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Article
Publication date: 2 November 2015

Pengbin Gao, Yexin Liu, Xiaoli Li and Yan Wang

This paper aims to unravel the technological innovation pattern in China’s aerospace industry. The technological innovation pattern of China’s aerospace industry is identified and…

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Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to unravel the technological innovation pattern in China’s aerospace industry. The technological innovation pattern of China’s aerospace industry is identified and its theoretical foundation, structure, philosophy, formation and effects on the development of China’s aerospace industry are explored.

Design/methodology/approach

First, the theoretical foundation of synergy innovation of China’s aerospace industry is reviewed to further identify the technological innovation pattern. Second, Chinese ancient philosophy (dialectical thinking) is used to explain the structure and process of synergy innovation in China’s aerospace industry. Third, the formation process of synergy innovation is introduced, and, finally, the effects of synergy innovation are discussed.

Findings

The technological innovation pattern of China’s aerospace industry has undergone an evolutionary process. During this process, China’s aerospace firms have formed a unique technological innovation pattern, synergy innovation, under China’s special political and economic background. The synergy innovation has three characteristics, including original, integrated and application-based. The synergy innovation pattern application is one of the most important reasons behind the great achievements of China’s aerospace industry.

Originality/value

A unique technological innovation pattern, synergy innovation, is proposed for the first time. A new perspective for understanding innovation is provided by applying the Chinese dialectical thinking to decipher the philosophy of the technological innovation pattern. Based on this, this paper suggests that China’s aerospace industry should follow the situation and apply the synergy innovation pattern to achieve development and growth. This paper also illustrates a multi-method approach and emphasizes the different levels of organizing for innovation.

Details

Chinese Management Studies, vol. 9 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1750-614X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 2 November 2015

Peiwu Dong, Kai Qiao and Mei Yang

The purpose of this paper is to study the operational efficiency of aerospace industry in China and compare the difference in efficiency between the private aerospace enterprises…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the operational efficiency of aerospace industry in China and compare the difference in efficiency between the private aerospace enterprises and the state-owned aerospace enterprises. This paper enriches the study on evaluating the operational efficiency of aerospace industry and develops the theory on aerospace industry management.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample comprises all the aerospace enterprises listed in the A share market for which financial data are collected from the RESSET for subsequent analysis. Data envelopment analysis (DEA) and Malmquist productivity index (MPI) are used to derive findings.

Findings

The paper finds both the scale and the technical level of the industry increased during the period, and this was mainly due to the growth of the state-owned enterprises. However, with the increase of scale, the total factor productivity of the sample decreased. This was mainly because the performance of the leading enterprises regressed. Overall, the operational efficiency of the industry was still relatively low. By comparing the private enterprises and the state-owned enterprises, this paper finds, in terms of scale, the private enterprises were far lower than the state-owned enterprises. However, as for operational efficiency, the private was more efficient, which indicates an imbalance in the development of the industry.

Originality/value

This paper explores the operational efficiency across the Chinese aerospace industry, a focus currently lacking in research, presenting an overview of the industry and examining the difference in efficiency between the private aerospace enterprises and the state-owned aerospace enterprises to provide policymakers and managers with some practical suggestions to promote the development of the industry.

Details

Chinese Management Studies, vol. 9 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1750-614X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 December 1999

Michael Seidl and Brian H. Kleiner

Downsizing in the aerospace industry is due to the cyclical nature of its business segments – defense and commercial. Erratic defense spending and fluctuations in commercial…

1650

Abstract

Downsizing in the aerospace industry is due to the cyclical nature of its business segments – defense and commercial. Erratic defense spending and fluctuations in commercial demand for aerospace products are the primary causes of this cyclical behavior. All employee groups are affected by aerospace downsizing initiatives, but the extent that each group is affected depends on product lifecycles. Economic impacts of aerospace downsizing efforts are substantial, both to the individual and communities, but are somewhat less today than in past years. As with all downsizing industries, the challenges of the aerospace industry include maintaining technological competitiveness in the areas of product development and human resources.

