Rolls-Royce collaborates with BCU to fast-track engine projects

AEROSPACE giant Rolls-Royce is working with Birmingham City University to fast-track new engine projects.

The university has launched the UK’s first dedicated Knowledge Based Engineering laboratory – a state-of-the art facility which will help global blue chip companies such as the aero engine manufacturer develop new programmes.

Knowledge Based Engineering (KBE) involves the greater application of computer intelligence in the design process, in which smart technologies take over from the human designer to create concepts that have the potential to meet a variety of challenges and business needs.

Crucially, KBE significantly reduces product-to-market timescales.

KBE is seen as an innovative method for design automation, capturing best practice in product design and procedures, allowing businesses to model engineering processes for rapid product development.

The new KBE lab is based within the university’s Faculty of Technology, Engineering and the Environment and BCU hopes it will lead to many move high profile collaborations.

BCU has been working as supplier for research with the Aerospace Division of Rolls-Royce since 2008, most recently on an engine development project.

“The thriving partnership with Rolls-Royce typifies how the University can engage with companies on a variety of different activities, from applied research, to consultancy and bespoke training,” said Professor Craig Chapman, Head of the Knowledge Based Engineering Lab at BCU.   
 
As part of the lab’s launch ‘thought leaders’ were brought together to discuss recent advances in KBE technology and its main benefits to industry, led by leading industrial speakers from organisations including Rolls-Royce, Aker Solutions and TechnoSoft Inc.

BCU Vice-Chancellor Professor Cliff Allan opened the showcase.