Method and system for rapid starting of a combustion engine in a multi-engine aircraft

A starting and electrical generation system for a main combustion engine of an aircraft, the starting and electrical generation system comprising:

• a starter-generator having a transmission shaft, the starter-generator being configured to operate in a motor mode in which the transmission shaft transmits torque to a main moving assembly of the main combustion engine, and a generator mode in which electrical power is generated when the transmission shaft is driven by the main moving assembly, the starter-generator comprising a first polyphase winding and a second polyphase winding, each configured to generate electromagnetic torque, the torques collectively driving the transmission shaft during a starting operation, the starting and electrical generation system comprising a first main electrical power source selectively connectable by a first electrical connection to a first main electrical converter electrically connected to the first polyphase winding, and a second main electrical power source selectively connectable by a second electrical connection to a second main electrical converter electrically connected to the second polyphase winding,
• wherein the starting and electrical generation system comprises control circuitry including a controller and switching elements, the control circuitry being configured such that:
• during operation in a starting mode, the control circuitry causes electrical power from the first main electrical power source to be supplied to the first polyphase winding via the first main electrical converter, and causes electrical power from the second main electrical power source to be supplied to the second polyphase winding via the second main electrical converter;
• during operation in a standby mode, the control circuitry causes electrical power from the second main electrical power source to be supplied to one of the first polyphase winding and second polyphase winding, and causes the first main electrical power source to be maintained under load via a transverse electrical connection connected to the second electrical connection;
• and
• during operation in an electrical power production mode, the control circuitry causes the first main electrical converter and the second main electrical converter to be electrically connected in parallel to supply electrical power to the first main electrical power source.