Harsh environment connectivity developer Souriau (www.souriau.com) and optical connectivity solution provider Stratos Optical Technologies (www.stratoslightwave.com) are among key component manufacturers to win contracts for Boeing’s new 787 Dreamliner.
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The next-generation passenger aircraft is built for fuel efficiency and features state-of-the-art avionics cockpit equipment using composite materials and innovative electronics/optical signal packaging.
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Souriau recently signed a 14-year agreement with electrical wire harness manufacturer Labinal, which includes providing connectors used for flight controls, engines, fuel tank sensors, and landing gear controls. To comply with the Dreamliner’s specific weight requirements, the connectors (pictured below, left) will feature casings made of composite materials that are 25% lighter than metal casings. In addition, Souriau will supply stainless steel connectors that will be placed in high-temperature environments.
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Stratos Optical Technologies, meanwhile, will provide a variety of optoelectronic, electronic, and electrical interconnect components for the Dreamliner. Specifically, the company’s optical transceivers (pictured above) will help enable cockpit video displays and graphics.
Production on the 787 began in June, with the airliner scheduled to go in to service in 2008.
