Open rotor propulsion systems can help meet long range emission reduction targets in support of initiatives such Green Aviation. The final Phase II C2A2 code package will be made available to NASA engineers, and will aid multiple investigations of the potential of advanced CROR propulsion concepts to improve fuel efficiency and reduce the environmental footprint of commercial transports. In addition, to direct analysis of particular CROR designs, the model can efficiently produce full performance maps of candidate designs for use in conjunction with system-level design studies. The C2A2 software can also enhance analysis and conceptual design capabilities for assessment of novel air vehicles featuring Integrated and Distributed Propulsion systems such as the ongoing LeapTech initiative. Finally, the modeling capabilities of the CHARM and CGE codes can be exploited- in conjunction with standard noise models - to support initial studies of unsteady loading and acoustics for these advanced concepts.
The enhanced fast-turnaround, physics-based analysis and design tools for CROR systems that will emerge from Phase II will support both civil aircraft manufacturers and DoD. The US Air Force is actively seeking more efficient future transports, and airframers and private industry can utilize these tools in designing aircraft with lower emissions footprint and a superior balance of reduced fuel burn in cruise and community noise impact. Spinoffs of the model to the design of propulsion systems for compound rotorcraft and UAVs are also possible. Phase III commercialization will benefit from the beta testing that will be a feature of the Phase II, as well as by offering new capabilities the pre-existing installed base of CHARM and CGE software users.
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