Project-1: Powertrain for aircraft in runways

Project 1:  Powertrain for aircraft in runways

 

Aim: - 

 

Part A:

1. Search and list out the total weight of various types of aircraft. 

2. Is there any difference between ground speed and air speed?

3. Why is it not recommended to use aircraft engine power to move it to the ground at the Airport? 

4. How is an aircraft pushed to the runway when it’s ready to take off?

5. Learn about take-off power, Tyre design, rolling resistance, Tyre pressure, brake forces when landing.                                                                                

Part B:

6. A. With necessary assumptions, calculate the force and power required to push / pull an aircraft by a towing vehicle. 

    B. Develop the model for the calculated force and power using Simulink.

7. A. Design an electric powertrain with type of motor, it’s power rating, and energy requirement to fulfill aircraft towing application in Simulink. Estimate the duty cycle range to control the aircraft speed from zero to highest. Make all required assumptions. Prepare a table of assumed parameters. Draw a block diagram of powertrain. 

(Hint: DC7 Block)

    B. Also, Design the parameters in excel sheet.

 

Solution: -

 

Part A:

 

1. List out the total weight of various types of aircraft.

 

Introduction:

When we talk about airplanes and helicopters, one important thing to know is how much they weigh. Aircraft come in all shapes and sizes, and their weight affects how they fly and what they can do. Before we go into more details about how much different types of aircraft weigh, let's first understand what aircraft weight means.

 

Definition:

Aircraft Weight: In simple terms, aircraft weight is how heavy an airplane or helicopter is. It includes everything on the aircraft, like the body of the plane, the engines, the fuel, the people inside, and any stuff they're carrying. Knowing how much an aircraft weighs is really important because it decides how it takes off, how it flies, and how much fuel it needs. It's a big deal for engineers, pilots, and anyone interested in aircraft because it helps us understand how these flying machines work.

 

Here are the categories of aircraft with their weights and definitions:

 

1. Light Aircraft:

 

   - Light Sport Aircraft (LSA): 

 

• These small, recreational planes typically weigh between 600 to 1,320 pounds (270 to 600 kilograms).

• Light Sport Aircraft are small, easy-to-fly planes designed for leisure pilots. They are lightweight and have simplified regulations for recreational flying.

 

   - Single-Engine Piston Aircraft: 

• These small planes with one propeller engine usually weigh between 1,500 to 6,000 pounds (680 to 2,720 kilograms).

• Single-engine piston aircraft are versatile and often used for personal travel, flight training, and short-distance transportation.

 

2. General Aviation Aircraft:

   - Small Multi-Engine Piston Aircraft: 

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• These planes with multiple engines weigh between 2,000 to 8,000 pounds (900 to 3,600 kilograms).

• Small multi-engine piston aircraft are suitable for short to medium-range flights and can carry more passengers and cargo than single-engine planes.

   - Turboprop Aircraft: 

• Turboprop aircraft typically weigh between 6,000 to 15,000 pounds (2,720 to 6,800 kilograms) and use turbine engines.

• Turboprop aircraft are known for their efficiency and are used for regional travel, combining the speed of jets with the versatility of propellers.

 

   - Light Business Jets: 

• These small business jets weigh between 10,000 to 20,000 pounds (4,500 to 9,000 kilograms).

• Light business jets are designed for corporate travel, offering speed and comfort for short to medium-haul flights.

 

3. Regional and Commercial Aircraft:

   - Regional Jets: 

• These planes for short-haul flights weigh between 30,000 to 80,000 pounds (13,600 to 36,300 kilograms).

• Regional jets are used for connecting cities within a specific region, typically seating fewer passengers than larger commercial jets.

 

   - Narrow-Body Commercial Jets (e.g., Boeing 737, Airbus A320): 

• These medium-sized jets weigh between 100,000 to 200,000 pounds (45,400 to 90,700 kilograms).

• Narrow-body commercial jets are versatile and commonly used for domestic and short international flights.

 

   - Wide-Body Commercial Jets (e.g., Boeing 777, Airbus A350): 

• These large jets weigh between 300,000 to 1,000,000 pounds (136,000 to 454,000 kilograms).

