Power electronics transforms aircraft systems

This paper describes the secondary power sources available on a large transport aircraft and discusses expectation that power electronics will enable the transforming of present aircraft systems into new highly integrated systems. The benefits expected from integrating all of the engine-based hydraulic and pneumatic power sources into a single electrical system are identified in qualitative terms. The estimated capacity of an all-electric secondary power system for a tri-jet and a new large transport are compared. A power system architecture that eliminates the need for a pneumatic and hydraulic power distribution system is illustrated. Particular emphasis is given to the flight control system and the electrical power system needs to ensure integrity of power and data for critical flight control functions. The data bus and power source redundancy for flight control actuation is discussed using an integrated power and cable concept in conjunction with an intelligent power controller