Innovation Exchange challenge: Test Means for Electrical Machines in Aircraft Hybrid Propulsion

To improve fuel consumption and reduce carbon emissions of large airliners, industry is considering the use of electric machines acting as both motors and generators to manage the propulsive energy in aircraft engines, to provide the high thrust needed for take-off with a smaller combustion chamber.

The aircraft industry is also considering full electric propulsion for a wide range of aircraft. As electric motors increase their power rating and efficiency, there is an opportunity for fixed wing and vertical take-off and landing aircraft to fully utilise electric motor based propulsion.

The challenge is to identify the tests means and the test facilities that are available today, and the organisations who have skills and experience, and can support testing and development. Partnership and collaboration with Safran will open the door to future research, exploitation and business opportunities as the regulatory regime for new technology airworthiness is developed. The project is expected to last about 18 months.

Successful applicants will be given an opportunity to pitch to Safran. The package may also include:

• Support from Innovate UK KTN.
• Support in the development of a prototype or pilot.
• Technical support.
• Invitation to attend or present at Innovate UK KTN events.
• A potential business collaboration.
• Investor introductions (if investment is required).
• Support if any Innovate UK or similar competitions are relevant.
• Networking to other solution providers and users of Power Electronics Machines and Drives via the Driving the Electric Revolution challenge.

Entrants to this competition are expected to be established businesses, test houses, academic institutions, startups, SMEs or individual entrepreneurs, and must be UK-based or have the intention to set up a UK base.

For full functional and technical requirements, visit the Innovation Exchange site at the link below.