Set-based design space exploration to investigate the effect of energy storage durability on the energy management strategy of a hybrid-electric aircraft

To investigate the key enabling technologies for hybrid-electric regional aircraft, several assumptions about the maturity and required level of technology are necessary. Within the EU-funded project FutPrint50, a decision-making framework based on Set-Based Design principles is being developed to address these uncertainties arising from operational requirements and technological feasibility levels. The methodology has been applied to study the effects of the energy storage durability and technology level on the energy management strategies of a regional hybrid-electric aircraft. Results highlight the key role of battery energy density on the durability of the battery pack and the viability of the hybrid-electric aircraft concept. Additionally, the trade-off between zero-day environmental compatibility and battery lifetime is identified alongside its causing mechanism. Optimal energy management strategies are suggested in light of this new information. Finally, statistical data of cell energy density is used to estimate the most probable year of feasibility of hybrid-electric propulsion for regional aircraft.