Structure integrated solutions for smart aerospace systems

Abstract

The next generation of aircraft (More-Electric-Aircrafts) require decentralized power supplies to relieve the engine and increase efficiency. In the cabin of an aircraft, thermoelectric energy converters can be used to convert the energy and feed the peak current generated into the flat, system-integrated power storage unit for use in consumer electronics, air conditioning, etc. The power supply can also be used to power the engine. Quality and safety requirements in the age of digital change in aviation require the use of missile and flight system monitoring by built-in self-sufficient sensors. The basic idea for implementing energy-autonomous sensors is the sensible and intelligent use of ambient energy. For this purpose, we at DLR are developing the interdigital, surface-applied micro-supercapacitors, which are used in sensor plasters to combine energy converters and storage, microelectronics and RFID data transmission. In line with the electrification of drives and efficient production in line with industry 4.0, the Functional Layers group is developing flat architecture, large-area and flexible supercapacitor cells in addition to interdigital micro energy storage. These lightweight power storage cells can be integrated into systems and structures and are suitable for powering satellites when they are on the dark side of the raceway.