Fuel cell system as a primary electrical energy supply for aircraft
US8137854B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 13, 2005 |
| Grant date | Mar 20, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 23, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02T90/40
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Apart from electrical energy, nowadays the main engines also supply pneumatic and hydraulic energy to the aircraft, using corresponding media. Apart from mechanical disadvantages this results in reduced engine efficiency in relation to thrust, fuel consumption and weight. According to an embodiment of the present invention an energy supply system for aircraft is provided, comprising a fuel cell arrangement and an electrical energy distribution device. In this way it is possible to replace all the energy generating systems of the engines, which provide energy for the aircraft systems, except for the starter generator, as a result of which the efficiency of the individual engines is improved. Furthermore, the efficiency of onboard energy generation is improved, which in the final analysis results in reduced fuel consumption.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.