• Wide-body commercial jets are built for long-haul international flights and can carry a significant number of passengers.

 

4. Cargo Aircraft:

   - Medium Cargo Aircraft (e.g., Boeing 767F): 

• These cargo planes weigh between 200,000 to 400,000 pounds (90,700 to 181,400 kilograms).

• Medium cargo aircraft are used for transporting cargo over medium distances.

 

   - Large Cargo Aircraft (e.g., Boeing 747-8F): 

• These heavy cargo planes weigh between 600,000 to 987,000 pounds (272,000 to 448,000 kilograms).

• Large cargo aircraft are designed for long-haul cargo transport and can carry substantial loads.

2.  Is there any difference between ground speed and air speed?

There is a significant difference between ground speed and air speed. These two terms are fundamental in aviation and are used to describe an aircraft's speed in different contexts:

1. Ground Speed:

• Ground speed refers to the actual speed of an aircraft relative to the ground. It is the speed at which the aircraft is moving over the Earth's surface, taking into account factors such as wind. Ground speed is measured in units like knots (nautical miles per hour) or miles per hour (mph).

• Calculation: Ground speed is the result of adding or subtracting the aircraft's airspeed to or from the wind speed. If an aircraft is flying at an airspeed of 200 knots and there is a headwind of 20 knots, its ground speed will be 180 knots (200 - 20).

• Ground speed is essential for navigation, flight planning, and determining the time it will take to reach a destination. It is the speed that matters to passengers because it affects the duration of the flight.

2. Airspeed:

•  Airspeed refers to the speed of an aircraft relative to the air surrounding it. It is the speed at which air molecules pass over the aircraft's wings, and it is crucial for controlling the aircraft's flight characteristics. Airspeed is also measured in units like knots or miles per hour.

• Calculation: Airspeed is typically measured using an airspeed indicator in the cockpit. It provides the pilot with information about the aircraft's speed through the air mass.

• Airspeed is vital for flight operations, especially for maintaining the aircraft's stability and safety. Different types of airspeed, such as indicated airspeed, calibrated airspeed, and true airspeed, are used in aviation for specific purposes.

In summary, ground speed and air speed are distinct concepts in aviation. Ground speed is the aircraft's speed relative to the ground, accounting for wind effects, and is relevant for flight planning and navigation. Airspeed is the aircraft's speed relative to the air and is crucial for controlling the aircraft's flight performance and safety. Both values are essential for safe and efficient flying, but they serve different purposes.

3. Why is it not recommended to use aircraft engine power to move it to the ground at the Airport? 

Ground operations at airports are a complex dance of precision and efficiency. Aircraft, often weighing several tons, must be maneuvered safely on the ground, from the runway to the gate and vice versa. However, the means by which these heavy machines are moved can significantly impact various aspects of aviation, including fuel efficiency, environmental sustainability, safety, and maintenance costs. One approach that has gained prominence in addressing these concerns is the use of tow vehicles and other ground support equipment, as opposed to relying on the aircraft's own engines for ground movement.

 

1. Fuel Efficiency and Cost Savings:

   Aircraft engines are engineered for optimal efficiency during flight, not ground operations. Running these engines on the ground consumes a substantial amount of fuel, which translates to higher operating costs for airlines. Tow vehicles, on the other hand, are specifically designed for efficient ground movement. They use significantly less fuel, resulting in cost savings for airlines and reduced carbon emissions, thus aligning with the industry's sustainability goals.

 

2. Reduced Engine Wear and Maintenance Costs:

   Aircraft engines are expensive assets that require regular maintenance and have limited lifespans. Excessive use on the ground accelerates wear and tear, leading to higher maintenance costs and more frequent engine replacements. Tow vehicles and tugs are built to withstand the rigors of ground movement, mitigating the impact on aircraft engines. This translates into longer engine lifetimes and reduced maintenance expenditures, providing airlines with substantial economic benefits.

