Workshop explores “Copper Bird” requirements for future-ready aviation propulsion systems

IAAPS, in collaboration with the University of Bath and AVL, had the pleasure of hosting a highly interesting and thought-provoking workshop at its Bristol facility, focusing on Power HiL (Hardware-in-the-Loop) Testbeds for New Propulsion Systems in Aviation, commonly known as the “Copper Bird”. The event brought together leading experts from industry and academia to tackle the challenges of advancing next-generation propulsion technologies.

The workshop featured engaging presentations by IAAPS Managing Director Professor Rob Oliver, Research Director Professor Sam Akehurst, the University of Bath’s Dr Vincent Zeng, as well as AVL’s Sascha Heinecke, Director Sales Industry Solutions and Horst Hammerer, Director Electric System Testing, exploring the emerging requirements for propulsion testing in a net-zero aviation landscape, best practices for integrating Power HiL into propulsion system development, and the latest research findings and innovative technologies driving sustainable aviation solutions.

These presentations spurred insightful discussions, emphasising the importance of collaborative research and knowledge-sharing in addressing the complex needs of modern aviation propulsion systems.
Following a collaborative working lunch, attendees participated in a guided tour of IAAPS’ cutting-edge labs, showcasing the facility’s aerospace-specific capabilities and technologies and providing a deeper understanding of how IAAPS supports propulsion innovation with advanced testing environments tailored to the needs of the aviation sector.

The event underscored the shared commitment of IAAPS, the University of Bath, and AVL to driving progress in sustainable aviation through innovation and partnerships. By bridging academic expertise with industry needs, the collaboration continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the technologies necessary for a net-zero future.

“It was an absolute pleasure and privilege to host a workshop with the aviation industry and AVL to discuss the emerging topics of a "copper bird" facility and its requirements in the aviation sector. The discussions were open, enthusiastic and wide ranging and showed the real benefits to industry in developing this R&I capability,” said IAAPS MD Rob Oliver.

“It was a brilliant day of mutual learning, with a lot of excellent ideas and discussions coming together around the “Copper Bird” topic, enriched by a tour of the beautiful and growing IAAPS lab,” concurred Wilhelm Graupner, Executive Director AVL.