Optimal DC-link Voltage from Weight and Loss Perspective for eVTOLs

TL;DR

This paper investigates the optimal DC-link voltage for eVTOLs by balancing weight, efficiency, and battery lifetime, proposing a new power converter topology validated through experiments.

Contribution

It introduces a systematic optimization method for DC bus voltage considering flight profiles and proposes a novel inverter topology for improved performance and safety.

Findings

Optimal DC bus voltage enhances efficiency and battery life.

Proposed inverter topology improves power converter performance.

Experimental validation confirms the benefits of the optimized architecture.

Abstract

Electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft are emerging as a modern transportation solution aimed at reducing urban traffic congestion and improving the carbon footprint. The power architecture in eVTOLs is defined by the dc bus formed by the battery packs and the power converter used to drive eVTOL motors. A high dc bus voltage is preferred for the power architecture since it can reduce the weight of power cables for a given power rating. However, the impact of high dc bus voltage on the efficiency of the drivetrain power converter must be considered, since reduced efficiency leads to poor battery pack utilization. In this paper, a systematic optimization study is performed considering SiC-based inverter for the drivetrain power converter. Optimal value of dc bus voltage is determined considering the flight profile of eVTOLs. A power converter topology is proposed that can provide optimal performance and enhance the lifetime of the batteries along with providing better monitoring, diagnostics and protection. The optimization strategy is validated experimentally, demonstrating the proposed power architecture's ability to maximize efficiency while enhancing the safety of the battery energy storage system in eVTOLs.