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Projects

 

Bonded Wing Box Survivability Demonstration Program

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: 1.1 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

Le projet a permis le développement d'une technologie de thermoformage par injection de résine dans un moule fermé, éliminant le besoin d'attacher les piéces par des rivets. Un procédé complexe qui entraîne des économies substantielles ...

Bonded Wing Box Survivability Demonstration Program

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: 1.1 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

Le projet a permis le développement d'une technologie de thermoformage par injection de résine dans un moule fermé, éliminant le besoin d'attacher les piéces par des rivets. Un procédé complexe qui entraîne des économies substantielles dans les étapes d'assemblage, tout en augmentant la solidité des composantes. Le transfert de cette nouvelle technologie a rehaussé considérablement les capacités technologi_ques de Delastek, une PME de Grand-Mére, qui est ainsi devenu un fournisseur de premier oÎ'dre pour l'ensemble de l'industrie aéronautique, la construction des bateaux et d'autres véhicules spéciaux. Cette transformation est une premiére pour l'industrie aéronautique canadienne et un modéle à reproduire. D'aprés M. R. Fews, responsable du projet chez Bell Helicopter, « Le caisson de voilure que nous obtenons grâce à cette méthode est non seulement beaucoup plus léger, mais il se révéle aussi plus résistant. Nous avons notamment testé sa résistance aux impacts comme les oiseaux, les balles et les roches ... De plus, le contrôle de la qualité en usine est grandement facilité et les coûts de fabrication réduits. C'est un caisson idéal pour équiper notre nouvelle génération d'avions à rotor inclinable qui ont la particularité de voler comme un avion, mais de décoller et d'atterrir comme un hélicoptére et dont la mise en service est prévue pour 2010 ». L'équipe de recherche est impliquée dans trois autres projets du CRIAQ touchant les composites, d'une valeur totale de 1,9 M$. Un de ces projets a débuté en juillet 2004, le second en octobre 2006 et le troisiéme est en préparation pour débuter fin 2007.

Induction hardening of bevel gears for aerospace applications

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: 1.12 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

The aim of this project is to investigate the induction hardening behaviour of aeronautic martensitic steels in order to control the hardening patterns and predict the field performance of manufactured gears. Futhermore, the model will be used to develop contour hardening on bevel gears.

Induction hardening of bevel gears for aerospace applications

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: 1.12 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

The aim of this project is to investigate the induction hardening behaviour of aeronautic martensitic steels in order to control the hardening patterns and predict the field performance of manufactured gears.

Futhermore, the model will be used to develop contour hardening on bevel gears.

Development of carbon/epoxy composites with high electrical conductivity and electromagnetic shielding effectiveness for aircraft applications

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: 1.14 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

This project is to develop methods to make composite materials that are electrically conductive to provide protection for electrical components contained inside composite boxes against electrical spike coming from different sources inside and outside of an aircraft

Development of carbon/epoxy composites with high electrical conductivity and electromagnetic shielding effectiveness for aircraft applications

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: 1.14 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

This project is to develop methods to make composite materials that are electrically conductive to provide protection for electrical components contained inside composite boxes against electrical spike coming from different sources inside and outside of an aircraft

Optimized Design of Composite Parts by Resin Transfer Molding

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: 1.15 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

The goal is to develop an optimized design, analysis and manufacturing process for composite materials, using the Resin Transfer Moulding (RTM) process as a technology demonstrator. An expert system will be developed which will integrate and optimize the RTM process.

Optimized Design of Composite Parts by Resin Transfer Molding

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: 1.15 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

The goal is to develop an optimized design, analysis and manufacturing process for composite materials, using the Resin Transfer Moulding (RTM) process as a technology demonstrator. An expert system will be developed which will integrate and optimize the RTM process.

Development of Intelligent Health Monitoring System for Rotating Machinery and Structural Components

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: 1.18 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

General Objectives Development of an on-line health monitoring system capable of detecting and identifying faults during engine operation as well as detecting component subsurface damage, and monitoring of the fault and its progression using Non Destructive Testing (NDT) s...

Development of Intelligent Health Monitoring System for Rotating Machinery and Structural Components

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: 1.18 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

General Objectives

Development of an on-line health monitoring system capable of detecting and identifying faults during engine operation as well as detecting component subsurface damage, and monitoring of the fault and its progression using Non Destructive Testing (NDT) sensors.

Their performance will be demonstrated using simulated, experimental and operating condition data.

Development of Low-Cost Aircraft Structural Components using High-Performance Thermoplastic Composites

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: 1.2 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

Development of Low-Cost Aircraft Structural Components using High-Performance Thermoplastic Composites

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: 1.2 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

Erosion Resistant Coatings for Aerospace

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: 1.20 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

The CRIAQ 1.20 Project focused on novel protective coatings for aerospace applications with the main aim to improve erosion- and corrosion resistance and other functional characteristics of the compressor blades and of the leading edge of helicopter rotors.

Erosion Resistant Coatings for Aerospace

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: 1.20 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

The CRIAQ 1.20 Project focused on novel protective coatings for aerospace applications with the main aim to improve erosion- and corrosion resistance and other functional characteristics of the compressor blades and of the leading edge of helicopter rotors.

Development of Brazing Process Applied to Martensitic and Austenitic Stainless Steels and Nickel Superalloys

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: 1.7 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

This project studied the behaviour of commercially available brazing alloys for joining different stainless steels and Nickel superalloys used in gas turbine engines, on structural and non-structural joints. Characterization of the brazed joints was also performed.

Development of Brazing Process Applied to Martensitic and Austenitic Stainless Steels and Nickel Superalloys

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: 1.7 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

This project studied the behaviour of commercially available brazing alloys for joining different stainless steels and Nickel superalloys used in gas turbine engines, on structural and non-structural joints. Characterization of the brazed joints was also performed.

Optimization of High Performance Machining of Light Alloy Aerospace Components

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: 1.8 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

Aerospace manufacturing requires a significant proportion of machining of light alloy components. High performance machining will be studied using experimental and model based approaches to optimize machine and process parameters for high speed machining.

Optimization of High Performance Machining of Light Alloy Aerospace Components

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: 1.8 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

Aerospace manufacturing requires a significant proportion of machining of light alloy components. High performance machining will be studied using experimental and model based approaches to optimize machine and process parameters for high speed machining.

Improving the Acoustic Environment in Fixed Wing and Rotary Wing Aircraft

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: 2.2 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

This project is the response to the recognition that the noise level is one of the most important factors contributing to the passenger perception of cabin comfort, in both fixed wing aircraft and helicopters.

Improving the Acoustic Environment in Fixed Wing and Rotary Wing Aircraft

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: 2.2 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

This project is the response to the recognition that the noise level is one of the most important factors contributing to the passenger perception of cabin comfort, in both fixed wing aircraft and helicopters.

Low-Energy Ice Protection System Applied to Small Rotorcraft

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: 2.8 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

Given the present state of knowledge and scientific advancement in de-icing technologies, the development of a low energy de-icing or anti-icing system for rotor blades with the capability of operating in icing conditions, constitutes a challenge in itself. Therefore, finding novel technologies an...

Low-Energy Ice Protection System Applied to Small Rotorcraft

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: 2.8 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

Given the present state of knowledge and scientific advancement in de-icing technologies, the development of a low energy de-icing or anti-icing system for rotor blades with the capability of operating in icing conditions, constitutes a challenge in itself.

Therefore, finding novel technologies and new designs applicable to a rotor blade de-icing system would constitute a breakthrough for all aeronautical and transportation industries for which ice can cause problems, for example: motor intakes, wings during low-altitude flights, unmanned aircraft, etc.

Impact Modeling of Composite Aircraft Structures

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: 3.1 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

The existing approach to flight object impact (e.g. bird strike) certification is conducted through physical testing. Developing design methodologies based on predictive numerical simulation methods for the high velocity impact would enhance our capability in predicting failure modes and optimizing ...

Impact Modeling of Composite Aircraft Structures

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: 3.1 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

The existing approach to flight object impact (e.g. bird strike) certification is conducted through physical testing. Developing design methodologies based on predictive numerical simulation methods for the high velocity impact would enhance our capability in predicting failure modes and optimizing structural design.

