Conceptual Multifunctional Design, Feasibility and Requirements for Structural Power in Aircraft Cabins

This paper presents a theoretical investigation into the potential use of structural power composites in regional aircraft passenger cabins and the corresponding challenges to widespread use, including fire resistance, long-term cycling performance, and cost. This study focuses on adapting sandwich floor panels with structural power composite face sheets, designed to power the in-flight entertainment system. Using a simple mechanical model to define the structural requirements, based on state-of-the-art laminated structural power composites, a series of electrochemical energy storage performance targets were calculated: a specific energy >144(W.h)/kg, a specific power >0.29kW/kg, an in-plane elastic modulus >28GPa, and in-plane tensile and compressive strengths >219MPa. Significantly, the use of a distributed energy storage system offered a significant range of other mass and cost savings, associated with a simplified power system, and the use of ground-generated electrical energy. For an Airbus A220-100, the analysis predicted potential mass and volume savings of approximately 260 kg and 510 l and annual reductions in CO2 and NOx emissions of approximately 280 tonnes and 1.2 tonnes respectively. This extended design analysis of a specific component highlights both the far-reaching implications of implementing structural power materials and the potential extensive systemic benefits.

Automated summary

This paper investigates the potential use of structural power composites in regional aircraft passenger cabins and the challenges to widespread use, focusing on applying these composites in sandwich floor panels to power entertainment systems. The study sets performance targets for electrochemical energy storage based on mechanical models and advanced laminated composites, highlighting significant mass and cost savings with the use of a distributed energy storage system. Analysis on an Airbus A220-100 predicts potential mass and volume savings, as well as reductions in CO2 and NOx emissions, showcasing the far-reaching implications and systemic benefits of implementing structural power materials.