Engineering the future of aerospace: How innovation drives tomorrow’s success
In the rapidly evolving aerospace industry, the key to future success lies in mastering niche skills, embracing disruptive technologies, and refining advanced processes. Each incremental improvement in performance today paves the way for significant achievements tomorrow.
Optimising the aerospace supply chain and business processes
Efficiency in the aerospace supply chain and business processes is non-negotiable. The challenge is how to meet these demands effectively. The answer lies in fully embracing digital technologies. The traditional technical expertise and skills that have driven the industry are irreplaceable, yet digital technologies can augment these capabilities. This is especially vital given the ongoing skills shortage in the sector.
Intelligent technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and robotic process automation (RPA), have the potential to supercharge production by increasing efficiency and reducing errors. RPA, for example, can take over repetitive and labour-intensive tasks, freeing up human resources for more complex work. Expleo is applying AI in various novel ways, from generative AI chatbots that can cut the training times of quality inspectors by 40% for a leading aerospace OEM to an AI-powered visual inspection solution which cuts processing times from 50 seconds to 30 seconds. Whilst we are only at the tip of the iceberg of what AI can achieve, it is already making a difference to enhance efficiency, reduce timelines, and ultimately improve profitability.
Designing the aircraft of tomorrow
The future of aviation hinges on sustainable and energy-efficient designs. This includes optimising supply chains and business processes, as well as designing energy-efficient aircraft. The use of advanced electrical and hydrogen propulsion, eco-friendly materials, and aerodynamic knowledge can significantly reshape aviation’s future towards a more sustainable model.
Learning from other industries
Aerospace does not exist in a vacuum; it shares challenges with industries such as automotive, transport, and marine, where significant advances in AI, automation, and big data are continually being made. Aerospace can benefit from these advancements by adopting a more inclusive approach and inviting insights from outside its traditional ecosystem. One such example is the ExpleoLissa software-defined satellite, which leverages skills and capabilities from other industries so that it can be reconfigured post-launch to adjust mid-mission for applications as wide as supporting emergency services attending forest fires or tracking vaccines in areas without mobile network coverage. The result is a more adaptable, cost-effective and sustainable solution. By learning from the successes and innovations in these industries, aerospace can accelerate its own digital transformation, driving greater efficiency and fostering innovation.
Expleo is a global engineering, technology and consulting service provider that partners with leading organisations to guide them through their business transformation, helping them achieve operational excellence and future-proof their businesses. Expleo specialises in bringing together top-tier talent and cutting-edge digital tools to revolutionise the aerospace sector. Its holistic approach encompasses increasing speed to market, reducing time and costs and automating repetitive tasks. This comprehensive strategy ensures clients are not just ready for the future – they are leading it. To find out more about Expleo meet them at Farnborough International Airshow 22nd – 26th July stand 1305 in hall 1.
Sign up for our newsletter and get our latest content in your inbox.