 

3. Mitigating Noise Pollution:

   Aircraft engines are notoriously loud, particularly during takeoff and high-power ground operations. The roar of engines can contribute to noise pollution at airports, affecting the well-being of airport staff and neighboring communities. Using tow vehicles and other ground support equipment significantly reduces noise pollution on the airport ramp and taxiways, fostering a quieter and more pleasant airport environment.

 

4. Environmental Sustainability:

   Reducing emissions is a key goal in the aviation industry's pursuit of environmental sustainability. Aircraft engines emit pollutants, including greenhouse gases, when running. Minimizing engine use on the ground by relying on tow vehicles and auxiliary power units (APUs) helps curb emissions, contributing to a greener aviation industry. This aligns with global efforts to reduce the carbon footprint of aviation operations.

 

5. Enhanced Safety:

   Jet blasts from aircraft engines can create hazardous conditions on the ground, potentially causing damage to ground equipment, injury to personnel, or even damage to other aircraft if they are in close proximity. Ground support equipment eliminates this risk, making ground operations safer for both aircraft and ground personnel.

Optimizing ground operations at airports is essential for achieving efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and environmental sustainability in the aviation industry. Tow vehicles, tugs, and auxiliary power units play a pivotal role in achieving these goals. By reducing fuel consumption, minimizing engine wear, mitigating noise pollution, promoting environmental sustainability, and enhancing safety, the use of ground support equipment represents a significant advancement in modern aviation practices.

4. How is an aircraft pushed to the runway when it’s ready to take off?

 

When an aircraft is ready for departure, a carefully orchestrated process known as "pushback" is initiated to move the aircraft from its gate or parking position to the runway where it will take off. This procedure involves several essential steps to ensure the safe and efficient transition of the aircraft from the terminal area to the active runway:

 

1. Preparation: Before the pushback begins, the flight crew and ground support personnel engage in a series of preparations. The flight crew conducts their pre-flight checks, ensuring that all systems are operational and that the aircraft is ready for departure. Simultaneously, communication is established with ground control to request clearance for the pushback operation.

 

2. Tug and Attachment: The aircraft is typically pushed back by specialized ground vehicles known as tugs. These tugs come in two main types: towbarless tugs and those that require a towbar attachment. Towbarless tugs have the advantage of not needing a physical towbar connection to the aircraft's nose gear, while aircraft that require towbars have these attachments secured.

 

3. Safety Checks: If a towbar is employed, it is securely connected to the aircraft's nose gear, and comprehensive safety checks are performed to ensure that all connections are properly in place. For towbarless tugs, hydraulic systems are utilized to engage with the aircraft's landing gear securely.

 

4. Controlled Pushback: The pushback operation commences as the tug operator, often referred to as the "pushback driver," carefully and gradually moves the aircraft away from the gate or parking area. This process is meticulously controlled to guarantee the safety of the aircraft, as well as the well-being of the ground crew and equipment.

 

5. Taxiing to the Runway: Following a successful pushback, the aircraft is guided along designated taxi routes to reach the assigned runway. The guidance is provided by ground personnel, who may use hand signals or communicate directly with the flight deck. Taxiways, which are specifically designated paths on the airport apron and runways, facilitate the aircraft's movement within the airport's infrastructure.

 

6. Communication and Clearance: Throughout the taxiing phase, the flight crew maintains communication with air traffic control (ATC). ATC ensures that the aircraft adheres to safe taxi routes and coordinates its movements with other aircraft in the vicinity. The aircraft must follow the prescribed procedures and obtain final clearance from ATC before entering the active runway.

 

7. Ready for Takeoff: Upon reaching the assigned runway, the aircraft completes its pre-takeoff checklist. The flight crew confirms that all systems are functioning correctly and that they have received clearance for takeoff from ATC. The aircraft is now poised for the next phase, which is the actual takeoff.

8. Takeoff: In the takeoff phase, the aircraft's engines are powered up to accelerate the aircraft along the runway. Once the required speed and flight conditions are met, the pilot pulls back on the control column, allowing the aircraft to ascend and become airborne.

