Theoretical research and functional modelling of aircraft engines

Abstract

This report focused on studying and comparing new technologies in aircraft engines with today’s conventional engines. By exploring research questions that examine current engine solutions in commercial aviation, assessing the relevance of new engine variants for further development, and investigating how a functional model of an aircraft engine can be designed to facilitate teaching, the group has gained a deeper understanding of aircraft engine performance and environmental sustainability. The report identifies that turbofan and turboprop engines dominate commercial aviation today, while the trend continues towards electrification and hybridisation to reduce environmental impact. New engine variants, such as the Rolls Royce UltraFan and all-electric engines, show promising benefits in terms of lower emissions and improved performance compared to older engines. However, challenges remain to be overcome, particularly in battery technology to enable fully electric aircraft at longer distances. The 3D-modelled functional model of a twin spool turbofan and open rotor engine has been designed to facilitate teaching and demonstrate basic engine functions. The model fulfills the main requirements and many of the requests in the requirements specification, but there is room for improvement, especially in weight and number of configurations. Finally, with the ongoing development and research in aero engines, there is an exciting future for the aerospace industry where environmental sustainability and efficiency continue to be the drivers of innovation.