Voith introduces innovations in aerospace composite manufacturing

With an eye on innovations that will help ensure a sustainable future, Voith Composites is supplying its advanced fiber placement technology in the development of vertical-takeoff air taxis aimed at enhancing urban mobility. It is all part of Voith's focus on alternative propulsion systems as a means to power carbon-neutral automobiles and aircraft for generations to come.

Capitalizing on the Voith Roving Applicator technology – a two-time winner of the JEC Innovation Award – Voith Composites has been contracted to design and serial produce highly efficient, extremely light and stable carbon fiber-based composites to equip multi-passenger, autonomously piloted vertical take-off air taxis. This groundbreaking innovation has the potential to radically alter the transport of goods and passengers in areas with high population density. As this aviation concept reaches mass production volume, air vehicles will help alleviate city congestion and contribute to environmental sustainability.

The future of the air taxi concept and its wide-spread adoption depend on the ability to affordably mass produce the units. Already in next-generation development, Voith's VRA technology – a continuously digitized and automated production line for the large-scale manufacture of CFRP structural components – will contribute to this goal. The system drastically reduces waste and thus material costs by depositing the carbon fibers to near-final shape, while delivering the specific strength and stiffness that is critical in aerospace design.

"With our Smart Factory in full operation, we are able to supply our customers in all industries with lightweight composite components," said Matthias Odrobina, CEO of Voith Composites. "From the initial idea to engineering, simulation and serial manufacturing, we are the ideal partner for companies that are driving innovation."