Development of voltage standards for turbo-electric distributed propulsion aircraft power systems

Distributed propulsion is being considered as a possible solution to increase aircraft efficiency, reduce fuel costs and reduce emissions. The size, weight and efficiency of components within a Turbo-electric Distributed Propulsion (TeDP) system are dependent on the voltage level of the electrical power network. Current aircraft voltage standards do not address the architecture of distributed propulsion and so a review of voltage standards from different industries is conducted with areas of commonality addressed. An example of TeDP architecture is presented and analyzed to highlight how current aircraft standards may not apply to TeDP. A summary of challenges in developing standards for a TeDP is compiled with a stakeholder analysis to demonstrate the wide range of industries and personnel with vested interests in the development of voltage standards and recommended practices for TeDP.