What is it about?
The use of batteries in addition to conventional fuel tanks results in new certification-relevant requirements with regard to crash safety. As part of the project, DLR is working with industry partners to develop and evaluate concepts for the integration of batteries in the helicopter structure to demonstrate appropriate solutions for the crash load case.
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Why is it important?
Battery integration for electric propulsion in helicopters introduces new challenges, especially regarding crash safety. Integrating such components can influence the crash safety of occupants and individuals on the ground. The aim of this paper is to significantly reduce the risk of intruducing such new technology, which helps reduce the risk of certification and thereby supporting and accelerating the introduction of hybrid-electric propulsion systems.
Perspectives
Researching this topic and exploring technologies, designs, and materials to enable the future implementation of hybrid-electric propulsion systems in helicopters was particularly meaningful to me and my co-authors, as it contributes to building the foundation for safer and more sustainable aviation.
Erik Wegener
German Aerospace Center - Institute of Structures and Design
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Evaluation of Crashworthy Battery Integration for a Medium-Lift Hybrid-Electric Helicopter Using Full-Scale Simulation, July 2025, American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA),
DOI: 10.2514/6.2025-3656.
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