 

It is crucial to emphasize that the pushback operation is a meticulously choreographed process that requires precise coordination between ground personnel, tug operators, and flight crew members. This collaboration ensures the aircraft's smooth and secure transition from the terminal to the active runway, optimizing airport infrastructure utilization and maintaining the highest standards of safety during ground operations.

5. Learn about take-off power, Tyre design, rolling resistance, Tyre pressure, brake forces when landing.       

 

1. Take-off Power:

When an airplane is about to take off, it needs a lot of power from its engines to start moving and then to lift off the ground. This special power level is called "take-off power."

Take-off power is like a turbo boost for the airplane's engines. It helps the plane go really fast down the runway, which is like a long road for airplanes. When it reaches a certain speed, the front of the plane is lifted, and it starts to go up into the sky.

Different for Each Flight:

The amount of take-off power isn't the same for every flight. It depends on how heavy the plane is, how high the airport is above sea level, and what the weather is like. Pilots figure out the right amount of power to make sure the plane takes off safely.

Extra Power for Safety:

They also add a little extra power, just in case something unexpected happens, like an engine problem. This way, the plane is always ready to deal with any surprises.

During takeoff, the pilots keep a very close eye on the engines to make sure everything is working well. They use special instruments to check the engine's temperature and power. This helps them make sure the engines are doing their job properly.

Not Always Full Power:

Once the plane is in the air, it doesn't need as much power as during takeoff. Using full power all the time would make the engines work too hard and use too much fuel. So, after takeoff, the pilots reduce the power to a level that's good for climbing and flying comfortably.

Being Quiet:

In some places, like near cities, airplanes try to be quiet. So, they use a bit less power during takeoff to make less noise. This is important to keep the neighbors happy.

So, take-off power is like a strong kickstart for the airplane. It gives it the boost it needs to leave the ground and start its journey through the sky, making sure everything is safe and efficient along the way.

2. Tyre Design:

Aircraft Tire Design:

Just like cars have special tires, airplanes have their own unique tires designed to handle the challenges of flying.

Aircraft tires are not like the ones on your bicycle or car. They need to be super strong because they carry the weight of the entire airplane, which can be really heavy. These special tires are built to handle not only the weight but also the high speeds and different conditions they encounter during takeoff, landing, and when taxiing on the runway.

What Makes Them Different:

1. Strong Materials: Aircraft tires are made from very tough materials to withstand the heavy loads they carry. They have to support the weight of the airplane and everything inside it.

2. Reinforced Sides: The sides of aircraft tires are extra strong to prevent damage from rough landings and sudden stops.

3. Special Tread: The pattern on the tire's surface is designed to help with traction, like the treads on your sneakers. This helps the plane grip the runway and not skid, especially during landing.

4. Heat Resistant: When a plane lands, the tires can get really hot because they have to stop the plane's fast movement. So, aircraft tires are made to handle high temperatures without getting damaged.

Taking Care of the Tires:

Pilots and ground crews always check the tires before takeoff and after landing. They make sure the tires have the right amount of air pressure, just like you would with your bicycle tires. Proper tire care is essential for a safe flight.

Many Landings and Takeoffs:

Aircraft tires have to handle many landings and takeoffs before they need to be replaced. They're built to be tough and long-lasting because changing airplane tires is not an easy task.

In a nutshell, aircraft tire design is all about making super-strong, heat-resistant tires that can handle the weight and speed of airplanes. These special tires play a crucial role in every flight, making sure that the plane can safely land, take off, and taxi on the runway.

3. Rolling Resistance:

Imagine you're pushing a heavy suitcase on the ground. You might notice that it's not as easy to push as a lighter one. That's because of something called rolling resistance.

What Is Rolling Resistance?

Rolling resistance is like a kind of "friction" or "stickiness" between a moving object and the surface it's moving on. When you push or roll something, like a suitcase, a wagon, or even a car, you're working against rolling resistance.

Rolling resistance happens because the surface, whether it's the ground, a road, or a runway, isn't perfectly smooth. It has tiny bumps and rough spots that make things a bit harder to move. Think of it like trying to walk on a bumpy road – it's not as smooth as walking on a flat sidewalk.