Integration of Real-Time Flight Simulation and Computational Fluid Dynamics

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: 3.2 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

The project deals with the quantification of the real-time flight simulation models using state-of-the-art computational flight dynamics techniques in lieu of actual flight test data. Although such approach has wide range of applications, the proposed work will concentrate on the training flight sim...

Integration of Real-Time Flight Simulation and Computational Fluid Dynamics

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: 3.2 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

The project deals with the quantification of the real-time flight simulation models using state-of-the-art computational flight dynamics techniques in lieu of actual flight test data. Although such approach has wide range of applications, the proposed work will concentrate on the training flight simulators.

Development of Global Model Parameter Estimation Technology

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: 3.4 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

New technologies will be developed to improve the generation of helicopter aerodynamic mathematical models from flight test data using parameter estimation techniques. Methods will be established to employ non-intrusive smart sensor flight test instrumentation systems for these applications. The r...

Development of Global Model Parameter Estimation Technology

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: 3.4 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

New technologies will be developed to improve the generation of helicopter aerodynamic mathematical models from flight test data using parameter estimation techniques.

Methods will be established to employ non-intrusive smart sensor flight test instrumentation systems for these applications. The reduction in the number of test flight will result from this research.

MOSAIC - Multidisciplinary Optimization Standardization Approach for Integration and Configurability

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: 4.1 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

The current project, entitled MOSAIC (Multidisciplinary Optimization Standardization Approach for Integration and Configurability), aims to provide the industrial participants with powerful integration technologies and to demonstrate the capabilities of multidisciplinary optimization in the design o...

MOSAIC - Multidisciplinary Optimization Standardization Approach for Integration and Configurability

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: 4.1 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

The current project, entitled MOSAIC (Multidisciplinary Optimization Standardization Approach for Integration and Configurability), aims to provide the industrial participants with powerful integration technologies and to demonstrate the capabilities of multidisciplinary optimization in the design of aerospace systems.

The project involves three main classes of tasks:
1) The development of data exchange protocols allowing a seamless integration of
analyses and optimization software in an MDO context;
2) The development of specialized analysis and optimization software tailored for MDO;
3) The integration of analysis and optimization software into MDO systems adaptable to
the needs of the industrial participants.

Product Design Optimization With Integration Of Computational Tools

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: 4.14 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

Product Design Optimization With Integration Of Computational Tools

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: 4.14 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

IP2CM - Integrated Product-Process Change Management

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: 4.3 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

Models, methods and tools for integrated change management throughout product lifecycles: propagating engineering changes to manufacturing documents. Aerospace product development is an iterative process involving various information systems and expertise. This projects aims at defining, developing...

IP2CM - Integrated Product-Process Change Management

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: 4.3 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

Models, methods and tools for integrated change management throughout product lifecycles: propagating engineering changes to manufacturing documents. Aerospace product development is an iterative process involving various information systems and expertise.

This projects aims at defining, developing and validating models, methods and tools that will provide the interoperability required to achieve an integrated product and process change management throughout a product life cycle. Developing such a generic interoperability mechanisms between the involved systems will impact costs, quality and lead-times, and hence improve the productivity and competitiveness of industry.

Process Modeling Tools Development for the Virtual Manufacturing of Aerospace Components by Tube Hydroforming

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: 4.6_Plan B /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

Tube hydroforming is a new manufacturing technology that offers significant advantages and provide high quality products at lower life cost values. It may be critical to aerospace industry but is not yet fully exploited due to a lack of extensive knowledge base for process and tool design and whose ...

Process Modeling Tools Development for the Virtual Manufacturing of Aerospace Components by Tube Hydroforming

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: 4.6_Plan B /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

Tube hydroforming is a new manufacturing technology that offers significant advantages and provide high quality products at lower life cost values. It may be critical to aerospace industry but is not yet fully exploited due to a lack of extensive knowledge base for process and tool design and whose development is required.

Process Modeling Tools Development and Manufacturing of Aerospace Components by Tube Hydroforming, Part II

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: 4.6 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

L'hydroformage de tubes est une technologie de fabrication relativement nouvelle qui offre des avantages significatifs dont un poids réduit et des produits de qualité supérieure à des coûts inférieurs. Sa principale caractéristique est l'usage...

Process Modeling Tools Development and Manufacturing of Aerospace Components by Tube Hydroforming, Part II

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: 4.6 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

L'hydroformage de tubes est une technologie de fabrication relativement nouvelle qui offre des avantages significatifs dont un poids réduit et des produits de qualité supérieure à des coûts inférieurs.

Sa principale caractéristique est l'usage d'un fluide pressurisé pour l'expansion du tube dans un moule. La technologie a été adoptée par l'industrie automobile où elle est maintenant considérée comme un procédé de fabrication compétitif pour la production de masse.

Drawingless Product Development Process

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: 4.7 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

Drawingless Product Development Process

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: 4.7 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

Dynamic Test Bed for Flight Management Systems

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: 5.3 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

Dynamic Test Bed for Flight Management Systems

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: 5.3 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

Exploring Formal Methods in Model-Driven Development of Certified Avionics Software

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: 5.5 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

Model-driven development (MDD) is a reality in modern software development, yet the constraints on software certification under DO-178B pose research challenges when applying formal methods. We seek to reduce the costs of certified avionics software using MDD and formal methods.

Exploring Formal Methods in Model-Driven Development of Certified Avionics Software

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: 5.5 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

Model-driven development (MDD) is a reality in modern software development, yet the constraints on software certification under DO-178B pose research challenges when applying formal methods. We seek to reduce the costs of certified avionics software using MDD and formal methods.

Architecture exploration for high-integrated and low-cost avionic systems

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: 5.6_Plan C /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

Modern avionics systems are software-intensive systems composed of a network of heterogeneous distributed embedded processors. These safety-critical systems must exhibit a series of quality attributes, among the most important being the system safety, reliability and fault-tolerance. Organizations...

Architecture exploration for high-integrated and low-cost avionic systems

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: 5.6_Plan C /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

Modern avionics systems are software-intensive systems composed of a network of heterogeneous distributed embedded processors. These safety-critical systems must exhibit a series of quality attributes, among the most important being the system safety, reliability and fault-tolerance.

Organizations developing modern avionic systems face numerous challenges. Among them is the need to choose and exploit the right infrastructure technologies to architect product lines addressing the requirements of multiple customers. This research project will address some of these challenges, with an emphasis on the architectural impact of important components of the technological infrastructure: the system configuration, the operating system and the communication network.

The V-Model (Figure 1) is a system development model designed to simplify the understanding of the complexity associated with developing systems. Considering this V-Model, the proposed project concentrates on the Requirements and Architecture stage.

Microsystems for in situ Health Monitoring of Aircraft

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: 6.1 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

"http://www.criaq.aero/media/articles/6-1.jpg"title="Link to poster"target="_blank">See poster of the project (May 2013)

Microsystems for in situ Health Monitoring of Aircraft

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: 6.1 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

"http://www.criaq.aero/media/articles/6-1.jpg"title="Link to poster"target="_blank">See poster of the project (May 2013)

MEMS for Control and Monitoring of Gas Turbine Engines

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: 6.2 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

This project is divided in two sub-projects: Pressure MEMS sensors for GTE applications and Temperature MEMS arrays for GTE applications. This last portion is already completed. The effort over the past 6 months was directed mainly towards the MEMS demonstrator. A detection system comprising two d...

MEMS for Control and Monitoring of Gas Turbine Engines

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: 6.2 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

This project is divided in two sub-projects: Pressure MEMS sensors for GTE applications and Temperature MEMS arrays for GTE applications. This last portion is already completed.

The effort over the past 6 months was directed mainly towards the MEMS demonstrator. A detection system comprising two dynamic pressure sensors and two temperature sensors in a redundant configuration have been built in 10 prototypes. The design and the realization of the sensor did follow the specs of the product produced by PWC. The 10 systems have been tested to temperature and vibrations according to the specs provided by PWC.

One of the system was installed on the engine (bell mouth) in the test rig and used to measure the fan RPM against the present measurement system that is quite heavy. A significant accomplishment was possible through the excellent collaboration among PWC, Concordia and ETS. The team has requested a six mount delay without any budget change to complete task 11: Implement the micro sensors for testing on the ground equipment. And task 12: Refinement of the design, packaging and test which is completed at 80%.

