Advances in Electric Aircraft

New electric and hybrid propulsion approaches may not only provide solutions to the urgent problem of environmental impact, but also open up new opportunities. Despite considerable advances in the development of electric aircraft, however, several engineering, operational and regulatory challenges still need to be tackled before such aircraft can be expected to take to the skies. This lecture will provide a broad introduction to the topic of electric aviation, covering the key aspects involved in the development of electric aircraft and the system around them. This will include basic system architecture, electric propulsion, energy storage, design and performance aspects, as well as a brief introduction to operational aspects. As this field is rapidly evolving, the part of the lecture will also be dedicated to discussing recent progress in industry and academia.
1. Introduction to electric aviation
2. System architecture & main components
3. Electric (and hybrid) propulsion
4. Energy storage & performance
5. Design concepts and configurations
6. Dynamics and control aspects
7. Introduction to urban air mobility
8. Operational aspects, costs and certification
9. Additional topics & current developments

After completing the module, students will have acquired a basic understanding of the overall system architecture of electric aircraft and the main components therein contained, especially those differing from the conventional aircraft case, i.e. propulsion systems and energy storage systems. They will also have obtained an overview of the main electric aircraft design concepts developed so far and will be able to apply basic performance assessment methods specifically pertaining to electric aircraft. Furthermore, students will have acquired an appreciation of the potential, opportunities and challenges involved in developing such vehicles.

None required; (basic knowledge of aircraft and electrical engineering is recommended)

(1) Lecture, including a general overview of the theoretical foundations, discussion of relevant applications and presentation of current developments and examples from industry and science. (2) Exercises, incl. calculation examples.

Presentation slides (available for download), blackboard, literature, exercise sheets

to be announced in the lecture

The module will be assessed through a written examination of 90 minutes duration. In the exam, students should be able to demonstrate an understanding of the basic elements involved in (future) electric aircraft design, development and (planned) operations. In addition to the exam, students will be given an optional practical assignment to complete, where they will be able to apply the studied theory independently. Note that depending on student numbers, the written exam may be replaced by an oral one.