Boeing, Rolls-Royce, RUAG Aerospace and Deharde Maschinenbau have entered into a collaborative research agreement to explore the potential of fuel-efficient open-fan (open rotor) propulsion technology for future commercial airplanes.
Using technologies and techniques contributed by each of the parties, tests of a model concept airplane with open-fan engines are planned for early in 2010 at the RUAG Low Speed Wind Tunnel in Emmen, Switzerland. A unique propulsion and measurement system is to be integrated into the model.
As a global leader in technology, Rolls-Royce is providing propulsion design expertise from facilities in the UK and Germany, while Boeing is designing the integrated wind tunnel model airframe. The wind tunnel model will be manufactured by Deharde Maschinenbau of Varel, Germany. The model will utilize RUAG expertise in Counter-Rotating Open Rotor engine simulation.