Two international collaborations where developped during that project, one with Louvain-la-Neuve and one with The Catholic University of Brussels both from Belgium.
2 research associates, 2 post-doc, 2 Ph.D, 1 M.Sc.A and 8 B.Sc.A. participated in this project.

Laminar Flow Improvement on an Aeroelastic Research Wing

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: 7.1 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

This project aims to investigate the design and to demonstrate the feasibility of an aeroelastic aircraft wing capable of modifying its geometry in real-time during flight in order to optimize the performance of the aircraft for a range of flight conditions.

Laminar Flow Improvement on an Aeroelastic Research Wing

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: 7.1 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

This project aims to investigate the design and to demonstrate the feasibility of an aeroelastic aircraft wing capable of modifying its geometry in real-time during flight in order to optimize the performance of the aircraft for a range of flight conditions.

Development of new liner technologies and local expertise for characterization and fabrication of nacelle acoustic treatments

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: ACOU-1 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

Pratt & Whitney Canada experience in nacelle acoustic treatments shows that extensive efforts are still required to ensure that liners are fabricated according to acceptable standards and to ensure that the liners acoustic performance are met. The project addresses these requirements (i) by develo...

Development of new liner technologies and local expertise for characterization and fabrication of nacelle acoustic treatments

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: ACOU-1 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

Pratt & Whitney Canada experience in nacelle acoustic treatments shows that extensive efforts are still required to ensure that liners are fabricated according to acceptable standards and to ensure that the liners acoustic performance are met.

The project addresses these requirements (i) by developing a local facility to fabricate and characterize nacelle treatments and (ii) by exploring and developing new liners technologies.

Active control of transmission noise in helicopters

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: ACOU-2 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

In a continuation to the previous CRIAQ 2.2 project, this project is directed to develop an active control system for drive noise reduction for demonstration on board of a helicopter. The goal is to validate the effectiveness of active control in the real environment.The general objective is...

Active control of transmission noise in helicopters

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: ACOU-2 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

In a continuation to the previous CRIAQ 2.2 project, this project is directed to develop an active control system for drive noise reduction for demonstration on board of a helicopter.

The goal is to validate the effectiveness of active control in the real environment.The general objective is to extend the laboratory active control system that was developed under CRIAQ 2.2 to a system capable of flight demonstration that will allow engineering demonstration of the feasibility of the system in the real environment.

While the Bell 407 continues to be the test platform for this research project, the project also looks at what challenges would need to be addressed in order to adapt this technology to other helicopter platforms considering the significant differences in drive systems and structural paths.

Sound field rendering in aircraft cabins

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: ACOU-3 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

When it comes to acoustic comfort of an aircraft, usual engineering metrics (based upon A-weighted Sound Pressure Levels or Speech Interference Levels) do not "tell the whole story". In this respect, it would be very useful to be able to "hear" the ambiance of an aircraft cabin before it flies, an...

Sound field rendering in aircraft cabins

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: ACOU-3 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

When it comes to acoustic comfort of an aircraft, usual engineering metrics (based upon A-weighted Sound Pressure Levels or Speech Interference Levels) do not "tell the whole story".

In this respect, it would be very useful to be able to "hear" the ambiance of an aircraft cabin before it flies, and "hear" the impact of planned modification or acoustic treatment before it is actually implemented. Similarly, sound reproduction in cockpit simulators is considered an essential component to a virtual environment that adds ambience, emotion, and a sense of presence to the simulation for pilot training.

See poster of the project (May 2013)

Embedded Damping Elements in Composites (EDEC)

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: ACOU-4 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

The general objective is to develop a low-cost, low-weight, low-noise composite that will satisfy helicopter industry requirements. The specific objectives of the projects are as follows: +Identify and characterize vibro-acoustic treatment materials that will be compatible with the composite...

Embedded Damping Elements in Composites (EDEC)

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: ACOU-4 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

The general objective is to develop a low-cost, low-weight, low-noise composite that will satisfy helicopter industry requirements. The specific objectives of the projects are as follows:
+Identify and characterize vibro-acoustic treatment materials that will be compatible with the composite manufacturing processes, and that will allow the component to maintain its strength, its stiffness, its damage tolerance, its ability to be finished and its ability to be repaired.
+ Develop a composite material vibro-acoustic damping treatment capable of yielding high vibration attenuation and high acoustic insulation for frequencies of 10 – 2 000 Hz.
+ Predict vibration insertion loss and acoustic transmission loss from numerical model simulations.
+ Verify and quantify experimentally the actual vibration and noise attenuations achieved on representative prototypes.
+ Verify and quantify experimentally the mechanical behavior and fatigue damage of the prototypes.
+ Provide design guidelines and implementation procedures for industrialization purposes.

SOFTAIR (Experimental and numerical aeroacoustic study of airplane pressurization valves to reduce their noise in different flight conditions)

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: ACOU-503_INTL /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

Caractérisation aéroacoustique expérimentale et numérique de vannes de pressurisation aéronautiques en vue de réduire leur bruit dans les différentes phases de vol. ...

SOFTAIR (Experimental and numerical aeroacoustic study of airplane pressurization valves to reduce their noise in different flight conditions)

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: ACOU-503_INTL /Status: Completed Project

International collaboration: France

Program: Exploring Technology /Sub-program: International

Caractérisation aéroacoustique expérimentale et numérique de vannes de pressurisation aéronautiques en vue de réduire leur bruit dans les différentes phases de vol.
See poster of the project (May 2013)

Structural-Acoustic Protection for sandwich-composite structures

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: ACOU-504_INTL /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

The main objective is to develop add-on sound acoustic protection of launchers payloads under constraints. The structural-acoustic performances (joint optimization of the composite structure and the acoustic blanket) in low-mid frequencies will be achieved.

Structural-Acoustic Protection for sandwich-composite structures

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: ACOU-504_INTL /Status: Completed Project

International collaboration: France

Program: Exploring Technology /Sub-program: International

The main objective is to develop add-on sound acoustic protection of launchers payloads under constraints. The structural-acoustic performances (joint optimization of the composite structure and the acoustic blanket) in low-mid frequencies will be achieved.

An IoT Platform for Disaster Response

Theme: UAVs AND AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES

Acronym: AUT-1629_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project /Program: Maturing Technology

This project aims to introduce new emerging technologies to the aerospace arena, while also contributing to areas of research. Today, rising trends in the aerospace industry are include in the areas of automation, miniaturization, overall mission cost reduction, reduction of energy footprint. This p...

An IoT Platform for Disaster Response

Theme: UAVs AND AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES

Acronym: AUT-1629_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project

Program: Maturing Technology

This project aims to introduce new emerging technologies to the aerospace arena, while also contributing to areas of research. Today, rising trends in the aerospace industry are include in the areas of automation, miniaturization, overall mission cost reduction, reduction of energy footprint. This project will contribute to opening new frontiers in all of those areas mentioned. But more importantly, the project aims to introduce emerging technologies to the aerospace sector. These include technologies such as: collaborative robotics, advanced human interface, and innovative telecommunication architecture. To successfully achieve our aim, we require the collaboration of researchers and industry specialists with strong and diverse subject matter expertise. The project will achieve the successful integration of diverse technologies that have not yet matured, or found practical application. We’re primarily seeking to develop practical application in various emergency situations, employing the aerospace medium.
 

More specifically, the aim of this project is to develop a novel information technology platform to improve the effectiveness of emergency response in disaster areas, ultimately saving lives. In case of any emergency response, the local communication infrastructure cannot be generally relied upon: therefore, we propose a distributed, self-organizing information system based on off-the-shelf mobile devices, supported by a self organizing self deploying UAVs. This platform is based on 4 research areas: autonomous networking, swarm robotics, Internet-of-Things, and data analytics.

The project is led by the team Humanitas Solutions (HS), a Montreal-based technological solution provider focusing on developing novel solutions to support emergency responders and lead them to improve their performance. The other industrial partners are Bell Helicopter (BH), Dassault Systems (DS), and Elisen & Associés (EA) who see great potential of the mission-critical-solution and its future application scenarios in other sectors.

