A novel hybrid aircraft propulsion based on the DEA compressor—Part A: Design

Abstract

This two-part article introduces a novel hybrid propulsion system based on the DEA compressor. The system encompasses a Pulse Detonation TurboDEA as the master engine that supplies several full-electric ancillary thrusters called DEAThruster. The system, called the propulsion set, can be categorized as a distributed propulsion system based on the design mission and number of ancillary thrusters. Part A of this article explains the design process comprising intake, compressor, detonation process, diffuser, axial turbine, and the exit nozzle. The main target is to design a high-performance low emission propulsion system capable of serving in a wide range of altitudes and flight Mach numbers that covers altitudes up to 20,000 m and flight Mach number up to the hypersonic edge. Designing the propulsion set, the design point is considered at the static condition in the sea level. Design results show the propulsion set can satisfy all requirements necessary for its mission.