Preliminary Implementation Study of ACHEON Thrust and Vector Electrical Propulsion on a STOL Light Utility Aircraft

One of the best airplanes ever realized by the European Aircraft industry was the Dornier Do 28D Skyservant, an extraordinary STOL light utility aircraft with the capability to carry up to 13 passengers. It has been a simple and rugged aircraft capable also of operating under arduous conditions and very easy and simple maintenance. The architecture of this airplane, which has operated actively for more than 20 years, is very interesting analyzing the implementation of a new propulsion system because of the unusual incorporation of two engines, as well as the two main landing gear shock struts of the faired main landing gear attached to short pylons on either side of the forward fuselage. This unconventional design allows an easy implementation of different propulsion units, such as the history of different experimental versions allowed. This paper presents the preliminary definition of an increased performance cogeneration system for optimizing the energy efficiency and maximizing the thrust of ducted fan propeller. It then produces an effective design of the ACHEON nozzle for such an aircraft, the definition of the optimal positioning for stability and efficiency. In conclusion, it analyses the expected performances of the resulting aircraft architecture.