QinetiQ provides key technology expertise for Boeing 7E7 Dreamliner

QinetiQ - Europe's largest science and technology solutions company - has announced that it is providing predictive acoustic modeling expertise for the Boeing 7E7 Dreamliner.

QinetiQ - in ongoing dialogue with Boeing on a number of key technology areas in support of 7E7 requirements - is part of the small group of international companies selected to work with Boeing on the programme. The announcement follows a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) which was agreed between QinetiQ and Boeing in February 2004. The strategic agreement provides for the prospective development of technologies in key fields such as aviation security, air traffic management, fuel cells and acoustics. Boeing also engages with QinetiQ through the use of the organisation's 5m wind tunnel facility in Farnborough, where the aerodynamic performance of the 7E7 is under evaluation by teams of Boeing experts and QinetiQ wind tunnel operators.

QinetiQ's unique predictive acoustic modeling capabilities are the result of many years of research into the attenuation of sound and vibration through complex structures such as aircraft. QinetiQ acoustic engineers take measurements to understand the behaviour of existing structures and then uses the data to investigate and optimise the characteristics of future designs before building them. The overall goal is to deliver a quieter cabin environment achieved at acceptable weight and cost.

QinetiQ's acoustic modeling capabilities are supported by the company's specialist knowledge in such areas as vibration attenuation and in the mitigation of sound generated by turbulent airstreams. The company owns extensive experimental facilities including anechoic chambers, reverberant rooms and a transmission suite.

With its international presence and network of customers and partners, Boeing is delivering important new technology to the 7E7 programme, with the ultimate goal of delivering markedly greater fuel efficiency, lower operating costs and a reduced burden on the environment.

QinetiQ has many years' experience in providing brilliant solutions to important problems in the aviation industry by working with all of the key industrial partners, their suppliers and major airlines.