Thu, Oct 06, 2011
AS350 Flies Using A Combination Of An Internal Combustion
Engine And An Electric Motor
Eurocopter has successfully tested a hybrid helicopter that
combines a turboshaft internal combustion engine with an electric
motor, using the supplemental electric system to increase
maneuverability of a single-engine helicopter during an
autorotation landing - which is performed by helicopters in the
event of a main engine failure.
The demonstrator helicopter is a production version of
Eurocopter's highly successful light single-engine AS350, which has
been equipped with a supplementary electric motor. In the event of
an engine failure, the electric motor provides power to the rotor,
allowing a pilot to control the helicopter very easily during the
descent to a safe touchdown. The next step is to bring this concept
to maturity and evaluate its implementation on Eurocopter's series
production helicopters.
"Eurocopter's research and development efforts are used every
day to push the frontiers by increasing helicopter safety and
performance for the benefit of our customers, and we are proud to
have brought the first helicopter equipped with an internal
combustion engine and electric propulsion system to flight," said
Lutz Bertling, Eurocopter President and CEO. "Hybrid propulsion is
an important element of Eurocopter's innovation roadmap in
developing the next generation of helicopters. It offers new
opportunities for improvements in safety, along with the potential
for reducing fuel consumption and emissions."
The AS350 hybrid demonstrator has its highly compact electric
motor and lithium ion polymer battery installed in the center area
of the helicopter. Electronic controls enable precise deployment of
power delivered by the electric motor during the period of
autorotation.
More News
Inversion to Launch Reentry Vehicle Demonstrator Aboard SpaceX Falcon 9 This fall, the aerospace startup Inversion is set to launch its Ray reentry demonstrator capsule aboard Spac>[...]
"We are excited to accelerate the adoption of electric aviation technology and further our journey towards a sustainable future. The agreement with magniX underscores our commitmen>[...]
"The journey to this achievement started nearly a decade ago when a freshly commissioned Gentry, driven by a fascination with new technologies and a desire to contribute significan>[...]
Aero Linx: OX5 Aviation Pioneers Each year a national reunion of OX5 Aviation Pioneers is hosted by one of the Wings in the organization. The reunions attract much attention as man>[...]
"Our driven and innovative team of military and civilian Airmen delivers combat power daily, ensuring our nation is ready today and tomorrow." Source: General Duke Richardson, AFMC>[...]
SpaceX to Launch Inversion RAY Reentry Vehicle in Fall
See All