Aircraft and Rolling Resistance:

Even airplanes have to deal with rolling resistance. When they taxi on the runway or move on the ground, their wheels are rolling on the surface, and there's a bit of resistance to overcome. It's not as much as pushing a heavy suitcase, but it's still there.

Why It Matters:

Reducing rolling resistance is important because it affects how efficiently an airplane can move on the ground. Less rolling resistance means the plane can move more easily, which can save fuel and make the plane more efficient.

Special Tires and Wheels:

Aircraft tires are designed to minimize rolling resistance as much as possible. They are made to be super smooth and efficient, so the plane can move smoothly on runways and taxiways without using too much extra energy.

In simple terms, rolling resistance is the force that tries to slow down moving objects by making them a bit sticky on the surface they're moving on. Aircraft and other vehicles are designed to deal with this resistance to move efficiently.

4. Tyre Pressure:

Tire pressure is like the air inside a balloon – it's the amount of air that's in a tire. But for vehicles like cars and airplanes, it's really important to get this pressure just right.

Imagine if you blow up a balloon too much, it can pop, right? Well, if you put too much air in a tire, it can also be a problem. On the other hand, if there's not enough air, it's like having a soft and squishy balloon; the tire won't work well.

Balancing Act:

Getting the tire pressure just right is like finding a balance. If it's too low, the tire can't support the weight of the vehicle, and it can wear out quickly. If it's too high, the ride can be bumpy, and the tire might not grip the road or runway as well.

Safety and Efficiency:

For vehicles like airplanes, having the right tire pressure is not just about a smooth ride. It's crucial for safety and efficiency. Proper tire pressure ensures that the tire can carry the weight of the plane, provide good traction on the runway, and handle the forces during takeoff and landing.

Checking and Adjusting:

Drivers and pilots regularly check the tire pressure to make sure it's just right. They use special tools called tire gauges to measure the pressure and can add or release air as needed to keep it at the correct level.

Different for Different Vehicles:

Different vehicles need different tire pressures. Cars, bicycles, airplanes, and even scooters all have specific recommendations for tire pressure. This ensures they work properly and safely.

in conclusion, tire pressure is like the air inside a tire, and it's crucial to get it just right. Proper tire pressure ensures a smooth and safe ride while also preventing unnecessary wear and tear on the tires. So, it's a bit like Goldilocks finding the perfect bowl of porridge – not too hot, not too cold, but just right!

5. Brake Forces When Landing:

Brake Force When Landing: Slowing Down Safely

Imagine you're riding a bike down a hill, and you need to stop. You squeeze the brakes to slow down and eventually come to a stop. Brake force when landing is a bit like that, but it's what airplanes do when they land on a runway.

When an airplane comes in for a landing, it's moving pretty fast. To stop safely and smoothly, it needs to use its brakes, just like a bike or a car. Brake force helps the airplane slow down and come to a stop on the runway.

 

How It Works:

1. Touchdown: When the airplane's wheels touch the runway, the pilot gradually adds brake force. This starts to slow down the airplane.

2. Wheel Brakes: Airplanes have special brakes on their wheels, kind of like the brakes on a bike or car. When the pilot applies brake force, these brakes grip the wheels and create friction with the runway.

3. Reducing Speed: The brake force helps reduce the airplane's speed. Pilots control the brakes to make sure the airplane slows down at a comfortable rate.

4. Safety First: Brake force is carefully managed to ensure that the airplane doesn't stop too suddenly or skid on the runway. It's all about safety.

 

Rollout and Taxiing:

After using brake force to slow down, the airplane continues to roll on the runway at a slower speed. This is called the rollout. Once it's slow enough, the pilot can guide the airplane off the runway and onto the taxiway, where it moves without using brakes.

 

Importance of Brake Force:

Brake force during landing is essential for a safe and controlled landing. It allows the airplane to slow down, ensuring that it can taxi safely on the runway and eventually come to a stop at the gate.

