
Tyto Robotics tests a distributed electric propulsion (DEP) system by utilizing a state-of-the-art DEP testing platform capable of simulating real-world conditions.Â
Distributed electric propulsion (DEP) is a system in which thrust is generated by three or more electrically powered propulsors distributed across an aircraft. In many designs, these propulsors—which are typically fans or propellers—are arranged along the aerodynamic surfaces of the aircraft, such as the wings.
DEP systems can be classified into two main types: fully electric systems and hybrid systems. Fully electric DEP systems rely on high-density onboard batteries to power electric motors, which then drive the propulsors. Notable examples include the Lilium Jet, NASA’s redesigned X-57 Maxwell, and the Airbus Vahana.
Hybrid DEP systems, on the other hand, use a gas turbine engine connected to a generator that produces electrical power. This power is then distributed to the electric motors, which rotate the propulsors to generate thrust. Examples of hybrid DEP systems include the Aurora Flight Sciences XV-24A LightningStrike, Electra Model EL-2 Goldfinch, and the Airbus EcoPulse.
The strategic placement of components—including power sources, propulsors, and aerodynamic surfaces—is crucial to optimizing the performance of DEP aircraft. While these systems promise significant benefits, such as enhanced efficiency and reduced fuel consumption, they also come with challenges related to integration, scalability, and complexity.
How Tyto Robotics Tests a DEP System
Tyto Robotics employs advanced testing methodologies to evaluate the performance of distributed electric propulsion systems. The Tyto Robotics DEP testing platform can run up to eight motors and propellers simultaneously, ensuring that DEP systems meet stringent requirements for efficiency, reliability, and safety.
This platform integrates hardware, software, and electronics to facilitate comprehensive measurements. By using load cells and sensors, the hardware and electronics measure thrust, torque, RPM, voltage, current, temperature, and power for each motor and propeller.
Using these measurements, the system derives motor and ESC efficiency, propeller efficiency, and overall efficiency, providing insights into the performance of individual powertrains or up to eight combined.
Tyto Robotics’ testing software offers flexibility through manual, automatic, and Python API programming options. Additionally, its flight replay feature enables users to upload flight controller data, using throttle points as a template for replicating real-world conditions.
Each powertrain can be individually mapped and named, ensuring that data remains traceable and easy to interpret. Live plots displaying real-time data allow quick identification of the efficiency levels of each powertrain, making it easier to pinpoint performance variations.