Mark Thomas

Titilope Aigoro, and Andrew Roseman of Reaction Engines share the milestone with Cranfield Aerospace Solutions supported by Aerospace Technology Institute - Successful vibration and shock tests on Project FRESSON brings zero carbon flight a step closer. Reaction Engines and CAeS have reached an important milestone in their collaboration on Project FRESSON. Successful vibration and shock tests have shown that our radiator meets the requirements to operate safely – paving the way for further ground and flight testing. FRESSON addresses a critical obstacle in the journey toward hydrogen-electric flight: thermal management. It marks a significant stride in advancing the feasibility of hydrogen-electric propulsion in aviation. “This period of testing is the culmination of a lot of work for the project team in the design and manufacture of the unit. Getting the hardware tested and showing it meets the customer requirements is a big step forward for the project,” states Andrew Roseman, Senior Systems and Test Engineer at Reaction Engines. The Challenge: In traditional, combustion-based aircraft powertrains, the majority of the waste heat is dissipated in the high-temperature stream of exhaust gases produced by the engine. Hydrogen fuel cells, in contrast, produce significant amounts of low-grade heat which must be removed from the stack. This presents a unique engineering challenge. Using conventional methods for this heat rejection from hydrogen fuel cells would result in large, heavy heat exchangers, imposing mass and drag penalties that would compromise aircraft range and performance. A Collaborative Solution: FRESSON embraces an iterative collaboration model between CAeS and technology partners Reaction Engines. This approach ensures that each component is optimized within the context of the overall system design, fostering a holistic solution to thermal management. “CAeS & Reaction Engines work collaboratively at every stage of the project. Together, we’ve guided this testing phase, witnessing firsthand the promising results that have unfolded. Our shared enthusiasm for these advancements drives us further toward our collective goal of achieving zero-emissions flight,” shares Titilope Aigoro, Senior Airworthiness & Certification Engineer at Cranfield Aerospace Solutions. Game-Changing Technology: Central to the project’s success is the adoption of microtube radiators – game-changing thermal management technology developed by Reaction Engines. These radiators, utilizing mixed counter-crossflow to maximize efficiency, represent a shift in heat exchanger architecture. The collaboration has resulted in a lightweight, efficient radiator capable of rejecting over 300 kW of low-grade waste heat while minimizing mass & drag penalties. Through a shared vision, multidisciplinary expertise, and a relentless commitment to excellence, FRESSON’s goal is to pave the way for the world’s first truly green, passenger-carrying airline services by 2027.

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Vertical Aerospace, UK's pioneering eVTOL developer, has expanded its Design Organisation Approval (DOA) scope with the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). Initially granted in March 2023, this DOA authorizes Vertical to conduct crucial design activities and issue approvals essential for Type Certification—a milestone for commercial service entry. The recent scope extension allows Vertical's engineers to oversee compliance across key technical domains, including flight control, avionics, and electrical systems. This enhancement streamlines their certification capabilities, reflecting renewed confidence from the CAA following rigorous safety assessments post VX4 prototype incidents. Stuart Simpson, CEO of Vertical Aerospace, expressed confidence in their engineering prowess and strategic partnerships, positioning them to meet global aviation safety standards. He highlighted collaborative efforts between CAA and EASA - European Union Aviation Safety Agency to expedite certification processes, ensuring the VX4 meets stringent safety benchmarks comparable to large commercial aircraft. This milestone aligns with the CAA's adoption of EASA's SC-VTOL standards, setting a precedent for concurrent certification and validation. Vertical is set to commence piloted flight tests with its advanced VX4 prototype, marking a significant leap towards revolutionizing air mobility. #AvfoilNews #VerticalAerospace #eVTOL #AviationInnovation #CAA #EASA #FlightTesting #AviationSafety

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Defence company Anduril Industries and electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) leader, Archer, have signed an exclusive partnership to jointly develop a hybrid VTOL aircraft for critical defence applications https://lnkd.in/eykHrmXy

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The ATI Strategic Programme, a pivotal initiative driving the UK's leadership in civil aerospace technology. Managed by the Aerospace Technology Institute in collaboration with the Department for Business and Trade and Innovate UK, this programme is essential in funding cutting-edge research and technology development. Discover how the ATI Strategic Programme is shaping the future of aerospace: https://lnkd.in/eykpfaRC #Aerospace #Innovation #Technology #Research #UKLeadership

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UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) - MOD Regional Expenditure with Industry On October 17th, the MOD released an update to the “MOD Regional Expenditure with Industry” collection. Statistics on MOD expenditure with industry, broken down by region and industry group. These statistics do not include estimates of MOD supported jobs with UK industry as previously published under the MOD regional expenditure with UK industry and supported employment statistics. Updates to MOD supported jobs estimates will be published under their own statistical collection when available. https://lnkd.in/eTr66y7j

