Trailblazing Silent Skies: Brazilian Scientists Nominated For European Inventor Award

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Innovative Minds from Embraer’s Silent Aircraft Program Lead Sustainable Aviation Advances

Embraer’s pioneering scientists, Micael Carmo and Fernando Catalano, have been selected as finalists for the prestigious European Inventor Award 2024. Representing the Brazilian aeronautics industry, these visionaries are recognized in the ‘Non-EPO Countries’ category by the European Patent Office (EPO) for their significant contributions to sustainable aviation.

Chosen from over 550 candidates, Carmo and Catalano will represent Embraer and the University of São Paulo (USP) at the award ceremony on July 9 in Malta. Their groundbreaking work in Embraer’s “Silent Aircraft Program” has dramatically reduced the noise footprint of the E2 jets by 65%, alongside cutting CO2 emissions by 25% per passenger, with potential reductions reaching 85% using 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).

Revolutionizing Aircraft Noise Reduction

The Silent Aircraft Program, a collaboration between Embraer, FAPESP, and FINEP, involved over 200 researchers across multiple countries. This initiative, started in 2006, focuses on minimizing the aerodynamic noise generated by aircraft. The efforts have resulted in numerous patents and significant advancements in noise reduction technologies for Embraer’s new generation jets.

“Being finalists in the European Inventor Award is a tremendous honor for Embraer and the Brazilian scientific community,” said Henrique Langenegger, Embraer Chief Engineer. “This recognition underscores the importance of collaboration between industry and academia in driving innovations that enhance our quality of life.”

Key Contributors to Aeronautical Innovation

Micael Carmo, a Mechanical Engineering graduate with a Master’s in Acoustics, has been a vital contributor to Embraer’s interiors, noise, and vibration department for over two decades. He co-invented seven patents related to aerodynamic noise reduction and has been integral to the Silent Aircraft Program since its inception.

Fernando Catalano, a leading expert in aerodynamics and experimental aeroacoustics, has been with the São Carlos School of Engineering at USP since 1982. As a former head of the Aeronautical Engineering Department, his research has significantly advanced wind tunnel design, drag mitigation strategies, and wing aerodynamics.

Global Collaboration for a Quieter Future

The Brazilian Silent Aircraft Program’s international collaboration includes top research institutions like the University of Twente, Imperial College London, the University of Southampton, and the German Aerospace Center (DLR). The program’s comprehensive approach combines experimental flight tests, analytical and empirical modeling, and computational aeroacoustics to refine aircraft geometry and reduce noise.

Celebrating Innovation at the European Inventor Award

The European Inventor Award, organized by the EPO, honors individuals and teams who address significant global challenges through innovation. An independent jury of former finalists evaluates the nominees based on technical progress, social impact, and economic contribution. This year’s winners will be announced on July 9 in Malta, celebrating groundbreaking achievements in various fields.

By: Katerina Urbanova, EIC ACE
Source: Embraer
Pictures copyright: Embraer