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, vol. 71 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0002-2667

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 4 January 2016

Abbas Rafiei, Peyman Akhavan and Saeed Hayati

The present paper aims to identify factors and variables affecting designing and assimilating technology in knowledge-based centers and aerospace industries, to study their…

994

Abstract

Purpose

The present paper aims to identify factors and variables affecting designing and assimilating technology in knowledge-based centers and aerospace industries, to study their relations and, ultimately, to provide a model based on research data.

Design/methodology/approach

Structural equation modeling (SEM) using AMOS software was used to study the relations among latent variables. Initially, the right structure of devised measure is assured and, then, by introducing a concept called “invariance”, it is shown that the devised measure structure in both aerospace industries and knowledge-based centers measures the same traits. Finally, the relations among latent variables in both knowledge-based centers and aerospace industries are studied and compared through SEM.

Findings

Findings indicate that there is a significant and positive relationship between knowledge management and successful technology transfer effectiveness. Further relational and organizational capabilities as key factors and facilitators play a mediating role between knowledge management and technology transfer effectiveness.

Practical implications

According to the direct impact of knowledge management on successful technology transfer, it is appropriate that domestic managers in research centers and aerospace industries pay more attention to technology transfer and pave the ground for executing its processes and mechanisms.

Originality/value

In the model provided in the theoretical literature, the sequence of technology transfer is addressed more, while the capabilities of technology sender (university), technology receptor (industry), knowledge management and its influence role in technology transfer from university to industry are not considered.

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology: An International Journal, vol. 88 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0002-2667

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 11 July 2016

Adil Ahmed Dafa’Alla

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the contribution of the Sudanese manufacturing sector to the Sudanese economy and assess the role that aerospace industry, in…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the contribution of the Sudanese manufacturing sector to the Sudanese economy and assess the role that aerospace industry, in particular, can play as a driver for achieving sustainable development in the Sudan.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper reviewed and analysed the contribution of the industrial sector to the Sudanese economy based on the comprehensive industrial survey carried out with the assistance of United Nations Industrial Development Organisation and United Nations Development Programme in 2001. It then went on to assess the role that aerospace industry can play in improving the contribution of this sector to the Sudanese and regional economy and achieving sustainable development. Evidence from global industrial views, international economic reports and experience of other countries in similar situation as the Sudan was used to support arguments.

Findings

The Sudanese economy is agriculturally based. A heavy injection of industrialisation of the economy is essential in order to improve the trade balance and help the country out of the poverty zone. The aerospace industry is an important ingredient of the required dose as the global and regional demand is high and the flourishing regional economy is encouraging. The paper argues that building a flourishing aerospace industry as an important element of sustainable development plan for the Sudan is a shared responsibility of good government, quality education and well-guided investment.

Practical implications

The paper is proposing a practical way to transform the character of the Sudanese economy and help it to set on a sustainable development path that will alleviate poverty and improve the standard of living of its citizens.

Originality/value

The paper gives critical assessment of the role of the industrial sector in driving the Sudanese economy, which is seriously lacking in the literature. Additionally, the paper introduces building a flourishing aerospace industry in the Sudan as an important ingredient to boost the manufacturing sector, hence, improve the economy, fight poverty and a step towards achieving sustainable development.

Details

World Journal of Science, Technology and Sustainable Development, vol. 13 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2042-5945

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 April 2005

Hans Voordijk and Bert Meijboom

Firms in the aerospace industry face considerable pressure to improve co‐ordination in their supply chains. The major question of the present study is what supply chain…

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Abstract

Purpose

Firms in the aerospace industry face considerable pressure to improve co‐ordination in their supply chains. The major question of the present study is what supply chain co‐ordination strategies are dominant in the Dutch aerospace industry given the market environment of this industry?

Design/methodology/approach

Because information is the key ingredient for coordinating the supply chain in a given problem situation, an information processing point of view is adopted. In the empirical research, supply chain co‐ordination strategies are investigated for six Dutch‐based aerospace firms with different products and technologies.

Findings

It is concluded that in terms of the framework of Galbraith, co‐ordination strategies increasing the capacity to process information dominate supply chain management in the Dutch aerospace industry. The information‐processing capacity is increased by investing in lateral relations, long‐term planning and information systems between companies involved in the same supply chain.

Originality/value

Information is provided on Dutch aerospace firms' supply chain strategies.

