Imagine if a plane's wings could adjust their shape smoothly like a sliding dimmer switch instead of clicking into a few fixed settings. This allows planes to descend at a steeper angle, staying higher for longer to keep noise away from houses on the ground. It prevents the plane from wasting fuel or struggling to slow down during the final approach to the runway.
Aircraft using steep descent angles to reduce ground noise often struggle to slow down, forcing pilots to deploy flaps too early. This leads to higher fuel consumption and inefficient energy management during landing.
The project is building optimization algorithms and a conceptual stepless automatic high-lift system to dynamically adjust wing configurations.
If you are a wing manufacturer dealing with rigid high-lift settings that limit descent flexibility — this project developed a stepless automatic high-lift system that adapts to wind and aircraft mass. This allows for steeper glidepaths without increasing fuel consumption.
If you are an electronics provider dealing with the need for better pilot-ATC coordination during approach — this project developed optimization algorithms that help pilots follow speed assignments more accurately. This improves traffic flow within the Terminal Manoeuvring Area.
If you are an airport operator dealing with noise complaints from residents near the runway — this project developed a method to increase glideslope angles safely. This reduces noise perception on the ground while maintaining fuel efficiency for arriving flights.
Based on available project data, there is no specific pricing or implementation cost mentioned.
The project is currently developing optimization algorithms and analyzing flight performance, suggesting it is in the research and development phase rather than full industrial scale.
Based on available project data, there are no details provided regarding patents or licensing agreements.
The project addresses environmental regulations regarding noise perception on the ground and fuel consumption during the final approach phase.
The solution provides pilots with better ability to follow ATC speed assignments and instructions within the Terminal Manoeuvring Area.
The consortium is a research-heavy group with 7 partners across 5 countries. It features a strong academic and research base (5 institutions) balanced by 2 industry partners, including a specialized airborne equipment manufacturer (Thales AVS) and one SME, resulting in an industry ratio of 29%.
Contact DLR (Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt eV) for technical inquiries.
Contact SciTransfer to connect with the STEPLESS consortium for early-stage technology transfer.
