Analysis of a five phase electrical drive for the propulsion of all electric aircraft

In order to reduce the environment pollution and the oil dependence of the aeronautical industry, in the last years more electric or all electric aircraft are considered the most effective solutions for next future. As well-known, an all electric aircraft uses a propulsion system based on electric motors in addition to the on-board electromechanical actuators. For these new propulsion systems the presence of fault tolerant architectures is mandatory, together with high reliability and robustness of control. The aim of this paper is to point out some sizing considerations of a brushless drives based on a five phase permanent magnet synchronous motor devoted to the electric propulsion of a civil aircraft for the general aviation. With reference to a case-study of a two-propeller four-seat aircraft, starting from the requested mechanical and dynamic performance, the main sizes of two sets of motors are obtained. A comparison is carried out among features and performance of the designed motors, with specific reference to power density and external diameter and length.