Nottingham researchers have developed a new wing structure for future high-speed, low emission helicopters.
Engineers from the Institute for Advanced Manufacturing, at the University of Nottingham, have designed the structure for Airbus Helicopters, a world-leading aeronautic company.
Experts say the aircraft, called the Racer High Speed Rotorcraft Demonstrator, will be in operation by 2030.
The wings will allow them to complete more ‘advanced missions’ by flying further and faster than traditional helicopters.
The structure was unveiled at the Paris Air Show by Airbus’ chief executive Guillaume Faury on Tuesday (June 20).
Tomasz Krysinski, head of research at Airbus, said: “We are extremely happy to have the University of Nottingham among our partners for the new Racer High Speed Rotorcraft Demonstrator.
“The university’s world-leading expertise and resources in engineering, advanced manufacturing and materials, and aerospace technology, have given us a leading edge to ensure we provide an outstanding high-speed helicopter to our customers, which meets exacting standards of performance, quality and safety.”
Professor Svetan Ratchev, director of IfAM and project coordinator, said: “We are thrilled to be part of this pioneering programme to deliver an advanced aircraft platform that will ensure competitive and green aviation and deliver important high value manufacturing jobs in Europe.
“Working in close collaboration with Airbus Helicopters and GE Aviation, the University of Nottingham team is uniquely positioned to contribute to the development of both the ground-breaking wing design and manufacturing technologies for the new Racer High Speed Rotorcraft.”
The new wing structure will be lighter, more affordable and efficient.
The research has been funded by the EU through the Clean Sky 2 (CS2) Joint Undertaking.
Clean Sky is the largest European research programme which develops innovative technology to reduce carbon dioxide emissions produced by aircraft.
