If the triply redundant flight control hydraulic systems are to be replaced by "more reliable" electric actuators, I wonder what degree of autonomy (and redundancy) they will have with respect to wiring and its propagated failures? Unknown........ but keep watching that space.

TRW Demonstrates Continuing Investment in Technology At Farnborough International 2002

CLEVELAND, July 22 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- TRW Inc. (NYSE: TRW - News) will be demonstrating its continuing investment in technology at the Farnborough International Air Show, which takes place from 22-28 July 2002.

TRW Systems

TRW Systems applies technology intelligently to support critical needs in defense, intelligence, government information-technology systems, security, and public safety. Among its full-range of command, control and intelligence capabilities and systems, TRW's stand will feature a demonstration of the Tactical Automated Security System. TASS is a modular, scaleable, portable, reusable perimeter security system that can be rapidly deployed for resource and force protection. It uses diverse technology and sensors - the demo features FLIR -- to detect and identify threats.

TRW is also displaying a 1/3-scale model of the Hunter unmanned aerial vehicle, a battlefield reconnaissance system enables commanders to look deep into enemy territory even in adverse weather. Carrying day/night video sensors, the air vehicles transmit reconnaissance, surveillance and target information in real time back to ground control and mission monitoring stations. Suddenly deployed into combat over Kosovo, Hunter was acclaimed as a "real winner" for its performance during Operation Allied Force by high-ranking Army officials in Europe.

TRW Aeronautical Systems

TRW Aeronautical Systems has a strong technology base, and sees continuing investment in technology as critical to its long-term growth.

Power generation

TRW's proven variable frequency technology has led the aircraft industry to re-evaluate its approach to aircraft electrical power generation. Variable frequency, which eliminates the hydromechanical constant speed drive required in conventional constant frequency systems, provides manufacturers and operators with increased reliability, reduced weight and reduced cost. TRW provided the world's first variable frequency electrical system on Bombardier's Global Express business jet and it has now become an industry standard for new large civil aircraft. The company's 120kVA VF generator will be on display at the show.

Flight controls

Actuation is a major part of TRW Aeronautical Systems technology programme. The Integrated Actuation Package(TM) (IAP), which will be on display, is part of the aerospace industry's efforts to move toward the More Electric Aircraft. The overall aim is to replace, wherever possible, conventional hydraulic systems -- mainly control surface actuators -- with electrically operated and controlled devices (power-by-wire actuators). An aircraft using IAP technology benefits from reduced complexity of aircraft systems, reduced weight and enhanced maintainability.

Engine controls

On display will be TRW's combined Low Pressure and High Pressure main engine fuel pump, and hydro-mechanical fuel and actuator control unit supplied to Rolls-Royce's Trent 500 engine. The hydro-mechanical unit provides fuel scheduling over the flow range of 200-24,000 lbs. per hour. The unit, which weighs only 25 lbs., incorporates pilot and turbine over-speed shutdown functions together with variable stator vane control and shut off indication. The fuel pump supplies sufficient flow to achieve windmill relight at engine speeds as low as 3.5% of maximum, making it the world's most efficient large engine fuel pump.

Cargo systems

Another focus at the show will be the company's 3-inch, self-lifting cargo power drive unit (PDU). The PDU, which drives the cargo containers into position, is designed to be "universal", allowing lower deck commonality on Boeing B777s and B767s, and with minor modifications, on B747s and Airbus A330s and A340s. The PDU incorporates the rugged and reliable features of the company's previous PDUs and adds new features with lower weight and increased reliability. New features include container and scrub sensors to increase roller and motor life, a quick-change wiring harness, and on-board roller replacement.

Missile control systems

TRW will also be highlighting its advanced, fully integrated missile control actuation systems capability on the Aster and Advanced Short-Range Air-To-Air Missile (ASRAAM) missile programmes. The company is a leading supplier of advanced missile and munitions subsystems to U.S. and European defence contractors, providing the control actuation system to a broad range of programmes. The control actuation system provides direction guidance and stability of the missile.

Hoists and Winches

TRW's external mounted rescue hoist on display is one of the most reliable hoists in the world. TRW hoists are used by the US Army and US Coast Guard for air/sea medical evacuation missions on helicopters from leading manufactures including Bell, Eurocopter and Sikorsky.

TRW Systems provides systems, services and information technology -- with expertise in everything from rocket science to computer science -- to government and industry. Based in Reston, Virginia, TRW Systems has annual revenue of $3 billion and more than 15,000 employees worldwide.

TRW Aeronautical Systems provides the global aerospace industry with technologically differentiated systems and equipment in engine controls, flight controls, missile systems, power generation and management, cargo handling, hoists and winches, and flexible shafts and couplings, all backed by a worldwide customer support organization. For company news and information, visit www.trw-aeronautical.com.

TRW Inc. provides high-technology products and services to the automotive, aerospace and information technology markets worldwide. The company's news releases are available through TRW's corporate web site at www.trw.com.

SOURCE: TRW Inc.

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