A typical application scenario for the proposed platform can be the establishment of a temporary field hospital in a disaster area: tablets and smartphones of first responders collaborate to establish an ad-hoc network used to exchange messages, multimedia content, or run other collaborative user applications. Some UAVs place themselves in strategic points to increase the performance of the ad-hoc local network and to build long range communication channels with other distant areas. Other UAVs may be involved in other tasks such as search and rescue operations or patrolling. Finally, a secondary ad-hoc network may be established to connect multiple sensors, e.g., bracelets that monitor patient conditions, and to interact, when needed with the primary human-based network. The large amount of data collected by the whole infrastructure can be exploited to further improve the performance of the system, perform troubleshooting and make accurate predictions about future conditions. Both application and system data can be stored and synchronized with the cloud infrastructure, which can be also interrogated on-demand to perform advanced computing operations.

Being the project leader and main developer, HS will take in charge of the project coordination and the final outcome will be in its product range. BH will provide the expertise on helicopter dynamics and will benefit from the helicopter-based platform technology. DS will contribute to the development of a 3D-based human-computer-interface and will integrate its applications on the resulting network layer. EA will provide expertise on the certification of airborne systems, and will benefit by developing strategies for the certification Unmanned Aerial Systems (UASs).

All the industrial partners will be supported by three universities: Polytechnique Montreal, which will provide engineering research efforts for the project in all fields, Carleton University, which will develop the IoT secondary network, and HEC, which will provide analysis capability and research equipment for all the human factors involved in the project (e.g. human behavior analysis, UAV control interfaces). The expected outcome will be a converged self-organizing and self-healing IT platform able to cope in a seamless way with heterogeneous resources, mutable conditions and different quality of service requirements.

An Intelligent mixed-reality Simulation & training ecosystem for Extreme Environments

Theme: UAVs AND AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES

Acronym: AUT-1653_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project /Program: Maturing Technology

Everyday, thousands of human agents from a wide range of sectors are involved in complex and critical operations requiring strong coordination, interaction with multi-robot systems and other highly innovative technologies: a team of firefighters managing a large fire in hazardous environments, a ...

An Intelligent mixed-reality Simulation & training ecosystem for Extreme Environments

Theme: UAVs AND AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES

Acronym: AUT-1653_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project

Program: Maturing Technology

Everyday, thousands of human agents from a wide range of sectors are involved in complex and critical operations requiring strong coordination, interaction with multi-robot systems and other highly innovative technologies: a team of firefighters managing a large fire in hazardous environments, a search & rescue squad aided by rovers and drones looking for avalanche or other disaster survivors, humanitarian operators offering first aid in a post-tsunami scenario, first responders deployed after a terrorist attack.

The success of these critical operations may be seriously jeopardized by the uniqueness of each emergency response situation, the highly dynamic environment, the information overload together with the inexperience of human operators, that may be demanded to take crucial decisions and perform extremely complex processes without having had this unique field experience in real situations. Furthermore, innovative technologies like drones, smart devices or sensors, which may dramatically improve the efficiency of such multi-agent operations, cannot be practically deployed in the field because of both training and testing issues that prevent them from being totally reliable and widely accepted. In fact, state-of-the-art simulation solutions present substantial limitations and constraints, e.g., high deployment costs, unrealistic User Experience (UX), limited or inaccurate simulation libraries and limited scalability, that affect training efficiency, testing robustness and practical applicability.

To fill this gap in large-scale simulation solutions for multi-agent operations fueled by highly innovative technology, e.g., fleets of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), we aim to develop the Intelligent mixed-reality Simulation and training ecosystem for Extreme Environments (I.SEE).

I.SEE will be the next generation solution to (i) improve the training effectiveness for operators and decision makers involved in medium and large-scale multi-agent operations, (ii) evaluate and test new technologies and practices, (iii) analyze human behavior in specific conditions, (iv) reduce planning, deployment and operational costs and times, (v) innovate result analysis and benchmarking tools, (vi) predict in real-time the outcome of specific operation.

ICT for wireless and ad-hoc environments as well as UAVs will be the two main innovative technological ingredients at the basis of I.SEE. ICT developments will include (i) a mobile ad-hoc cloud infrastructure for both aerial (e.g., UAV on-board operations) and ground (e.g., simulated element elaboration) processing, (ii) an IoT infrastructure for heterogeneous systems, (iii) cybersecurity for ad-hoc wireless environments (iv) big-data and advanced analytics (powered by artificial intelligence) for improved situational awareness for simulator users. As for UAV-related innovation, I.SEE will contribute with (i) new simulation technologies for multi-UAV systems (both centralized and distributed) to evaluate the behavior of UAV systems, predict the outcome of UA-.based missions, streamline UAV development, and train operators involved in UAV-aided operations, (ii) multi-UAV 3D mapping and exploration technologies for live generation of real 3D simulation environments and live update of Common Database (CDB) entries, (iii) AI-powered (artificial intelligence) navigation technologies for reliable and autonomous UAV navigation. Finally, further research activities related to virtual/augmented reality (VR/AR) and its interaction with the other elements of I.SEE, will be crucial to adequately develop the mixed-reality paradigm, which is the key to immerse I.SEE’s users in a hyper realistic training/simulation experience.

The present project is led by the Humanitas Solutions (HS) team, a Montreal-based IT solution provider focusing on developing novel software to support first responders in operational performance improvement. Other industrial partners include CAE, Presagis, Synopsys, Elisen & Associés, and Thales, who see great potential for the missioncritical solution and its future application scenarios in their respective sectors. An application example for the proposed ecosystem could be a simulation of a crisis management scenario at first response personnel (e.g. UAV pilots, firefighters, paramedics, etc.). Once deployed, trainees will be equipped with VR visors through which they will receive instructions about the scenario and their roles, visualize the simulated elements, and interact with the environment, in real physical environment. Meantime, autonomous UAVs are sent in the air to scan the area and provide 3D models that are immediately elaborated to reproduce the surroundings in the simulation. Also, other sensors (e.g., wearable bracelets monitoring victim's status) are deployed in the field to Project CARIC AUT-1653 TRL4+ Project An Intelligent & Automated Mixed-Reality Training Ecosystem for Emergency sponse 5 provide additional relevant data, with UAVs acting as information gateways. The trainees’ actions will constantly be monitored and recorded throughout the simulation. A debriefing phase supported by innovative visualization functions will be organized at the end to evaluate individual performance and the other relevant metrics.

As the project leader and primary developer, Humanitas will take charge of the project coordination and the outcome will be in its product range. Presagis will contribute to the development of the simulation engine by providing core development solutions and will benefit from the new multi-UAV simulation engine and live CDB technologies. Synopsys will provide embedded computing systems to be installed on UAVs to run multi-robot-related computing vision algorithms. On the other hand, it will benefit from the first working prototype demonstrating the application of Synopsys technology for aerospace. Elisen & Associés will provide expertise on project management and avionics. The company will benefit by acquiring a deep know-how on UAV technologies that will allow to enlarge its customer base. Thales will provide its expertise in public security and crisis management solutions to boost the development of the human behavior framework, make the security mechanisms for the UAV, IoT, and mobile cloud layers more effective. The entire project will be supported by relevant research efforts from the following three universities: Polytechnique Montreal, which will contribute to UAV research, IoT and mobile cloud developments, human behavior analysis, and VR-based user interface; McGill, which will develop the AI layers for both autonomous UAV navigation and improved situational awareness; and HEC, which will provide analysis capability and research equipment for all the human factors involved in the project (e.g., human behavior analysis).

MOBILIZING PROJET : Medium-sized VTOL UAV

Theme: UAVs AND AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES

Acronym: AUT-703_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project /Program: Maturing Technology

The project CARIC AUT-703 involves four Canadian SMEs supported by two specialized Engineering universities, École Polytechnique de Montreal and the ÉTS, in order to develop several concepts and technologies in the field of UAVs. The quartet of companies will demonstra...

MOBILIZING PROJET : Medium-sized VTOL UAV

Theme: UAVs AND AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES

Acronym: AUT-703_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project

Program: Maturing Technology

The project CARIC AUT-703 involves four Canadian SMEs supported by two specialized Engineering universities, École Polytechnique de Montreal and the ÉTS, in order to develop several concepts and technologies in the field of UAVs. The quartet of companies will demonstrate an unmanned helicopter prototype intermediate category.

Located in Saint-Joseph-de-Coleraine in Quebec, the company LAFLAMME AERO demonstrate the expertise and technologies of the young aerospace company offering a revolutionary concept helicopter small size, performance and unmatched versatility.