 

In summary, take-off power is the engine setting used for takeoff, while aircraft tire design focuses on creating durable and high-performance tires. Rolling resistance affects aircraft efficiency, and maintaining proper tire pressure is crucial for safety. Brake forces during landing are essential for safely stopping the aircraft after touchdown, and they are managed to prevent overheating and ensure a secure stop on the runway. All of these factors play a vital role in the safe and efficient operation of an aircraft during takeoff and landing.

Part B:

 

6. A. With necessary assumptions, calculate the force and power required to push / pull an aircraft by a towing vehicle

 

Assumptions:

1. Towing Vehicle Mass (M_vehicle): Let's assume the towing vehicle has a mass of 10,000 kilograms (10 metric tons). This includes the mass of the vehicle itself and any additional equipment required for towing.

2. Aircraft Mass (M_aircraft): We'll assume the aircraft has a mass of 90,718 kilograms (200,000 pounds).

3. Total Mass (M_total): The total mass is the sum of the towing vehicle's mass and the aircraft's mass:

   M_total = M_vehicle + M_aircraft

4. Speed of the Towing Vehicle (V_vehicle): Let's assume the towing vehicle is moving at a constant speed of 10 meters per second (approximately 36 kilometers per hour or 22 miles per hour).

5. Slope Angle (θ): To calculate hill climbing forces, we'll assume the vehicle is climbing a slope with an angle of 10 degrees from the horizontal.

6. Coefficient of Rolling Resistance (μr): Rolling resistance is the resistance to motion encountered by the tires. Let's assume a typical value for this coefficient, which is around 0.02 for a well-maintained runway.

7. Aerodynamic Drag Coefficient (Cd): Let's assume a coefficient of 0.03, which is a rough estimate for a typical commercial aircraft.

8. Air Density (ρ): We'll use a standard air density value of approximately 1.225 kilograms per cubic meter (at sea level and 15°C).

 

Calculations:

 

1. Aerodynamic Drag Force (F_drag):

   The aerodynamic drag force can be calculated using the following formula:

   F_drag = 0.5 * Cd * ρ * A * V_vehicle^2

   Where:

   - F_drag is the aerodynamic drag force in newtons (N).

   - Cd is the aerodynamic drag coefficient.

   - ρ is the air density.

   - A is the reference area (cross-sectional area of the aircraft). For simplification, let's assume A = 100 square meters.

   - V_vehicle is the velocity of the towing vehicle.

   F_drag = 0.5 * 0.03 * 1.225 kg/m⊃;;3; * 100 m⊃;;2; * (10 m/s)^2

   F_drag ≈ 183.75 newtons

2. Rolling Resistance Force (F_rolling):

   Rolling resistance force can be calculated as:

   F_rolling = μr * M_total * g

   Where:

   - F_rolling is the rolling resistance force in newtons (N).

   - μr is the coefficient of rolling resistance.

   - M_total is the total mass.

   - g is the acceleration due to gravity (approximately 9.81 m/s⊃;;2;).

 

   F_rolling = 0.02 * (10,000 kg + 90,718 kg) * 9.81 m/s⊃;;2;

   F_rolling ≈ 18,491.82 newtons

3. Hill Climbing Force (F_hill):

   The force required to climb the hill against gravity can be calculated as:

   F_hill = M_total * g * sin(θ)

 

   Where:

   - F_hill is the hill climbing force in newtons (N).

   - M_total is the total mass.

   - g is the acceleration due to gravity.

   - θ is the slope angle in radians (convert from degrees).

θ calculate the hill climbing force, we first need to convert the slope angle from degrees to radians:

   θ (in radians) = θ (in degrees) * (π / 180)

   θ ≈ 10° * (π / 180) ≈ 0.1745 radians

   Now, we can calculate the hill climbing force:

    F_hill ≈ (10,000 kg + 90,718 kg) * 9.81 m/s^2; * sin(0.1745 radians)

   F_hill ≈ 160,823.6 newtons

 

4. Total Force Required (F_total):

   The total force required to move the aircraft, including aerodynamic drag, rolling resistance, and hill climbing, is the sum of these forces:

 

   F_total = F_drag + F_rolling + F_hill

   F_total ≈ 183.75 N + 18,491.924 N + 160,823.6 N

   F_total ≈ 179,499.175  newtons

So, the total force required for the towing vehicle to move the aircraft, considering aerodynamic drag, rolling resistance, and uphill climbing, is approximately 179,499.175 newtons.

