution

“…An optimization oriented EPS design methodology following the PBD paradigm was instead proposed in [7]. However, the main focus of both [6] and [7] was on the selection of the generators and the design of the topology, i.e. the interconnection among different EPS components, rather than optimal design of the switching logic for the EPS contactors and load management.…”

“…While several optimization techniques have been reported for the power electronics, switches and converters, the problem of optimizing the overall power distribution system has received scant attention in the literature. In [6], the optimum voltage and power levels at various points of the network are determined to minimize the total weight, installation costs and fuel consumption. An optimization oriented EPS design methodology following the PBD paradigm was instead proposed in [7].…”