Patent ID: 11167854

Abstract:
The invention relates to an aircraft incorporating an enhanced power unit for generating electric, pneumatic and/or hydraulic power for the aircraft during all stages of the aircraft operation. The power unit (1) comprises: a heat engine (14) with a drive shaft (2) and a combustion gases exhaust (7). The power unit (1) also includes a Rankine cycle system (12) for recovering thermal energy from a heat source of the power unit (1) for the assistance of the heat engine (14). The heat source for the Rankine cycle system can be taken from the exhaust gases of the heat engine, from the oil coolant circuit of the heat engine or from the output of a compressor driven by the heat engine. Preferably, the aircraft cabin air is reused as a source of oxygen for the combustion. The invention reduces bleed air extraction from the aircraft main engines thereby reducing fuel consumption.