Rolls-Royce’s Orpheus program has completed 100 test events across 20 different engine configurations in three years.
Orpheus aims to improve how products and technologies are developed for defence propulsion system programs, including the UK’s Future Combat Air System (FCAS). Work on the Orpheus demonstrator is exploring and validates next-generation twin-spool turbofan technology, and transforming the approach to new propulsion system development, particularly for future Autonomous Collaborative Platforms.
Rolls-Royce is working with the UK’s Ministry of Defence (MOD) and supply chain companies in cross-functional teams to reduce the time it takes to design, produce and test new components. The majority of the current Orpheus supply chain companies are small or medium enterprises with some engaging in the defence sector for the first time.
In just 36 months, the team in Bristol has designed and executed a fast-paced, high-output test campaign that Rolls-Royce said is accelerating innovation and demonstrating how next-generation technology can be matured faster through close collaboration and iterative learning.
“The Orpheus program has proven what can be achieved when we combine engineering excellence with a new mindset – one that prioritises agility, learning and collaboration,” said Pauli Markkanen, vice president of OrpheusWorks – Product at Rolls-Royce. “This milestone shows our ability to deliver future propulsion capability at pace and, in addition, we will continue to explore how such activity holds potential value for civil applications through dual-use technologies.”
Each of the 100 test events has advanced the program in areas such as maturing the demonstrator’s architecture to support a family of products aligned with future Autonomous Collaborative Platforms needs.
Component feasibility demonstrations have de-risked and accelerated technology readiness to inform the development of future platforms, while novel instrumentation trials have enabled deeper technical insight whihc will inform other engine development programs.
The Orpheus approach aims accelerate the pace of Rolls-Royce’s own programs, while providing a model for how innovation can be achieved faster across the wider aerospace industry. The program uses a rapid learning model with continuous testing, iteration and collaboration.