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I wrote a short blog post to talk about the landscape of liquid hydrogen test infrastructure in the UK. The post discusses the facilities which are required today in order to support the zero carbon aircraft of tomorrow. https://lnkd.in/e-giswRQ Aerospace Technology Institute #Hydrogen #Aerospace #Aviation #Cryogenic #UKCapability #Testing #Infrastructure

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Exciting news for Joby Aviation - as they have entered the final phase of certification for their upcoming electric air taxi, having conducted their first Federal Aviation Administration testing under Type Inspection Authorisation (TIA). #aviation #airtaxi #innovation https://lnkd.in/gC3X-4EX

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j2 Aircraft Dynamics Ltd joins Northrop Grumman in creating their own “digital ecosystem” though the use of j2 Universal Tool Kit Capability for the Rapid Assimilation of Flight Test Data   In a recent article in airframer, see the link below: https://lnkd.in/eH7gRHBs it was great to read how Northrop Grumman’s use of a digital environment enables them to “analyze test data, make updates and return to flight test with speed and efficiency,” as they develop the B-21 Raider aircraft.   The ethos behind digital engineering being used to rapidly evaluate flight test programs, review flight data, identify any issues/corrections and continue flight test has been behind the development of the j2 Universal Tool-Kit software from the very beginning. This capability was further enhanced within the j2 software suite in 2015 with the introduction of the j2 Flight plug-in. This plug-in combined with the rest of the j2 Universal Tool-Kit has enabled simulator companies (L-3(L3Harris), TRU, and CAE) to tune models for high fidelity simulators resulting in j2 being given 2 x TAA licenses by the US Dept of State. J2 also supported Marshall ADG using the j2 Universal Tool-Kit to develop a model, evaluate flight data, and investigate anomalies resulting in the identification of the cause of an asymmetric stall on a trial aircraft in only 2 weeks, saving significant investment by MADG in own system development or the potential re-certification of the aircraft.   As a commercial off the shelf product, the j2 Universal Tool-Kit provides any user with the capability to build their own digital modelling eco system, with users able to handle flight test data, run analysis such as uncertainty analysis conduct and envelope expansion activities all off line and return the results to on-going flight test with speed and efficiency. The j2 Universal Tool-Kit provides all the tools necessary for users to have their own digital ecosystem with the capability, summarised above, available straight out of the box.   J2 prides itself on the abilities of the j2 Universal Tool-Kit, backed up with a solid knowledge transfer and training package, which provides the user with a one stop shop for the modelling, analysis, flight test data handling and simulation of any fixed wing or rotary wing aircraft. All this, means that customers no longer have to spend years developing their own digital engineering flight test support capability.   If you would like more information on accessing this proven commercial off the shelf capability for creating your own digital eco system, including the digital modelling of any aircraft (fixed or rotary) and/or the rapid processing and handling of flight test data for design led flight testing or for high fidelity simulator model creation, please do not hesitate to get in touch with j2 below: email: [email protected] email: [email protected] Web: www.j2aircraft.com ph: +44 (0)845 0529489   

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In the November 2024 issue of the Royal Aeronautical Society AEROSPACE magazine: #SwedishAirForce dispersed ops, supersonic boom situational awareness, wither NGAD? multilingual crew operations, AAM training and Scotland prepares for space launch. Plus all the usual news, events and Society updates. New Airbus Helicopters UK facility fit for a (future) king - To mark its 50th anniversary, Airbus Helicopters UK recently opened its new facility at London Oxford Airport. Stephen Bridgewater FRAeS joins the #PrinceofWales and others on hand to mark the occasion. * Pushing the envelope - This month, Rob Coppinger investigates a UK trial using #swarming #drones to fight #wildfires. * ‘If you go down to the woods today...’ - When it comes to Agile Combat Employment, what lessons can NATO learn from its newest member nation? Charlotte Bailey reports from #Sweden where Saab #Gripens are well versed in road operations. * Desert dreams take shape: The world’s newest airshow took place in El Alamein in Egypt. Alan Dron reports. * Lost in translation - With #multilingual flight crews now common, is there a need for #CRM training to address potential safety issues? * Training for the future - Can evidence and competency based training/assessment revolutionise #AAM and #eVTOL training? Fahad ibne Masood, MRAeS, MBA-Av.Mgmt. thinks so. * Floating the idea of electric seaplanes - Two #Nordic companies have taken the steps to make electric #seaplanes a reality. Jack Richardson MA reports from Copenhagen where Elfly Group and NORDIC Seaplanes recently announced a deal for #Noemi seaplanes. * Beating the boom - Do next generation #supersonic aircraft need #sonicboom situational awareness displays? * Scotland prepares for blast-off - Space-Comm Expo highlighted Scottish aspirations for a strong space economy? Howard R. Nye and Jonathan Clare report from #Glasgow. * Alternatives to the $300m fighter- Is the #USAF #NGAD programme dead? If so, what are the alternatives? Bill Sweetman investigates. * The Last Word - Keith Hayward discusses the challenges and dilemmas facing Boeing’s new CEO, Kelly #Ortberg. Download your copy now or join the Royal Aeronautical Society to access it. https://lnkd.in/gsF8Sihq

