The German 4JET Group and Japan based Nikon Corporation announced a joint development agreement to accelerate innovation and deployment of laser-based riblet technology.
Mimicking the skin of a shark by laser treatment of the aircraft surface allows to reduce fuel burn and CO2 emissions by up to 2% (Picture: 4Jet)
Riblet technology is inspired by the small grooves on the skin of a shark that help the fish travel more efficiently through the water. Riblet processing uses lasers to create customized micro-structures on an object or surface that decrease air and water resistance, and thereby increase energy efficiency. Riblets are highly effective in reducing drag in airplanes.
A key focus of the Nikon Vision 2030 plan is leveraging innovative technology and manufacturing to build environmentally friendly systems, and Nikon placed a strategic emphasis on digital manufacturing solutions, including riblet processing, toward that initiative. The development and integration of riblet technology creates the opportunitie to enhance the efficiency of aircraft travel by reducing fuel consumption and lower CO2 emissions. Nikon is actively engaged with airline partners to demonstrate and optimize riblet capabilities and presented first findings during the last IntAIRCOAT conference in Seville, Spain in June 2023.
Jörg Jetter, CEO of 4JET, said, “Our ongoing engagement and joint development program leverage the successful combination of industry-leading 4JET laser interference patterning technology with vast Nikon expertise in optical processing, riblet technology and computational fluid dynamics. We are excited to work together with industry partners to realize the enormous potential of laser-based riblet technology across a variety of applications.”
Yuichi Shibazaki, Nikon Corporate Vice President, commented, “The 4JET team has extensive knowledge and capabilities in advanced laser materials processing, as well as a strong reputation and global market leadership across industries. Their technology and growth pipeline align well with the Nikon portfolio and objectives, and together we will accelerate riblet development to provide more energy efficient and sustainable industrial solutions.”
More information: www.4jet.de