The company N.G.C. AEROSPACE from Sherbrooke, specializing for his part in the design and deployment of intelligent software for space, aeronautical and land systems, will use its expertise and technologies in developing and integrating a system of navigation, guidance and control with avoidance obstacle to the drone.
For its part, ROY AIRCRAFT AVIONICS & SIMULATION is one of the few companies in the world with the expertise and products needed to develop and implement an integrated test unit for a complete aircraft. RAAS develop during this project extensible test environment and ground control station technologies.
SINTERS AMERICA, located in Boucherville, develops and manufactures automated and maintenance equipment for aerospace test systems. The company wants to develop an acquisition card dedicated to UAV for gauge sensors and also position themselves in the new market for drones.

These four SMEs wanting to use the "technology maturation" program offered by the CARIC to propel each company to greater heights. This project will diversify, develop and improve the expertise of partner companies. This project is also an opportunity to build a strong partnership between the four industrial partners and two universities in the aerospace sector, a first initiative that could lead to short and medium term to substantial business opportunities. Finally, the AUT-703 project will also enable the development and validation of high-tech products that can then be sold on the UAV market is growing rapidly. This project could be a lever that will result in the retention and creation of ten jobs in aerospace in small and medium-sized businesses in the high technology sector.

ACTIVE HAPTIC TRIM ACTUATORS FOR ROTORCRAFT APPLICATIONS

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: AVIO-1503_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project /Program: Maturing Technology

Active haptic pilot controls have the capability to generate tactile cueing signals to warn the pilot of approaching flight envelope limitations or hazards. This is particularly of interest for helicopters because they regularly operate near their maximum gross weights and power levels. Active hapti...

ACTIVE HAPTIC TRIM ACTUATORS FOR ROTORCRAFT APPLICATIONS

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: AVIO-1503_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project

Program: Maturing Technology

Active haptic pilot controls have the capability to generate tactile cueing signals to warn the pilot of approaching flight envelope limitations or hazards. This is particularly of interest for helicopters because they regularly operate near their maximum gross weights and power levels. Active haptic cueing alerts the pilot of an impending aircraft flight limit without requiring supplementary attention. This allows a more efficient usage of the aircraft capabilities while increasing safety by enhancing pilot’s situational awareness.
In order to generate adequate tactile cues, active controls require high‐bandwidth actuators, which typically come with added system complexity, cost and weight. For this reason, active control technology is not currently seen in lighter aircraft. However, the need for increased safety makes the advantages of active controls desirable for all aircraft types.
From 2013 to 2015, following the CRIAQ ENV‐404 project aiming at developing all‐electric actuation technologies for aircraft, Bell Helicopter and Exonetik developed an active haptic trim actuator using Magnetorheological Fluids (MRF) as a form and fit replacement to current passive trim actuators used in light helicopters. The developed MRF active haptic trim actuator can be used with both existing platforms having conventional controls and new fly‐by‐wire aircraft.
The objective of this CARIC project proposal is to design, build and test prototypes, on ground and subsequently in flight, of MRF trim actuators, in order to make the technology progress from TRL4 to TRL6.

Degraded Visual Environment Navigation Support (DVENS)

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: AVIO-1601_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project /Program: Maturing Technology

o A Degraded Visual Environment (DVE) exists when conditions of low visibility, including conditions caused by rotor downwash in sand/dust (“brown-out”), snow (“white-out”/snowball) or water, obscures both horizon and terrain features. A DVE may also occur when environmental ...

Degraded Visual Environment Navigation Support (DVENS)

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: AVIO-1601_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project

Program: Maturing Technology

o A Degraded Visual Environment (DVE) exists when conditions of low visibility, including conditions caused by rotor downwash in sand/dust (“brown-out”), snow (“white-out”/snowball) or water, obscures both horizon and terrain features. A DVE may also occur when environmental conditions such as fog, precipitation, snow, clouds or smoke adversely impact a rotorcraft operator's abilities to operate safely and effectively. DVE operations are mostly associated with helicopters that are in critical phases of flight (i.e. landing and take-off) however a DVE can occur in any flight profile. The broad range of operational conditions which may lead to a DVE presents hazard across a broad range of current and potential Canadian Forces and civilian operational environments. The impact of DVE conditions on operations can range from a nuisance to a serious hazard jeopardizing aircraft and lives. DVE conditions have resulted in numerous NATO aircraft helicopter crews and vehicles being lost in Afghanistan. Operations in cold climates also experience similar white-out conditions; as such DVE poses a significant risk factor for future Arctic rotary wing operations.

Cosmic radiation In-flight Measurement and real-time analysis for Electronic Systems and passenger protection (CIMES)

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: AVIO-1603_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project /Program: Maturing Technology

To answer customers concerns and to be compliant with FAA requests on the subject, aircraft and flight systems manufacturers must collect in-flight data for cosmic radiations and develop a global strategy for real-time processing of this data to provide pilots, crew and aircraft operations, appropri...

Cosmic radiation In-flight Measurement and real-time analysis for Electronic Systems and passenger protection (CIMES)

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: AVIO-1603_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project

Program: Maturing Technology

To answer customers concerns and to be compliant with FAA requests on the subject, aircraft and flight systems manufacturers must collect in-flight data for cosmic radiations and develop a global strategy for real-time processing of this data to provide pilots, crew and aircraft operations, appropriate information to help them make the right decisions in case of unusually high cosmic radiation exposure.Researches have started in order to better assess the effect of Cosmic radiation on health. And some data exists for the effect on systems in the literature as well as from previous project AVIO-403. AVIO-403 and its continuum (WP4 of Project EPICEA) are intended to better assess the risk and accordingly adapt electrical system design and integration to the new industry paradigm (lightweight, more electric, manufacturing cost efficiency …). In parallel, AVIO-1603 is intended to develop an in-flight response to the challenge of CR events.

Data Networks and Smart Sensors for Safety-Critical Avionics Applications

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: AVIO-402 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

This project aims at developing a new avionics communication network allowing a reduction of the complexity of cabling by adopting a smaller wire-count solution, using the state-of-the-art avionics data network technologies. Digital interfaces will be developed to connect the legacy position senso...

Data Networks and Smart Sensors for Safety-Critical Avionics Applications

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: AVIO-402 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

This project aims at developing a new avionics communication network allowing a reduction of the complexity of cabling by adopting a smaller wire-count solution, using the state-of-the-art avionics data network technologies.

Digital interfaces will be developed to connect the legacy position sensors and actuators to data buses. Emerging MEMS and photonic technologies will be employed to develop new lightweight, contactless, and highly reliable position sensors in order to provide an enhanced performance while reducing the cost of deployment and maintenance.

Issues related to frequency selection and electromagnetic compatibility and interference will also be addressed for forecasting the further development of wireless avionics communication systems.

See poster of the project (May 2013)

Development of next generation airplane AFDX communication network with enhanced security

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: AVIO-402_INTL /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

L'introduction de nouvelles architectures avioniques, telles que l'avionique modulaire intégrée (AMI), et l'augmentation du nombre et de la complexité des composantes embarquées dans les aéronefs impliquent un accroissement considérable de la quantité de données échangées. Pour répondre...

Development of next generation airplane AFDX communication network with enhanced security

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: AVIO-402_INTL /Status: Completed Project

International collaboration: China

Program: Exploring Technology /Sub-program: International

L'introduction de nouvelles architectures avioniques, telles que l'avionique modulaire intégrée (AMI), et l'augmentation du nombre et de la complexité des composantes embarquées dans les aéronefs impliquent un accroissement considérable de la quantité de données échangées.

Pour répondre à ce défit technologique, l'industrie aérospatiale a établi de nouvelles normes de réseaux de communication avioniques basées sur les technologies d'information et de communications modernes.

Le réseau AFDX (Avionics Full Duplex Switched Ethernet) est une des normes les plus connues dans ce contexte qui repose sur la technologie de l'Éthernet commuté.

See poster of the project (May 2013)

Cosmic Radiation & Effect on Aircraft Systems, Part I

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: AVIO-403_Plan C /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

This project aims to explore design and verification techniques for radiation tolerant electronic systems that ease test, diagnosis and fault emulation. Cosmic radiations have always been associated with space missions. Until recently, the space community was practically the only one preoccupied w...