To calculate the power required to move the aircraft, we can use the formula for power:

Power (P) = Force (F) × Velocity (V)

Where:

- Power (P) is measured in watts (W).

- Force (F) is measured in newtons (N).

- Velocity (V) is measured in meters per second (m/s).

The total force required (F_total) to move the aircraft has already been calculated as approximately 179,499.175 newtons. The velocity of the towing vehicle (V_vehicle) is given as 10 meters per second.

 

Now, we can calculate the power required:

P = F_total × V_vehicle

P = 179,499.175 N × 10 m/s

P ≈ 1,794,991.75 watts (or 1795 kilowatts)

So, the power required to move the aircraft is approximately 132.37 kilowatts. This represents the rate at which energy must be supplied to overcome the various resistive forces and move the aircraft under the given conditions and assumptions.

 

6. B. Develop the model for the calculated force and power using Simulink.

 

Models:

Aerodynamic Drag Force: -

 

Rolling Resistance Force : -

 

Hill Climbing Force: -

 

Main Model: -

7. A. Design an electric powertrain with type of motor, it’s power rating, and energy requirement to fulfill aircraft towing application in Simulink. Estimate the duty cycle range to control the aircraft speed from zero to highest. Make all required assumptions. Prepare a table of assumed parameters. Draw a block diagram of powertrain. 

(Hint :DC7 Block)

Designing an electric powertrain for aircraft towing in Simulink is a complex task that involves various parameters and assumptions. 

Assumptions:

For this simplified electric powertrain model, let's Take the already taken assumptions:

 

Towing Vehicle Mass (M_vehicle) = 10,000 kilograms                

Aircraft Mass (M_aircraft) = 90,718 kilograms                

Speed of the Towing Vehicle (V_vehicle) = 10 meters per second            

Slope Angle (θ) = 10 degrees                      

Coefficient of Rolling Resistance (μ_rolling) = 0.02                      

Aerodynamic Drag Coefficient (C_d) = 0.03                            

Air Density (ρ) = 1.225 kg/m⊃3; (at sea level)      

Aerodynamic Drag Force (F_drag) = 183.75 newtons 

Rolling Resistance Force (F_rolling) = 18,491 newtons 

Hill Climbing Force (F_hill) = 160,553.58 newtons 

Total Force Required (F_total) = 179,229.15 newtons 

Power Required (P) = 179.229 kilowatts 

 

The Motor power is the input power of the towing vehicle so to obtain maximum speed, the duty cycle needed is calculated as below;

DutyCycle = Output Power/Input Power * 100

Assuming Input power 200 killowatts

Duty Cycle = 90%

 

Conceptual Model in Simulink:

A basic Simulink model for the electric powertrain could include the following components:

1. Electric Motor: Modeled with the given power rating (P_motor) and efficiency (η_motor).

2. Inverter: Modeled with the specified efficiency (η_inverter).

3. Transmission System: Modeled with the given efficiency (η_transmission).

4. Battery Pack: Modeled with the provided capacity (E_battery) and charging/discharging efficiency.

5. PID Controller: Implement a PID controller to control the speed of the motor.

6. Load (Aircraft): Represents the mass of the aircraft being towed.

7. Environment: Represents external factors affecting the powertrain, such as terrain, wind, etc.

 

Estimating Duty Cycle Range:

To estimate the duty cycle range required to control the aircraft's speed from zero to the highest, you would need to perform a dynamic simulation in Simulink that considers the motor's characteristics, the load (aircraft), control algorithms, and external factors. The duty cycle represents the fraction of time the motor operates at various speeds to achieve the desired acceleration and deceleration.

This requires a comprehensive simulation and control strategy development to precisely determine the duty cycle for various scenarios and conditions.

7.  B. Also, Design the parameters in excel sheet.