EMMA KELLY / MUNICH
Tornado demonstration shows possibilities of 'smart' structures and avionics for military and civil aircraft
EADS expects "smart" structures and avionics to feature on military aircraft within five to seven years, with Eurofighter likely to be the first platform.
Smartness involves using available resources to achieve multi-functionality - for example, using fibre-optic sensors embedded in an aircraft's structure rather than attached mechanical gauges to measure strain, says Peter Becher, vice-president technology management at EADS Military Aircraft.
EADS is developing smart structures and avionics. The manufacturer is investigating monitoring structural damage via a smart layer of sensors, actuators and integrated control loops. Smart structures could also include active damping using piezo elements to dampen vibrations. "We have shown the principle works," says Becher.
A smart combination of structures and avionics would involve the use of embedded optical databuses. "The smart idea would beto print this on to the structure of the aircraft, for example Eurofighter," he says. EADS conducted a technology demonstration on a Panavia Tornado last month, and tests continue. "We showed we could print optical buses on the structure, and communicate with these optical fibres," he says.
Another possibility is antenna integration on the aircraft's structure, as conventional mounting configurations involve weight and size issues. Becher says EADS has started research into smart antennas and developed a ground-test model. "We want to design one with the right electrical and mechanical properties to be completely integrated into the structure," he says, adding the antenna may be incorporated in the leading edge of the wing.
Smart avionics will see the development of open modular electronics featuring standardised interfaces, with system functions integrated in a modular system.
The next stage in the programme will be to develop smart engines, says Becher, with the first step likely to involve the integration of flight and engine controls.
EADS's smart activities are in a "technology exploitation phase and not yet mature for applications, but near to", says Becher. "Five to seven years from now we will see it in aircraft." EADS is already identifying applications for Eurofighter, although they could also apply to the Tornado.
Becher says EADS also hopes to initiate a "smart" project as part of the European Technology Acquisition Plan, a European programme being undertaken to develop new defence capabilities up to 2020.
The principle of smartness can be applied to other areas of aeronautics and is not just confined to military aircraft, he says. For example, fibre-optic embedded strain and temperature gauges are being used on the Airbus A340-600 test aircraft to provide structural data.
Source: Flight International