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, vol. 77 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0002-2667

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 27 February 2007

Mostafa Jafari, Mehdi N. Fesharaki and Peyman Akhavan

The main objective of this paper is to investigate the role of knowledge management in aerospace industries and to provide a framework for knowledge management efforts specially

2091

Abstract

Purpose

The main objective of this paper is to investigate the role of knowledge management in aerospace industries and to provide a framework for knowledge management efforts specially designed for aerospace industries towards a knowledge‐based organization.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a conceptual article examining current perspectives of knowledge management regarding aerospace industries requirements. It provides a general framework for knowledge management applied in Iran Aerospace Industries Organization (AIO).

Findings

Providing a conceptual knowledge management framework can be applied to organizations practically. This framework has been applied in a large case study in Iran and is supported by practical implementation in AIO, one of the most important high‐tech industries in Iran.

Practical implications

This paper provides a very helpful guideline for practitioners in implementing knowledge management throughout the organizations and especially in large scale ones.

Originality/value

The paper may be of high value to researchers in the knowledge management field and to practitioners involved with KM adoption in the organizations. This study further opens up new lines of research and highlights implications for knowledge management efforts, including change management programs through KM tools. The paper also provides a synthesis and analysis of the viewpoints and the main factors as reflected in the literature on various dimensions of knowledge management.

Details

Journal of Knowledge Management, vol. 11 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1367-3270

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 April 1970

Klaus Peters

THE German aerospace industry faces the new decade with optimism. Even the budget restrictions announced recently which affect most parts of the industry cannot lessen that…

Abstract

THE German aerospace industry faces the new decade with optimism. Even the budget restrictions announced recently which affect most parts of the industry cannot lessen that impression. Some of the money not granted has only been frozen to avoid further overheating of the economy. In comparison with the aerospace industries of Great Britain — employing 240,000 people — and France — employing 100,000 people — the German aerospace industry with its 52,000 employees seems to be of less importance. This figure, however, is remarkable with regard to the fact that in 1956 this industry had to start from nothing. The airframe industry employs about 32,500, the space industry some 2,600, the engine industry about 6,200, the material and accessory industry 3,000 employees, and in the equipment industry another 7,200 people are working directly for the aerospace industry.

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, vol. 42 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0002-2667

Article
Publication date: 13 July 2012

W.W.A. Beelaerts van Blokland, M.A. Fiksiński, S.O.B. Amoa, S.C. Santema, G.‐J. van Silfhout and L. Maaskant

The traditional value chain has changed under the influence of globalisation, lean thinking and the value leverage towards suppliers in the supply chain. The leverage of value by…

3017

Abstract

Purpose

The traditional value chain has changed under the influence of globalisation, lean thinking and the value leverage towards suppliers in the supply chain. The leverage of value by the focal original equipment manufacturer (OEM)‐company to the supply chain has caused the focal OEM‐company to transform into a large‐scale system integrator (LSSI). The LSSI was defined according to the Petrick's definition. Indicators that measure the value‐leverage by these LSSI companies have not been found in literature. The purpose of this paper is to describe indicators that measure value‐leverage and illustrates that LSSI companies in the aerospace industry have a value‐leverage capability, using these indicators.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors' main research question is: “How to measure value‐leverage by LSSIs in the aerospace industry?”. As value‐leverage indicators have not been studied before, a literature study was carried out to develop a set of indicators which were tested in a quantitative analysis, using secondary data from 41 aerospace companies. Second, the value‐leverage indicators were applied to the aircraft LSSIs. The industry samples consisted of the global companies in the aircraft OEM industry and the relevant financial and company data were collected from the companies' public financial data, spanning a time frame of 14 years (1996 to 2009). A case study was performed on large‐scale aircraft system integrators, as a sample of the aerospace OEM industry, to demonstrate the effects of value‐leverage by aircraft LSSI companies.

Findings

With the new indicators, this research shows value leverage of aerospace OEMs and aircraft LSSIs as a sub group of the sample. The related indicators showed a change in leverage over time, indicating the leverage capability of aerospace OEMs. More in‐depth analysis on aircraft LSSI companies showed that aircraft LSSI with high correlation on the value‐leverage variables are more in value balance compared with aircraft LSSI companies scoring lower on the variables.