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Vertical Aerospace has reached a milestone in electric aviation testing. ✈️ The Bristol-based aerospace and technology company successfully completed its first piloted thrustborne flight manoeuvres, marking a significant step forward in the development of its VX4 aircraft. As suppliers of tape and foam solutions for the aerospace industry - used for sealing, soundproofing, and more - it’s exciting to witness these innovations unfold. Read more: https://bit.ly/3Wf0xRw #Foam #Tapes #Aerospace #Engineering

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New developments in the #drone space - highlighted by Philip below

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Following initial funding from the Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA), Flare Bright has won contracts from leading aerospace companies, the UK Ministry of Defence and the United States Department of Defense Defense. Flare Bright’s GPS-free navigation software cannot be spoofed by an adversary, as happens regularly to drones in the Ukraine conflict. The successful one hour endurance flight trials over land and sea were to prove that the software contained in the drone could continuously determine speed and position taking into account data and signals of opportunity, which are not commonly used for navigation. This unique software gave the drone constant, highly accurate internal navigation ‘fixes’ on its location. As it does not require camera-based navigation, which cannot work over water or other featureless terrain, it is reliable enough for operational use.

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The landscape of space-launch vehincles has undergone a dramatic transformation since the early 2000s, shifting from a domain dominated by large national space agencies and established aerospace prime contractors to a more diverse and competitive field. Read more: https://lnkd.in/e8bZ-bP6 #MissileDialogueInititative #Space #InternationalSecurity #MiddleEast

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Today, the key driver behind innovation in the #aerospace industry is sustainability; increasing efficiency and reducing emissions. Tom Hodson looks at how the tradition of #innovation continues to push the development of aerospace design and technology: #Aviation #IntellectualProperty #Patents #DesignRights

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Vertical Aerospace has expanded the scope of flight testing with its VX4 eVTOL prototype. After the UK Civil Aviation Authority broadened the terms of its permit to fly, the company this week started piloted thrustborne hover trials at Cotswold Airport in the southwest of England. Read more: https://hubs.la/Q031VgTF0

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Are you going to DASC 2024? ✈   The 43rd Digital Avionics Systems Conference (DASC) is taking place between the 29th September and 3rd October 2024 and we’re delighted to be presenting a paper titled 'Defining Quantifiable Measures for Data Coupling and Control Coupling' with Collins Aerospace on Wednesday Oct 2nd, 2024 at the session in Coronado B between 15:30-17:30.  https://lnkd.in/gargwi3X   Authored by Phillip Hamm and Chris Hubbs from Collins Aerospace and Andy Galloway and Daniel Wright from Rapita Systems, and presented by Chris, the award winning paper is a case study on a cooperative research project between Rapita Systems and Collins Aerospace.    Using an upcoming tool being developed by Rapita, RapiCoupling, the two companies examined approaches for quantifying measurement of data coupling and control coupling (DC/CC). These verification analyses are mandated by DO-178C but no guidance for quantification of these analyses has ever been published. The paper outlines the findings when measuring DC/CC on airborne flight display software and proposes quantifiable measures that could be used by the safety-critical software industry to assess the thoroughness of DC/CC analysis.    Read the Product Preview and more on RapiCoupling, Rapita’s innovative new approach to DCCC analysis.   https://lnkd.in/eR-uuiVU   #DASC2024 #DASC  #digitalavionicssystems  #DCCC #RapiCoupling #DigitalAvionicsSystemsConference #datacoupling #controlcoupling   

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Safeguard Engineering’s Chief Technical Officer Adrian Payne will be presenting a paper at the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science & Technology (IMarEST)'s International Naval Engineering Conference (INEC) in Liverpool next week.   In collaboration with Ashley Stehr of Stehr Consulting Ltd and Steve Pearson (Safeguard Engineering), their paper ‘Is regulation really the barrier? Exploring the opportunities and challenges in certifying maritime systems with increased automation and autonomy’ examines the surge in automation and autonomy within the maritime industry and how these new technologies are challenging conventional maritime conventions and regulations. As technology evolves, regulations are struggling to keep pace - but is it fair to blame regulations for the constraints on certifying automated vessels? The paper will compare the commercial sector’s prescriptive approach with the goal-based regulations and risk-based methodologies of the defence sector, to look at the opportunities of both and examine the question “Is regulation really the barrier?” Adrian and Ashley will be presenting at 1630 Tuesday 5 November. If you're attending and would like to meet with Adrian, David or Elizabeth from the Safeguard Engineering team, please reach out to them directly – or contact us via our website to schedule a convenient time: https://lnkd.in/eFcND8Cq #SafeguardEngineering #INEC24 #NavalEngineering #MarineEngineering

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