[2] TRW Highlights Pace-Setting Technologies At Airshow China 2000.

Business Editors/Hi-Tech Writers

ZHUHAI, China--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 6, 2000

TRW Aeronautical Systems (Lucas Aerospace) (NYSE:TRW) is highlighting many of its leading-edge technologies at Airshow China 2000 in Zhuhai, 6-12 November. The Company is located at Stand No. IB22 and Chalet A11 and has on display a wide range of next-generation products in the area of power generation, engine controls, flight controls, and cargo systems. Attendees can learn more about TRW's unrivalled systems expertise at its interactive display stations located on its stand.

Supporting the effort toward the more-electric aircraft, TRW Aeronautical Systems has developed a complete range of flight control power-by-wire alternatives from electrohydrostatic actuation (EHA), including its Integrated Actuation Package(TM) (IAP), to electromechanical actuation (EMA), with the aim of replacing the hydraulic power supply to primary and secondary flight controls with electric power. Conventional flight control actuation, known as fly-by-wire, is controlled electrically, but powered hydraulically. These systems rely on a complicated network of high-pressure hydraulic tubes running throughout the aircraft to supply the hydraulic pressure needed to move each control surface. The goal of power-by-wire is to significantly reduce or eliminate altogether the hydraulic connection, and its associated risks, by providing electrical power straight to the actuators. The benefits are enhanced survivability and aircraft maintainability and reduced weight and aircraft ground service time. The Company's EHA demonstrator model is on display at the stand. EHA technology has been base lined by Airbus for application on its new A3XX aircraft.

The move toward More Electric flight controls generates greater electrical power requirements. To provide this increased electrical power without offsetting the weight savings gained from More Electric flight controls, TRW is further developing its pioneering variable frequency generator, which generates higher power output without significantly increasing weight when replacing a conventional constant frequency system. Applying the experience gained from providing the world's first variable frequency electrical system on a civil jet aircraft, Bombardier's Global Express business jet, the Company is now focusing its efforts on developing a variable frequency system for large aircraft. The variable frequency generating solution removes system complexity by eliminating the hydro-mechanical constant speed drive required in conventional constant frequency systems. The result is increased reliability and reduced weight and cost. TRW Aeronautical Systems is currently involved in a number of demonstration programmes proving the viability of variable frequency systems for large aircraft applications and has more than two years of successful testing behind it. Airbus has base lined variable frequency generation also for application on its A3XX. The VF system is on display at the stand.

Another area of focus is TRW Aeronautical Systems' engine controls. The Company is displaying its new FADEC (Full Authority Digital Engine Control) 2001, which is designed to meet the cost targets and timescales of the business and regional jet markets and is expected to enter service in 2001. Rugged and reliable, the low-cost FADEC controls engine fuel flow by interfacing with the fuel metering unit and controls engine variable geometry via actuators. This innovative system is also capable of controlling other standard engine functions. The low-cost FADEC has full built-in test and maintenance software, and utilises both low-cost hardware and software making it a viable option for business aircraft operators.

TRW Aeronautical Systems is also displaying its next-generation cargo power drive unit (PDU). The new PDU, which drives aircraft cargo containers into position, features an anti-scrub sensor to decrease roller wear, as well as electronic temperature sensing and electronic switching which eliminates mechanical thermostats, thus increasing reliability. The PDU also allows for roller replacement without PDU removal and incorporates an automatically resetable thermal protector.

The Company has a multitude of other products on display representing its other core businesses including a Rolls-Royce Trent series fuel pump and metering unit, externally mounted personnel rescue hoist, and a rotating model of its power transmission shaft.

TRW Aeronautical Systems (Lucas Aerospace) provides the global aerospace industry with high integrity systems and equipment in engine controls, flight controls, missile systems, power generation and management, cargo handling, hoists and winches, and flexible shafts and couplings, all backed by a worldwide customer support organization. For Company news and information, visit www.trw-aeronautical.com.

TRW Inc. provides high-technology products and services to the automotive, aerospace and information technology markets worldwide. The Company's news releases are available through TRW's corporate Web site at www.trw.com.