Altair and UK's University of Nottingham team on eVTOL digital twin project

July 24, 2024
These platforms will facilitate AI-powered multiphysics and multi-domain simulation, and provide full data analytics and machine learning capabilities to manage experimental data and integrate digital and physical models.

TROY, Mich. - Altair in Troy, Mich. announced it has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the University of Nottingham in the United Kingdom to develop a digital twin project for the aerospace sector. This digital twin aims to design, validate, and test electric propulsion systems for new aircraft and advanced air mobility (AAM) vehicles, and evaluate the retrofit of existing ones.

 The agreement grants University of Nottingham researchers access to Altair’s HyperWorks design and simulation and RapidMiner data analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) platforms. These platforms will facilitate AI-powered multiphysics and multi-domain simulation, and provide full data analytics and machine learning capabilities to manage experimental data and integrate digital and physical models. Additionally, the university team will have access to Altair's high-performance computing 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 vice president of aerospace and defense at 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."

Related: Altair acquires Research in Flight

"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 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 decarbonize 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."

The MoU supports the capabilities of the university's new Zero Carbon Innovation Centre, co-funded by East Midlands Freeport, to build a digital twin of an electric propulsion system. Altair's technology will aid in the development of energy storage, power electronics, digital controllers, motors, cables, inverters, and the management of thermal, power, and electromagnetic interference (EMI) systems.

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