SAFRAN’S RESEARCH & TECHNOLOGY POLICY

Safran’s Research & Technology strategy is based on the ability to develop innovative technologies and to efficiently manage these advances.

Designing wiring systems at Labinal | © Arturo Rodriguez Research & Development (R&D) refers to the design of a product, construction of prototypes, and development and qualification testing.

Research & Technology (R&T) comes further “upstream”, and includes all initial studies, research and technology demonstrations that give Safran the expertise needed to develop innovative products involving fewer risks, lower costs and shorter lead-times.

The ability to define and control the underlying technologies behind our products guarantees that Safran will maintain its across-the-board leadership positions for many years to come.

STRATEGIC RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

Safran is currently developing two complementary approaches to tomorrow’s aircraft engines:

A conventional turbofan design, but incorporating advanced technologies, that would hit the market towards 2015.
Engines with innovative designs, based on disruptive technologies, that could be available towards 2018-2020.
Expanding the use of composite materials in engines, nacelles, landing gear and brakes, to help reduce fixed and rotary-wing aircraft weight.
“More electric” aircraft, in which electrical systems gradually replace hydraulic and pneumatic systems. Starting on the Airbus A380 and Boeing 787, this trend will characterize the next generation of single-aisle jets.
Maintaining Safran’s leadership in biometric systems, terminals and identity documents, based on continuous improvement of algorithms for identification and biometric data capture.

PATENTS, COMPETITIVENESS DRIVERS

Intellectual property not only enhances our competitiveness, but also helps cement partnerships with other technology leaders. Safran files several hundred patents a year, placing it among the leaders in French industry. Today, the Group’s portfolio includes more than 13,000 patents worldwide.