MORPHELLE - Morphing Enabling Technologies for Propulsion System Nacelles
Overview
Background & policy context:
Flightpath 2050 and the recently unveiled Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda (SRIA) have elaborated CO2-emissions and external noise targets according to chronologically aligned waypoints. For propulsion and power systems the projected cumulative impact of previous Framework Programmes compare favourably to the 2035 target given in the SRIA document. However, if one extends the comparative exercise to include appreciation of SRIA 2050, the goals assigned to propulsion fall short by a significant amount. Until now, no serious consideration has been given to the potential multi-functional benefits afforded by Active Compliant Systems technologies applied to the inlet and cowl (collectively known as 'nacelle'). Targeting a service entry year of 2025+, the MorphElle Project aims to address this aspect, and will thus constitute a body of investigative work that will serve to complement encouraging efforts expended in other projects.
Objectives:
The project's main objective is the design of an adaptive nacelle concept suited to advanced propulsion ideas, and the qualification of numerical experimental work by performing tests on a mechanical test rig. Finally, potential benefits and risks will be analysed and an initial roadmap for resolving the most important issues for implementation, will be communicated. The MorphElle Consortium benefits from a Joint Technical Advisory Committee (JTAC) comprising 10 members: SAFRAN Aircelle, MTU, Airbus, EADS, Alenia Aermacchi, Rolls-Royce Deutschland, ONERA, DLR and CNRS - FEMTO-ST Besançon. The vision of the MorphElle Project is the investigation of ground-breaking technologies to provide a means for physical shape change which will allow adaptive compliant nacelle systems to make a noticeable contribution in reaching the emissions and noise reduction targets beyond the year 2025.
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