Cosmic Radiation & Effect on Aircraft Systems, Part I

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: AVIO-403_Plan C /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

This project aims to explore design and verification techniques for radiation tolerant electronic systems that ease test, diagnosis and fault emulation.

Cosmic radiations have always been associated with space missions. Until recently, the space community was practically the only one preoccupied with cosmic radiations, mainly due to the natural protection provided by the atmosphere and the relative insensitivity of the electronic systems to the radiations.

However transistor scaling generally makes electronic devices more sensitive to radiations. Many people believe that many 'No Fault Found' (NFF) failures are caused by radiations. As a consequence, the avionic and even space electronic systems contain more and more rad-hard devices, which are limited in availability. This explains the growing interest toward design and verification techniques for such electronic systems.

Cosmic Radiation & Effect on Aircraft Systems

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: AVIO-403_INTL /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

L'objectif principal de ce projet est le développement et la validation de techniques de conception et de vérification facilitant le test, le diagnostic et l'émulation de pannes pour les systémes tolérants aux radiations, dans le but d'accélérer...

Cosmic Radiation & Effect on Aircraft Systems

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: AVIO-403_INTL /Status: Completed Project

International collaboration: France

Program: Exploring Technology /Sub-program: International

L'objectif principal de ce projet est le développement et la validation de techniques de conception et de vérification facilitant le test, le diagnostic et l'émulation de pannes pour les systémes tolérants aux radiations, dans le but d'accélérer la mise en uvre et la certification de tels systémes, ainsi que le diagnostic des dysfonctionnements liés aux radiations.

L'atteinte de cet objectif passe par l'exploration d'architectures facilitant l'atteinte de l'objectif principal.

Plan d'action: Analyse de systémes avioniques existants, commercialisés par nos partenaires industriels afin de mieux comprendre les contraintes et requis (notamment au niveau de la qualification), de faire l'inventaire des mécanismes de tolérance déjà présents, et d'identifier les modéles de simulation existants pouvant s'arrimer avec l'infrastructure logicielle envisagée.

See poster of the project (May 2013)

Wave Propagation, Antennas and Radio Systems for Future Energy Efficient Aircraft

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: AVIO-404 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

This project will develop new antennas that will be compatible with the electric properties of composite materials used in future fuselages. The effects of composite materials on wave propagation and the reduction of electromagnetic interference associated with radio equipment will be studied. ...

Wave Propagation, Antennas and Radio Systems for Future Energy Efficient Aircraft

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: AVIO-404 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

This project will develop new antennas that will be compatible with the electric properties of composite materials used in future fuselages. The effects of composite materials on wave propagation and the reduction of electromagnetic interference associated with radio equipment will be studied.

See poster of the project (May 2013)

Time-Triggered Architectures and Mixed Criticality Systems Integration

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: AVIO-503_Plan C /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

This project aims at applying Model Driven Architectures (MDA) and Development Environment (MDE) to build Time-Triggered Architectures (TTA), defining models and automatic techniques for developing and integrating TTA based mixed criticality avionic systems, and experimenting integrated modular avio...

Time-Triggered Architectures and Mixed Criticality Systems Integration

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: AVIO-503_Plan C /Status: Completed Project

International collaboration: Austria

Program: Exploring Technology /Sub-program: International

This project aims at applying Model Driven Architectures (MDA) and Development Environment (MDE) to build Time-Triggered Architectures (TTA), defining models and automatic techniques for developing and integrating TTA based mixed criticality avionic systems, and experimenting integrated modular avionics (IMA) systems using TTA based data communication networks.

Software radios for highly integrated system architecture

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: AVIO-505 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

Le projet consiste en la mise en place de méthodes et de systémes de traitement des informations pour des dispositifs de communication efficace et efficiente dans le domaine de l'aéronautique et de l'aérospatial. Ce projet vise l'intégration des multiples sys...

Software radios for highly integrated system architecture

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: AVIO-505 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

Le projet consiste en la mise en place de méthodes et de systémes de traitement des informations pour des dispositifs de communication efficace et efficiente dans le domaine de l'aéronautique et de l'aérospatial. Ce projet vise l'intégration des multiples systémes de communications afin de minimiser l'espace nécessaire à leurs utilisations, la réduction du nombre de piéces de rechange nécessaires liées aux équipements de télécommunication ainsi qu'une diminution du poids totales des appareils. Le tout dans un but de réduction des gaz à effets de serre et d'optimisation des performances des appareils de communication.

Dans la mesure où le futur avion typique est désormais constitué de matériaux composites, il devient nécessaire de minimiser l'utilisation de câbles coaxiaux. En effet, ces derniers sont soumis à des champs électromagnétiques qui influencent grandement le fonctionnement des appareils lorsqu'il n'y a pas de mise à la terre solide et commune aux différents systémes, et ceci sans négliger le poids de l'ensemble de ses câbles ainsi que des diverses radios existantes dans les systémes conventionnels.
Bombardier et MDA aimeraient définir une nouvelle approche en utilisant un systéme leur permettant de remplacer les multiples radios auparavant utilisées par un seul systéme générique. L'utilisation d'antennes multibande pour les différents types de communication sera aussi un élément de travail. La radio et l'antenne utilisée devront permettre une simultanéité de fonctionnement des différents types de communication sans fil. Il serait avantageux que la partie RF du systéme de communication soit le plus prés possible de l'antenne afin de minimiser le bruit induit et les pertes de puissance dans les câbles. L'idée étant de faire une conversion de RF à IF à l'antenne et de transmettre les signaux en bande de bases vers la radio générique pour la démodulation numérique et autre traitement sur les signaux.
Afin d'intégrer les différents systémes de communication sous une même plateforme, un dispositif de radio défini de maniére logicielle sera utilisé. Ce systéme nous permettrait l'utilisation dune carte analogique générique adaptée pour divers protocole de communication, le tout combiné à une partie numérique reconfigurable de maniére logicielle afin de répondre aux exigences dune multitude de protocoles de communication. ISR en tant que partenaire industriel du présent projet, propose l'utilisation de leur systéme de radio défini par logiciel afin de mettre en place un tel systéme novateur dans le domaine de l'aéronautique et de l'aérospatial.

ICD Management

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: AVIO-506 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

Modern systems interfaces definition, evolution and tracking are an ever increasing challenge. The growing functional density, distributed over multiple processing resources, cause the physical and function interfaces to be increasingly difficult to manage. This problem becomes more intense with th...

ICD Management

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: AVIO-506 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

Modern systems interfaces definition, evolution and tracking are an ever increasing challenge. The growing functional density, distributed over multiple processing resources, cause the physical and function interfaces to be increasingly difficult to manage.

This problem becomes more intense with the physical capacity provided by modern platforms, which are used by these systems to enrich user experience. This capacity requires massive data to be defined and exchanged over multiple communication channels, including complex protocols.

This project will consist of creating a capability to master this challenge using tools, standards, and algorithms. This capability will greatly increase the efficiency of systems integration and provide a strong discriminator in the system life-cycle cost management.

Diagnostics for Real Time Distributed Multicore Architectures

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: AVIO-508 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

On board avionics systems are rapidly increasing in complexity and are starting to use advanced technology such as real-time ethernet, multicore distributed systems and virtualization. The possibilities and expectations for detailed extremely realistic simulations have greatly increased the need for...

Diagnostics for Real Time Distributed Multicore Architectures

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: AVIO-508 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

On board avionics systems are rapidly increasing in complexity and are starting to use advanced technology such as real-time ethernet, multicore distributed systems and virtualization. The possibilities and expectations for detailed extremely realistic simulations have greatly increased the need for more computing resources, mandating the use of large distributed real-time multicore 64 bits systems.

Leveraging the processing power of multicore architectures is not an obvious task. The increased performance comes from the parallel computations and this involves deep changes in software architecture, design, implementation and debugging. Indeed, parallel processing brings a whole new class of problems both in terms of correctness (proper locking to synchronize concurrent accesses among multiple threads, avoid races, and insure consistency and isolation) and performance (load balancing, avoid cache bouncing, achieve good locality of reference at all levels in the memory hierarchy).

