Core Activity
Our activities in structural analysis apply to metal and composite materials, especially in the domain of aerospace:
In the event of sudden decompression (or depressurization) during flight, the safety of the occupants has to be ensured. Therefore, we need to estimate the loads, by computing the pressure differentials which are developed between the various compartments of the aircraft. This applies to large commercial aircraft, a business jet, or a VIP aircraft.
Heron Engineering has invested in research for the simulation of Rapid Decompression with CFD. We collaborate with our clients in this field, where we evaluate various scenarios.
Optimization pertains to shape or to minimizing weight of components, given imposed load and subjected to stress or/and displacement constrains. For metallic structures the variables for weight minimization are mainly the cross section areas of components while in composite structures this is translated to the number of composite plies. Other constraints could be frequency response, buckling, ease of fabrication, etc.
Heron Engineering in collaboration with the client sets up the optimization problem, taking into account behaviour and manufacturer constrains. This includes the determination of the objective function and of the independent design variables.
An important factor of safety is the correlation between simulation and test results. After the test campaign, the discrepancies between the model and the measured values have to be justified. We assist in the interpretation of the results and the validation of the simulation process. Depending on the outcome, if necessary we propose a more profound study. We also assist our client in the certification procedure, after the test’s validation.