There’s no denying how the aerospace sector has come a long way. What started as a mere exploration of our own planet has led to the gradual exploration of outer space. Yet, there is so much work to be done for progress and development. And there are so many things yet to improve on this planet and discover in the space beyond Earth.
It’s good that we’ve seen recent digital trends in the aerospace sector. Thanks to modernization and technological advancement, we’ve taken baby steps towards searching the unknown. But on a global scale, we’ve witnessed growth in the industry, as more skyrocketing aircraft production, rising industry employment, and increasing business revenues.
Let’s take a look at the new and emerging digital trends in aerospace.
1. Digital Transformation
Digital transformation has become a buzzword in various industries, especially during this COVID-19 pandemic. And this applies to the aerospace sector as well. Automation, artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and sensory technologies have become game-changers in the industry.
Many commercial airlines and private charter businesses have employed digital tools and technologies. The same is true for the military and defense. Even the use of RAM technology for outer space is utilized via digital operation.
2. Simulated Data and Multiphysics Simulations
The aerospace industry requires the consistent operation of its tools and technologies. Along with this is the continuous maintenance and repair of these resources. However, they can be complicated.
As such, the best course of action is to rely on simulated data heavily. These will allow them to track, monitor, and update their systems regularly. Also, they can resort to the use of multiphysics simulations to ease the complexity of their operations.
3. Electric Aircraft
Many industries have long been dependent on fossil fuels for operations. The aerospace sector is no exception. Reliance to fossil fuels, however, can be costly and detrimental to the environment.
It’s good that there has been a recent push for fuel-efficient aircraft or more electric aircraft (MEA). This strong push for electric aircraft can be a game-changer in aviation. That said, expect the rise of MEA in the next few years to come.
4. Autonomous Flight Systems
We may have recently heard of autonomous flights in the aerospace industry. An autonomous flight refers to an electric aircraft flying without human intervention. It means that it is under the control of an automated system.
That said, we’ve recently seen the emergence of autonomous flight systems with minimal human intervention. But in the next few years to come, we can expect to see human-free flights. These flights can become a reality through investments and innovations in the industry.
5. Increase of Mergers and Acquisitions
There must be strong collaboration and system integration among key players from different parts of the world to realize the industry’s full potentials. That is where mergers and acquisitions (M&As) come into the picture.
In recent years, we’ve seen an increase in M&;As among businesses, organizations, investors, and stakeholders in the industry. Hence, it’s safe to say that the world has become a global village because of these. Soon enough, we’ll take space into outer space by launching more and more spacecraft.
6. The Use of Smart Materials
The aerospace industry requires the use of robust yet sustainable materials due to their complexity. Think of how aircraft and spacecraft get built and developed out of raw materials. That is not to mention integrating digital tools and operations to ensure their safety, efficiency, and overall performance.
Thanks to the increased use of carbon nanotubes (CNT) and graphene, they prove beneficial in the industry. They make aircraft more efficient through the reduction of fuel consumption and aircraft weight.
7. Focus on the Asia-Pacific Region
Speaking of aerospace, we immediately think of countries like the United States, China, and Russia. Sure, they may be the key players when it comes to space exploration. However, every country must get involved, as far as aviation is concerned.
As the world is becoming a global village through digital tools and technologies, every country must partake in the world’s progress and development. The aviation industry is no exception, as the focus now is on the Asia-Pacific region.
The aerospace industry is indeed flourishing. Consider general aviation with the continuous operation of commercial airlines. Think of the aerospace and defense sector as every country’s top consideration. Yet, when it comes to space exploration, there is so much potential. The new and emerging digital trends will set the direction of the aerospace sector. Ultimately, they will determine the future of the industry.