Parallel processing has been used for some time in High Performance Computing and they have developed over the years a number of communication frameworks and analysis tools adequate for their applications. These applications typically divide a huge problem in small chunks, distribute the chunks over a large cluster of perhaps 1024 computing nodes and communicate the results periodically. The underlying complexity in these applications is more manageable because all the computing nodes run the same program, these programs are CPU intensive, and structured frameworks like the Message Passing Interface (MPI) is used to manage and synchronize the data exchanges.

The situation is different for these new avionics and simulation applications. The distributed system is highly heterogeneous, each computing node runs a different software module, and operates in real-time. A new set of algorithms, techniques and tools is required to extract detailed execution traces from these real-time distributed multicore, multi-threaded, systems and to analyze these traces. The main challenges are that the tracing activity should minimally perturbate the system being monitored, both in terms of timing and throughput, that there is no common reference time since all the distributed computing nodes use independent clocks, and that sophisticated analysis tools are required to help the system engineers process the potentially huge amount of tracing data to rapidly identify the problems.

The outcome will be an increased understanding and control on these real-time distributed multi-core systems. This will result in more reliable systems and better resources utilization, thus either decreasing hardware costs or increasing the level of realism in the simulations.

Architecture Exploration for Highly-Integrated and Low-Cost Avionics (Part II of CRIAQ 5.6_plan C)

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: AVIO-509 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

This research project will address the IMA challenges, with an emphasis on two crucial aspects for our industrial partners: 1) the architectural impact of important components of the IMA platform including the system configuration, the operating system and the communication network and 2) the migr...

Architecture Exploration for Highly-Integrated and Low-Cost Avionics (Part II of CRIAQ 5.6_plan C)

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: AVIO-509 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

This research project will address the IMA challenges, with an emphasis on two crucial aspects for our industrial partners:
1) the architectural impact of important components of the IMA platform including the system configuration, the operating system and the communication network and
2) the migration of an Augmented Visionics System (AVS) application from a Windows prototype to an IMA platform.

Interference mitigation in satellite communications

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: AVIO-601 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

Technological developments will continue to lower the entry requirements for space, increasing the number of players in orbit. As a consequence, radio frequency interference in space will be growing. New technologies as well as existing technologies used in military applications or in extremely con...

Interference mitigation in satellite communications

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: AVIO-601 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

Technological developments will continue to lower the entry requirements for space, increasing the number of players in orbit. As a consequence, radio frequency interference in space will be growing.

New technologies as well as existing technologies used in military applications or in extremely congested wireless terrestrial communications could be adapted to resolve satellite link interference issues.

Objectives:

+ Characterise interference signals in satellite communications
+ Identify digital signal processing and antenna technology, communications systems and devices to mitigate the effects of interfering signals
+ Develop new techniques to sense and adapt to the congested Radio Frequency environment

Specification and Verification of Design Models for Certifiable Avionics Software

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: AVIO-604 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

(1) Procuce avionics software models, using enhanced design notations for understandability. (2) Model compiler producing certifiable code. Languages : UML, Simulink Objectives: + Create an enhanced UML profile inspired from RSML +Requirements State Machine Language + Create a methodology for Simuli...

Specification and Verification of Design Models for Certifiable Avionics Software

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: AVIO-604 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

(1) Procuce avionics software models, using enhanced design notations for understandability. (2) Model compiler producing certifiable code. Languages : UML, Simulink Objectives: + Create an enhanced UML profile inspired from RSML +Requirements State Machine Language + Create a methodology for Simulink inspired from RSML. + Enable design-by-contract and the use of C++as a target language in a context of Model-Driven Development. + Develop a model compiler ready for qualification at the highest design Assurance Level (DAL A).

Test Automation with TTCN-3

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: AVIO-605 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

System test methodology, based on the Test and Test Control Notation (TTCN-3) Objectives: + Gap analysis between TTCN and current test languages and environments. + Upgrade TTCN language and associated tools if necessary. + Large scale case study. Use of codecs in test environments and in target...

Test Automation with TTCN-3

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: AVIO-605 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

System test methodology, based on the Test and Test Control Notation (TTCN-3)

Objectives:

+ Gap analysis between TTCN and current test languages and environments.

+ Upgrade TTCN language and associated tools if necessary.

+ Large scale case study. Use of codecs in test environments and in target systems.

Ruggedized OLED Displays

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: AVIO-606_Plan C /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

The increasing demand of LCD displays in glass cockpits requires the need to introduce new display technologies at lower cost and higher performance. Objectives: + Caracterize the OLED display technology for avionic applications and identify ways to ruggedize it + Identify OLED type suitab...

Ruggedized OLED Displays

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: AVIO-606_Plan C /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

The increasing demand of LCD displays in glass cockpits requires the need to introduce new display technologies at lower cost and higher performance.

Objectives:

+ Caracterize the OLED display technology for avionic applications and identify ways to ruggedize it

+ Identify OLED type suitable for avionic applications and ruggedization solutions

Time-Triggered Architectures and Mixed Criticality Systems Integration

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: AVIO-613 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

This project aims at applying Model Driven Architectures (MDA) and Development Environment (MDE) to build Time-Triggered Architectures (TTA), defining models and automatic techniques for developing and integrating TTA based mixed criticality avionic systems, and experimenting integrated modular avio...

Time-Triggered Architectures and Mixed Criticality Systems Integration

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: AVIO-613 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

This project aims at applying Model Driven Architectures (MDA) and Development Environment (MDE) to build Time-Triggered Architectures (TTA), defining models and automatic techniques for developing and integrating TTA based mixed criticality avionic systems, and experimenting integrated modular avionics (IMA) systems using TTA based data communication networks. href="http://www.criaq.aero/media/articles/AVIO-613.jpg" target="_blank" title="Link to poster">See poster of the project (May 2013)

Technologies for Reconfigurable antennas used in Satellite and Terrestrial Links (TRUST)

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: AVIO-707 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

The general objective of the proposed research is to investigate the feasibility of implementing electronically reconfigurable antennas with the following desired characteristics: capability to operate under realistic transmit power conditions, flexibility for beam steering and shaping, capability o...

Technologies for Reconfigurable antennas used in Satellite and Terrestrial Links (TRUST)

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: AVIO-707 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

The general objective of the proposed research is to investigate the feasibility of implementing electronically reconfigurable antennas with the following desired characteristics: capability to operate under realistic transmit power conditions, flexibility for beam steering and shaping, capability of retuning the frequency of operation, capability to operate under varying temperature conditions and reconfiguration time in the order of microseconds. To accomplish this, we will investigate the characteristics of tunable components under severe conditions (high power and varying temperature) to determine their limitations. Approaches to mitigate the performance degradation will have to be developed and validated. Concurrently, reconfigurable antenna prototypes demonstrating the enhanced robustness of the design method will be designed and implemented. These prototypes will allow assessment of performance and limitations of the proposed concepts.

Active haptic sidestick for aircraft applications

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: AVIO-718_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project /Program: Maturing Technology

Since 2013, Design Exonetics (a spinoff from the CAMUS - Conception d’Actionneurs et de Moteurs de l’Université de Sherbrooke – laboratory) has been developing a novel actuation technology for the aerospace industry in collaboration with an aerospace OEM. The technology offe...

Active haptic sidestick for aircraft applications

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: AVIO-718_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project

Program: Maturing Technology

Since 2013, Design Exonetics (a spinoff from the CAMUS - Conception d’Actionneurs et de Moteurs de l’Université de Sherbrooke – laboratory) has been developing a novel actuation technology for the aerospace industry in collaboration with an aerospace OEM. The technology offers lighter and faster actuation than high-end electromagnetic motors or hydraulic systems, while matching the most stringent aerospace reliability and weight requirements, necessary for critical applications such as primary flight controls. Recently, Exonetics has been investigating new applications for the technology, one of the most promising being active haptic devices. The preliminary study has led to a commercial-product idea revolving around multi Degrees-Of-Freedom joystick actuated by cable mechanisms, which could find applications in a variety of aircrafts. The objective of the CARIC project proposal is thus to design, build, and test a prototype of a cable-mechanism for an active haptic joystick, in order to entice market interest and have the product evolve from TRL3 to TRL4. The main technical challenges of this project are: (1) the integration of electric/electronic and mechanical hardware in a commercially attractive product, (2) the development and implementation of optimal control strategy for cable-driven haptic devices and, (3) the production of the parts with state of the art aeronautical processes. These challenges need to address by partners in each specific field.

