US 2008/0184906 A1 · Long range hybrid electric airplane

Abstract

An advanced internal combustion-electric hybrid airplane, having at least double the flight range and flight duration than a conventional equivalent airplane, while using the same amount of any desirable fuel. This is achieved by using 2-3× smaller and ultra-lightweight engine for cruising, and ultra-lightweight electric motor powered by lithium batteries during take-off and climbing. The electric motor becomes a generator during cruising and descent, recharging said batteries. The airplane has also temporary silent electric stealth capability and added safety by the electric back-up power. Due to its high efficiency, the operational cost is substantially reduced. Additional features include highly advanced, minimum drag and weight airframe.

Claims14

Dependent claims

Parallel internal combustion-electric hybrid propulsion system for airplanes, comprising:

a smaller internal combustion engine than an internal combustion engine of an equivalent internal combustion-only airplane;
an electric motor/generator in one unit;
an electric control unit for controlling said motor;
an electric clutch between said engine and said motor/generator;
at least one battery electrically connected to said motor/generator through said control unit;
a propeller which can be driven by said engine, or by said electric motor, or by both, selectively through said clutch;
and a fuel storage.

4 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Long range hybrid electric airplane

Life of this patent

Long range hybrid electric airplane

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims14