Optimization of the Energy Storage of Series-Hybrid Propelled Aircraft by Means of Integer Differential Evolution

The possibility of realizing full electric or hybrid electric propulsion for aircraft has been considered due to the constant growth in the use of electric technologies in aircraft and the availability of high-power-density electrical machines and converters. In this paper, an optimized design approach is proposed with reference to the optimal trade-off between energy storage system sizing and the fuel mass of a series of hybrid aircraft. The problem is approached using an integer optimization algorithm based on differential evolution and by mixing both the flight mechanics and the electrical issues inherent to hybrid flights. This method has been validated by means of implementing numerical simulations and the results are reported and discussed in the paper.