Advanced Concepts and Technologies for Electric Aircraft

This edited volume with expert contributions addresses the critical engineering challenges in aircraft electrification. It focuses on power electronics, electric motors, insulation systems, and energy storage essential for achieving sustainable aviation and meeting global carbon reduction targets.

Throughout this book, expert chapter contributors provide comprehensive coverage of electric aircraft technologies, from propulsion system architectures to advanced power conversion solutions. Beginning with an overview of the aviation industry's decarbonization journey, it examines hybrid-electric, fully electric, and hydrogen-powered alternatives across different market segments. Detailed technical discussions encompass power electronics fundamentals, including novel converter topologies such as zigzag transformer-based systems and switched-midpoint boost inverters. The book explores DC-DC converter technologies, high-speed permanent magnet synchronous motor drives, and magnetic geared machines optimized for aerospace applications. Advanced topics include prognostics and health management systems for predictive maintenance, wide bandgap semiconductor technologies, and critical insulation challenges in high-voltage, high-altitude environments. Quality assurance protocols and testing methodologies for motor insulation systems under aerospace conditions are thoroughly examined. This in-depth approach enables readers to apply their knowledge to design fully electric aircraft, including their motor drives, control systems, energy management, and insulation.

This book is a vital resource for anyone researching the development of electric aircraft systems and sustainable aviation technologies. It is particularly useful for postgraduate students of electrical engineering, aerospace engineering, and power electronics and researchers and engineers within R&D departments in aircraft and propulsion systems manufacturers.