Boeing initiates changes to 787 power panel. Revised schedule due in a "few weeks"

Boeing announced (24-Nov-2010) it is developing minor design changes to power distribution panels on the B787 and updates to system software that manages and protects power distribution on the aircraft. These changes come as the result of what has been learned from the investigation of an onboard electrical fire on a test aircraft, ZA002, earlier this month. Engineers have determined that the fault began as either a short circuit or an electrical arc in the P100 power distribution panel, most likely caused by the presence of foreign debris. The design changes will improve the protection within the panel. Software changes also will be implemented to further improve fault protection. The B787 team is now assessing the time required to complete the design changes and software updates that are being developed. A revised B787 program schedule is expected to be finalised in the next few weeks. [more]