Research limitations/implications

This research has been limited to the aerospace OEMs. Data from secondary (public) sources were used, such as financial reports over a period of 14 years. Further research is necessary to develop indicators for other sectors of industries, such as automotive, medical instruments and construction, as well as to further improve the understanding of the outcomes of this study.

Practical implications

The new indicators measure value‐leverage of aerospace OEMs in general and aircraft LSSI companies. These companies could be compared on their capability of value‐leverage. Management of these firms can use the indicators to further improve their capability of value‐leverage on the supply chain regarding co‐development and co‐production of aircraft and related systems.

Social implications

It is useful for the executive management of aircraft LSSIs to balance the value leverage of their companies regarding R&D, customer demand and supply chain based production.

Originality/value

The paper identifies indicators that measure the capability of the aerospace OEMs to leverage value on supply chains. The found indicators form a preliminary model, which contributes to the usage of theories on lean manufacturing, supply chain management, value networks and open innovation.

Details

International Journal of Operations & Production Management, vol. 32 no. 8
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0144-3577

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 11 July 2019

Yaser Javed, Mohtashim Mansoor and Irtiza Ali Shah

Pressure, being one of the key variables investigated in scientific and engineering research, requires critical and accurate measurement techniques. With the advancements in…

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Abstract

Purpose

Pressure, being one of the key variables investigated in scientific and engineering research, requires critical and accurate measurement techniques. With the advancements in materials and machining technologies, there is a large leap in the measurement techniques including the development of micro electromechanical systems (MEMS) sensors. These sensors are one to two orders smaller in magnitude than traditional sensors and combine electrical and mechanical components that are fabricated using integrated circuit batch-processing technologies. MEMS are finding enormous applications in many industrial fields ranging from medical to automotive, communication to electronics, chemical to aviation and many more with a potential market of billions of dollars. MEMS pressure sensors are now widely used devices owing to their intrinsic properties of small size, light weight, low cost, ease of batch fabrication and integration with an electronic circuit. This paper aims to identify and analyze the common pressure sensing techniques and discuss their uses and advantages. As per our understanding, usage of MEMS pressure sensors in the aerospace industry is quite limited due to cost constraints and indirect measurement approaches owing to the inability to locate sensors in harsh environments. The purpose of this study is to summarize the published literature for application of MEMS pressure sensors in the said field. Five broad application areas have been investigated including: propulsion/turbomachinery applications, turbulent flow diagnosis, experimentalaerodynamics, micro-flow control and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)/micro aerial vehicle (MAV) applications.

Design/methodology/approach

The first part of the paper deals with an introduction to MEMS pressure sensors and mathematical relations for its fabrication. The second part covers pressure sensing principles followed by the application of MEMS pressure sensors in five major fields of aerospace industry.

Findings

In this paper, various pressure sensing principles in MEMS and applications of MEMS technology in the aerospace industry have been reviewed. Five application fields have been investigated including: Propulsion/Turbomachinery applications, turbulent flow diagnosis, experimental aerodynamics, micro-flow control and UAV/MAV applications. Applications of MEMS sensors in the aerospace industry are quite limited due to requirements of very high accuracy, high reliability and harsh environment survivability. However, the potential for growth of this technology is foreseen due to inherent features of MEMS sensors’ being light weight, low cost, ease of batch fabrication and capability of integration with electric circuits. All these advantages are very relevant to the aerospace industry. This work is an endeavor to present a comprehensive review of such MEMS pressure sensors, which are used in the aerospace industry and have been reported in recent literature.

Originality/value

As per the author’s understanding, usage of MEMS pressure sensors in the aerospace industry is quite limited due to cost constraints and indirect measurement approaches owing to the inability to locate sensors in harsh environments. Present work is a prime effort in summarizing the published literature for application of MEMS pressure sensors in the said field. Five broad application areas have been investigated including: propulsion/turbomachinery applications, turbulent flow diagnosis, experimental aerodynamics, micro-flow control and UAV/MAV applications.

Details

Sensor Review, vol. 39 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0260-2288

Keywords

1 – 10 of over 3000