Successful entry: PROTEUS – TU Munich
Successful entry: PROTEUS – TU Munich
PROTEUS is a CS-23 flying research and test system, developed to mature disruptive technologies for future aeronautics beyond pure ground testing. As a 'Platform for Research & Operational Testing of Experimental Unprecedented Systems', PROTEUS combines modular wings, interchangeable propulsion and energy systems, and a safety-oriented hybrid architecture. The technology assessment identifies hydrogen-electric fuel cell propulsion, cryogenic hydrogen storage, cryo-electric powertrains, high-aspect-ratio wings with active load alleviation, morphing structures and piezoelectric de-icing as key research areas of high relevance for future airliners. The preliminary design largely uses commercially available or near-term components, meets the key requirements for mass, runway length, payload, flight duration, altitude and fallback capability in the event of hydrogen system failure, and enables staged testing – ranging from reliable battery-electric operation through to experimental cryogenic hydrogen and advanced wing modules. A structured development and flight-test concept minimises conversion times and maximises aircraft utilisation. PROTEUS thus constitutes a future-proof, adaptable platform intended to significantly accelerate the technology readiness of climate-relevant aviation systems.
Credit:
TU Munich/PROTEUS