IAAPS recently hosted the second "Copper Bird" workshop in partnership with our academic team and equipment supplier AVL, following the successful inaugural event at the end of last year. The all-day session once again brought together leading experts from industry and academia to tackle the challenges of advancing next-generation propulsion technologies, specifically focusing on key developments in Power HiL Testbeds for new Propulsion Systems in Aviation.
Building on the initial findings from the previous event, key themes being explored included:
Copper Bird Concept – Evaluating "Pure Electric" vs. "Hybrid" propulsion, including hydrogen integration.
Expanding Testing Solutions – Optimising configurations for hybrid-electric propulsion and managing cryogenic transients.
Integrating Simulation & Real-World Testing – Exploring SiL, PHiL, and real-time validation techniques.
System Testing & Fault Scenarios – Defining emulation and simulation protocols, addressing complex failure modes.
Certification & Industry Collaboration – Examining Copper Bird’s role in regulatory processes and standardising testing frameworks.
The discussions brought us a step closer to defining the key requirements for future propulsion system testing - from modular, software-agnostic architectures to fault tolerance, certification pathways, and cryogenic system challenges.
"Defining the test requirements at this stage ensures that future propulsion systems are validated under conditions that accurately reflect operational realities—de-risking technology development and accelerating certification readiness.
This principle was at the core of our discussions throughout the Copper Bird workshop. By bringing together expertise from across industry and academia, we are shaping a robust framework for propulsion system testing - one that not only meets the demands of emerging technologies but also ensures their seamless transition from development to real-world application,” says Professor Rob Oliver, Managing Director, IAAPS.
A huge thank you to all participants for their insights and collaboration! We look forward to driving this work forward - stay tuned for the next steps.
10 March 2025