Table of Contents

Introduction to innovation in aeronautics. Part 1 Concepts: Biologically inspired technologies for aeronautics; Morphing concepts and technologies to change the aerodynamic shape of aircraft to suit flight conditions; Jet engine design drivers: past, present and future; Innovation in avionic systems: developments underpinned by digital technologies; The environment as the key design driver in aeronautics; The human factors that relate to technological developments in aviation; Innovation in supersonic passenger air travel. Part 2 Change: The process of innovation in aeronautics; Managing innovative technology development in aeronautics: technology assessment (TA) techniques; Mining the 'far side' of technology to develop revolutionary aircraft prototypes: the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) approach; Revolutionary ideas about the future of air transport. Part 3 Challenges: Intellectual property, patents and innovation in aeronautics; Cost, time and technical performance risk mitigation in large, complex and innovative aeronautics development projects; Innovation in aeronautics through lean engineering. Part 4 Conclusion: Conclusion: innovations in aeronautics.

About the Author

Trevor Young is Senior Lecturer in Aeronautical Engineering at the University of Limerick, Ireland. Mike Hirst is a retired academic and aviation consultant.