TECNALIA develops electronic control units for aeronautical system electrification

We are working on the development of an electronic control unit (ECU) to be used in the AIRBUS real flight simulation platform. This ECU is found in the fuselage and is an actuator for the ailerons and spoilers on the aircraft wings. It turns traditional hydraulic or pneumatic systems into electric systems. Ultimately, it helps in the electrification of the aeronautical sector – in commercial aircraft that some airlines use for short-haul flights (under 1,000 km).

The systems that are being developed as part of the EU's EMA4FLIGHT and VALEMA projects, within the CLEAN SKY 2 programme, ensure a positive environmental impact as they reduce the amount of harmful environmental fluids, improve aircraft efficiency; reduce their weight and also manufacturing costs and maintenance work; and guarantee safety in critical situations, whilst increasing the quality and reliability of actuator systems of flight controls.

The satisfactory outcomes achieved in both initiatives guarantee a better positioning in the aeronautical sector, and are a great leap forward in the maturity of our technology. We also contribute to technological transfer and collaboration with our partners.

Both projects have received funding from Clean Sky 2 Joint Undertaking (a public-private partnership between the European Commission and the European aeronautical industry, which coordinates and funds research for the aeronautical sector) as part of the EU's Horizon 2020 programme. EMA4FLIGHT (grant agreement no 738042) and VALEMA (grant agreement no 755615).