VLJ's Design, Production Planning Simulated Digitally

The newest very-light-jet has started to take shape in Brazil. Embraer reports that the first Phenom 100 fuselage and wing have been completed at the Company's Botucatu plant, in outstate Sao Paulo. The aircraft is now at the Sao Jose dos Campos facility for wing-fuselage mating, and final assembly.

As Aero-News reported earlier this week, the two PW617 Pratt & Whitney Canada engines have also been received by Embraer. The light turbofans are due to be installed in April.

"We are thrilled to announce yet another key milestone in the Phenom 100 program," said Luis Carlos Affonso, Embraer Executive Vice-President, Executive Jets. "The advanced technology applied to the Phenom 100 product design and manufacturing has enabled a smooth assembly of the fuselage and wings, and we have already begun the production of the second aircraft."

Embraer notes the design and production planning of the Phenom jets are entirely digital. The manufacturing of all primary parts was simulated via a digital manufacturing, and virtual numeric-control software.

After simulation, the main structures of the first Phenom 100 were built with an automated riveting machine.

With the advance of the final assembly of the first jet, the main fuselage sections and structures of the second Phenom 100 aircraft have begun the initial assembly process.

FMI: www.embraer.com