Thursday, October 25, 2007
Writer: Shanna Relford
news@utsi.edu
Since its founding over 40 years ago, the University of Tennessee
Space Institute has had close ties with the Technical University of
Aachen, Germany. In conjunction with the Aachen university, the
annual Quick-Goethert Lectures have been held since 1974. UTSI and
the premier German technical university alternate hosting the annual
event. This year the lecture will be presented at UTSI by Dr. Thomas
Scherer, Vice President of Environmental Control Systems Engineering
with Airbus Deutschland, the German headquarters of one of the
world's leading aircraft manufacturers.
Professor Scherer will speak on a topic near and dear to the heart
of the UTSI research team: the use of innovative new materials
including carbon fiber, a phenomenal new material that is being
heavily researched at UTSI. Scherer’s lecture is entitled
"Technological Tendencies and Challenges in Aircraft Design. The
A350 XWB." According to Dr. Scherer, “The A350 XWB brings together
the very latest in aerodynamics, design and advanced technologies.”
“With an airframe made of more than 60 percent new materials, chosen
for their superior weight and strength properties, the A350 XWB has
the most efficient structure in terms of design concept. In
particular, its innovative use of all-new Carbon Fiber Reinforced
Plastic (CFRP) paneled fuselage skins provide for much easier
maintenance and repair,” said Scherer.
Dr. Scherer will explain the advances in aerodynamics, manufacturing
and materials that work together to improve fuel economy, lower
maintenance costs, and minimize the noise and environmental impact
in this new aircraft. In addition, a new braking system has been
designed to optimize braking for passenger comfort and better runway
usage. “The A350 XWB Family represents a 21st Century solution for
an aircraft in this size category,” said Scherer.
Please join us for this year’s Quick-Goethert Lecture in the UTSI
auditorium on Nov. 13 at 4 p.m. to hear the latest in flight
technology from this world leader in aviation systems engineering.
The event will be followed by a banquet in the UTSI cafeteria. There
is no cost for the banquet; however, if you would like to attend,
please RSVP by Nov. 6 to Dee Merriman at
dmerrima@utsi.edu or by phone at (931) 393-7213.
