Econ Engineering’s new Virtual Blade Model (VBM) offers a significant competitive advantage to the aviation industry. By leveraging AI technologies, the new VBM accurately simulates propeller-induced airflow, making aircraft design more efficient and reducing development costs. This opens up new opportunities for the aviation industry.
Supported by the National Research, Development, and Innovation Fund (NKFIH Alap), Econ’s Virtual Blade Model (VBM) uses an innovative combination of AI and statistical methods to improve the accuracy and efficiency of engineering simulations.
About the Virtual Blade Model
Recognized among the successful projects of the National RDI Office (NKFIH), the Virtual Blade Model is significant in that it considers the propeller-induced airflow during aircraft flow simulations; its impact on the airframe structure, and the interactions between the airframe and the propeller. The precise simulation of the airflow generated by propellers supports the design process, reduces development time and costs, and promotes the introduction of safer and more efficient aircraft to the market.
Benefits of the Virtual Blade Model
By utilizing artificial intelligence, Econ’s VBM model is capable of modeling complex propeller-induced flow patterns more accurately and quickly than previous methods. The data obtained this way can be used to optimize aircraft performance and aerodynamic characteristics.
Faster development: Thanks to simulations, fewer physical prototypes are required, significantly reducing development and go-to-market time.
Greater efficiency: Due to more accurate simulations aircraft fuel consumption can be decreased while improving performance.
Cost-effective development: Design errors and flaws can be identified earlier through simulations, thus avoiding costly redesigns.
Virtual Blade Model in Reality
The results obtained from virtual simulations have been successfully validated through real-world flight testing thanks to the collaboration between Econ and the aircraft manufacturer Altus Aero. During their joint project, Econ conducted simulation calculations and measurements, leading to the optimization of certain components, such as the air intake.
Applications of the Virtual Blade Model
Beyond light aircraft, this technology has applications in designing various vehicles with rotating components, such as helicopters and wind turbines.
“We see the VBM as a stepping stone to further advancements in simulation technology. Our goal is to drive global engineering excellence and contribute to a sustainable future,” said Gábor Zipszer, the project leader of VBM and Econ’s CFD simulation engineer.
Econ Engineering’s team is committed to supporting industrial development with innovative and efficient solutions.
