@Ann: The title of this article seems to be out of step with its contents, to say the least. Obviously Bombardier doesn't think composite aircraft repair is advancing enough to justify using composites in the CSeries fuselage.
Which aluminum-lithium alloys is Bombardier using? There was an article on this website a few months ago about Alcoa's new third-generation aluminum-lithium alloys, which were developed cooperatively with Bombardier.
@Beth.The government gets involved because the private sector tends to gloss over problems in order to maintain market share. That being said too much government involvement stifles progress. The Bombardier decision is more likely based around deHavilland's experience over the years where their tough aircraft stood up to some primitive operating conditions...dings and dents being the standard operating experience. Also the flight cycle time for the Dash 8 on the west coast averages 58 minutes which is rough on a structure where fatigue is concerned. Aluminum-Lithium is a difficult material to work with but (again) Fleet Industries in Ontario has had long experience in building (and repairing) such structures.It will be interesting to see where Bombardier goes with this since the C series is a big change from the smaller aircraft built previously.
I would think it goes without saying that there should be new standards and certifications for technicians charged with the responsibility for vetting out and orchestrating the fix of composite structures in need of repair. Composite materials are very different that what's required to repair metal and steel structures. I don't know why we need a government report to tell us an heavy investment in training and skills building is necessary!
By refining topologies and using new fluid technology, Moog's new peak sine drive controller increases available power without increasing controller volume.
Lantronix Inc. has expanded its line of controllers for sensor networks with the release of a rugged controller that improves management of automation systems used in a number of industries, including manufacturing, oil and gas, and chemicals.
Inspired by the hooks a parasitic worm uses to penetrate its host's intestines, the Karp Lab has invented a flexible adhesive patch covered with microneedles that adheres well to wet, soft tissues, but doesn't cause damage when removed.
From Dell / Intel® New Paradigms in Design Work Scott Hamilton, vertical market strategist for Dell Precision workstations, 5/2/2013 3
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I've been using workstations for more than 10 years and love finding ways to get more performance from my system. With demanding professional applications that require more power each ...
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A quick look into the merger of two powerhouse 3D printing OEMs and the new leader in rapid prototyping solutions, Stratasys. The industrial revolution is now led by 3D printing and engineers are given the opportunity to fully maximize their design capabilities, reduce their time-to-market and functionally test prototypes cheaper, faster and easier. Bruce Bradshaw, Director of Marketing in North America, will explore the large product offering and variety of materials that will help CAD designers articulate their product design with actual, physical prototypes. This broadcast will dive deep into technical information including application specific stories from real world customers and their experiences with 3D printing. 3D Printing is
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