[2011-03-17] Professor Tobias C. Larsson has been a member of the core team behind the 2010 release of an Aviation National Research Agenda (NRA Flyg 2010). NRA Flyg 2010 was the result of a unique collaboration where companies, academia and institutes – together with relevant governmental agencies – have aligned themselves with respect to the future of Swedish aeronautical research. The research agenda aims to create a shared national perspective on the goals, direction and scope of Swedish aeronautical research.
During 2011 the team will continue to do work and focus recommendations for 3 prioritized areas within the agenda. This work will be presented as an addendum to the original research agenda. Prof Larsson takes part in the work on behalf of Blekinge Institute of Technology, and March 16 was a joint meeting at VINNOVA to further tweak the Addendum.
– It is about positioning Sweden on the European aviation map for the future. I also see interesting opportunities for the universities, and BTH may play a role in meeting up the environmental demands with methods and tools to support development of greener engines, planes and surrounding systems.
– We need to find good positions within EU, and see our national strengths and weaknesses and then use our research resources in best possible way to collaborate for the benefit of improved aerospace development regarding customer experience, abilities and environmental performance, Tobias C. Larsson continues.
There is a need to increase research in our strong areas to maintain leadership, but also find the opportunities for new research in areas that are “white spots” on the map.
– Companies need to act strategic; there is a high aerospace competence in Sweden but in what direction are we moving?
According to Larsson there are huge challenges ahead for aerospace and space technology areas. The need for transportation will continue to increase, while the systems at the same time have to be environmentally more friendly. Also, safety should increase while maintaining competitive prize picture.
Time horizon is not the shortest…
– In this industry we’re talking planning for 2040-2050, some long-range planning, and most of us have probably retired by then, Larsson concludes.
Apart from BTH, the following organizations have taken part in the creation of the research agenda: VINNOVA, FMV, FM, FOI, Saab, Volvo Aero, LiU, LTU, KTH, Chalmers, HV, SAI and Teknikföretagen.
Links:
- NRA Flyg 2010 website with research agenda, presentation and prioritized technology areas
- VINNOVA press at NRA 2010 release
- Tobias C. Larsson @ BTH
