Design of high-torque-density synchronous drives for propulsion of rotary-wing aircraft

This thesis suggests that with air-cooled direct-drive ring-type machines it is very likely to incur into a weight penalty for the application of main propulsion of civilian helicopters. This is however an application not investigated before at the level of detail presented. Therefore, this work serves as a design philosophy and guideline for the development of electrical main propulsion drives for rotary-wing aircraft with a MTOW of 3t or lower. It proposes a systematic approach to a solution, and initial considerations for high-power/low-weight machines with low to medium rotational speed. Furthermore, it highlights the importance of the mechanical and structural considerations for both the electromagnetic mass and the support structure.