Safran takes up the Big Data challenge

Why did you join Safran Analytics?

After a PhD in applied mathematics from the Institut National Polytechnique in Grenoble (France) and a career as a researcher in the field of new technologies applied to industry, first at the French National Institute for Computer Science and Applied Mathematics (INRIA) and then at Intel and Technicolor, I decided to join Safran Analytics as Technical Director. My mission within this new entity is to work with my technical team to design tools and infrastructure to gather, secure and analyze data within the Group. I decided to join Safran Analytics because mining the data produced in large quantities by our companies is a major factor for our industry in general and for Safran in particular. Big Data is a discipline that is poised to undergo an unprecedented acceleration in the industrial field.

 

What are the applications of Big Data in industry?

Big Data can provide solutions to complex and diverse problems. Take scrap rates for instance: by combining data collected on machines throughout the production chain, we can more easily understand the factors affecting the quality of a part and take quicker corrective action. Another example: by combining flight data with meteorological data, for instance, we can better understand wear on engine parts in actual conditions of use, anticipate part replacements for our customers as well as the costs associated with our service contracts. These same data can also be used to help airlines reduce their fuel consumption.

 

Why was a Big Data dedicated entity created within the Group?

Safran Analytics? mission is to assist Group companies in compiling and mining their data. Our role is to help them solve problems through data analysis and to become more proficient in this field.. Data are everywhere, and our experts have developed methods to process them effectively. Big Data is an additional growth lever to improve Safran?s performance and help the Group develop new businesses.