The University of Nottingham will have unlimited access to the Altair HyperWorks design and simulation and Altair RapidMiner data analytics and AI platforms as part of a new collaboration to develop a Digital Twin solution for new aircraft types.
Set to be the first of its kind, the digital twin is planned not as a technology demonstrator, but to be a fully-fledged solution for industry to rapidly design, validate, and test the electric propulsion systems of new aircraft or advanced air mobility (AAM) vehicles of the future.
The platforms will empower researchers with technology for AI-powered multiphysics and multi-domain simulation, along with full data analytics and machine learning technology to manage experimental data and close the loop between the digital and physical models.
In addition, the agreement also provides the university team with access to Altair’s high-performance computing (HPC) tools and unlimited training.
“Altair is committed to boosting innovation with a focus on next-generation sustainability in all sectors. This is why we partner with some of the most advanced universities and research centers in the world, like the University of Nottingham,” said Dr. Pietro Cervellera, senior VP aerospace and defense, Altair. “Through our leading technology and expertise, our ultimate aim is to develop groundbreaking new solutions that open new possibilities and advance sustainability in aerospace, transportation, and beyond.”
The move supports plans for the university’s new Zero Carbon Innovation Centre, co-funded by East Midlands Freeport, to build a complete digital twin of an electric propulsion system. Thanks to the vast possibilities Altair’s technology offers, the teams now have technology that spans energy storage (including batteries and fuel cells), power electronics and digital controllers, motors, cables, inverters, and the management of the systems’ thermal, power, and electromagnetic interference (EMI).
“We share Altair’s vision of accelerating the creation and delivery of innovations that can transform the technologies and systems we use every day,” said Chris Gerada, professor of electrical machines and lead for strategic research and innovation initiatives at the University of Nottingham.
“Altair’s technology will help us to accelerate the translation of zero carbon research into real-world industry solutions that decarbonise transportation. Paired with our leading strengths in electrification, hydrogen and manufacturing, this collaboration increases our capabilities and boosts Altair’s status as a key industry partner of choice for the university.”
Attached photo: From left to right: Tao Yang, associate professor of aircraft electrical systems, University of Nottingham; James Scapa, founder and CEO, Altair; Hitendra Hirani, sales director and general manager, University of Nottingham; Paolo Colombo, director of strategy, aerospace & defense, Altair; Chris Gerada, professor of electrical machines and lead for strategic research and innovation initiatives at the University of Nottingham.