Manufacturing of an Aerospace Primary Composite Structure Prototype with Thermoplastic Materials

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-BAVARIA-1_INTL /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

The objective of the project is to manufacture an aerospace fibre composite prototype with thermoplastic matrix materials in order to compare with aluminium and standard thermoset materials in term of weight, performance, manufacturability and cost. ...

Manufacturing of an Aerospace Primary Composite Structure Prototype with Thermoplastic Materials

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-BAVARIA-1_INTL /Status: Completed Project

International collaboration: Bavaria

Program: Exploring Technology /Sub-program: International

The objective of the project is to manufacture an aerospace fibre composite prototype with thermoplastic matrix materials in order to compare with aluminium and standard thermoset materials in term of weight, performance, manufacturability and cost.

See poster of the project (May 2013)

Out of Autoclave Composite Aerospace Structures Manufacturing

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-1 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

The main objective of this project is to investigate the relationship between the performance (mechanical, quality) and the production costs (tooling, cure cycle) associated with the manufacturing of a composite airframe structure using out-of-autoclave technologies. Suitable materials must be id...

Out of Autoclave Composite Aerospace Structures Manufacturing

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-1 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

The main objective of this project is to investigate the relationship between the performance (mechanical, quality) and the production costs (tooling, cure cycle) associated with the manufacturing of a composite airframe structure using out-of-autoclave technologies.

Suitable materials must be identified and characterized to establish a database of properties that can be compared to autoclave processed composites. Optimum processing conditions and cure cycles must be determined for both the OOA prepregs and VARTM cured in an oven. A suitable representative sub component will be identified and tested in order to assess the production costs using OOA technology.

The production costs will include tooling, processing, cycle time and floor space required for OOA composite structure production.

See poster of the project (May 2013)

Complex composite structure multifunction for aerospace

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-1601_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project /Program: Maturing Technology

The new generation of complex composites structures that will be developed by Hutchinson and its partners will integrate several functions, including mechanical and robustness contribution brought by the integrated structure, esthetic contribution and more. These new technologies will allow to reduc...

Complex composite structure multifunction for aerospace

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-1601_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project

Program: Maturing Technology

The new generation of complex composites structures that will be developed by Hutchinson and its partners will integrate several functions, including mechanical and robustness contribution brought by the integrated structure, esthetic contribution and more. These new technologies will allow to reduce the amount of parts and the amount of operations required to build an assembly with a one-shot process, generating an energy saving in the global process. The self-stiffened part that will be developed will also allow to replace traditional metal components by composite materials. Combined with design optimization, a weight reduction will be achieved, generating a reduction of aircraft’s fuel consumption. These innovative technologies can be possible by combining a multiple expertise, and by developing specific know-how.

Natural Laminar Flow Nacelle Lip in Composite

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-1602_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project /Program: Maturing Technology

The aviation industry is constantly progressing towards its goal of minimum impact on the environment, with the aim to reduce in half its carbon emission by 2050 (IATA). To reduce the carbon emissions of an aircraft, with the same flying time, the aircraft manufacturer strives to reduce its weight a...

Natural Laminar Flow Nacelle Lip in Composite

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-1602_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project

Program: Maturing Technology

The aviation industry is constantly progressing towards its goal of minimum impact on the environment, with the aim to reduce in half its carbon emission by 2050 (IATA). To reduce the carbon emissions of an aircraft, with the same flying time, the aircraft manufacturer strives to reduce its weight and drag. This project addresses these two levers by creating a Natural Laminar Flow Nacelle Lip (low drag) that is made of Composite materials (low weight). To reduce the engine fuel consumption, the trend with the turbofan engine manufacturers has been to increase the bypass ratios for greater propulsion efficiency. To push this efficiency higher implies larger fans and therefore larger exposed nacelle surfaces, and thereby increased drag. Reducing the friction drag on such surfaces would therefore have a noticeable impact on the overall aircraft drag. In this scenario, research on composite materials and technologies are ongoing to avoid autoclave curing in order to achieve required mechanical performance and geometric complexity, avoiding a high energy and time consumption. As composite parts grow in size and number, the need for faster and more cost-effective manufacturing comes into conflict with the limitations of traditional processing methods. Given the predicted market growth for composites and the economic and time limitations of autoclave processing, out-of-autoclave manufacturing techniques with special regards to thermoplastic composite are becoming very interesting. In this project a Nacelle Composite Lip will be realized after a down selection between Thermoforming and Automated Fiber Placement manufacturing processes with the aim to obtain good surface quality, concerning laminar requirements, generated by these out-of-autoclave technologies: particular attention has to be spent to obtain a good surface waviness and roughness through Consolidation-in-Situ (CiS) due to difficulties to control the crystallization.

Flame retardant FRP systems for aircraft interior applications

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-1633_INTL /Status: Completed Project /Program: Maturing Technology

Due to aircraft manufacture volume increase there is a dramatic need for economic fibre -reinforced composite materials and processing technologies that fulfil - besides high mechanical properties and reliability - also specific fire, smoke and toxcity characteristics (FST). As inherent flame retard...

Flame retardant FRP systems for aircraft interior applications

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-1633_INTL /Status: Completed Project

International collaboration: Germany

Program: Maturing Technology /Sub-program: International

Due to aircraft manufacture volume increase there is a dramatic need for economic fibre -reinforced composite materials and processing technologies that fulfil - besides high mechanical properties and reliability - also specific fire, smoke and toxcity characteristics (FST). As inherent flame retardant composite resins are very expensive this projects will optimise the FST characteristics of existing resin types like epoxy and vinylester by flame retardant fillers. Consequently the processing technologies have to be adapted not to wash out the solid fillers by impregnation processes. To compensate the increase of density due to the high filler content, the reinforcing fibre amounts will be partly substituted by light nanocellulose fibres. The developed materials and processes will lead to the manufacture of three different demonstrator parts. All materials and processes show a high potential for immense cost cutting. The materials and processes will be evaluated mechanically by the universities first as coupon and later as demonstrator part. In addition Comprisetec and the HSU will evaluate the cost benefit by process cost analyses and the ecological impact by a life cycle assessment.

Static, Fatigue and Ageing Behaviour of Composites Used at High Temperature

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-3 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

Polymer matrix composites are increasingly used in the aeronautics industry. Some of these materials can withstand temperatures up to 550F in service over long periods of time. Exposition to elevated temperature leads to a viscoelastic behaviour for the matrix, which can have significant influence o...

Static, Fatigue and Ageing Behaviour of Composites Used at High Temperature

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-3 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

Polymer matrix composites are increasingly used in the aeronautics industry. Some of these materials can withstand temperatures up to 550F in service over long periods of time. Exposition to elevated temperature leads to a viscoelastic behaviour for the matrix, which can have significant influence on the material's in-service behaviour. In addition, exposure to high temperature accelerates the material ageing.

Finally, engine components made of such materials are subjected to both thermal and mechanical fatigue loadings. Fatigue is therefore an aspect that mus be considered when dealing with such materials.

The objective of this collaborative research work is to develop new methodologies for predicting the static as well as the fatigue behaviour of polyimide braided carbon reinforced composite taking into account temperature and ageing effects. The project will be carried out by 3 Ph.D. students and 3 M.Sc. Students., spread over École Polytechnique de Montréal, Concordia University and Ryerson University. NRC is also a partner in this project. The industrial partners are Pratt and Whitney Canada and Rolls Royce Canada.

Flaw Growth Thresholds in Composites

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-407 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

The objective of this research program is to propose experimental and modeling methodologies to determine endurance limit for damage onset in composite based on fracture mechanics and fatigue crack initiation monitoring using wave mode propagation based on Modal Acoustic Emission new approaches (MAE...

Flaw Growth Thresholds in Composites

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-407 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

The objective of this research program is to propose experimental and modeling methodologies to determine endurance limit for damage onset in composite based on fracture mechanics and fatigue crack initiation monitoring using wave mode propagation based on Modal Acoustic Emission new approaches (MAE) [3-8]. Through an analysis of the guided wave mode propagation and signal contents, the approach will be developed to determine the endurance limit related to the onset of delamination and cracks initiation in composite materials, as function of cyclic loading and environmental conditions related to temperature and humidity.

Analytical and numerical modeling tools will be performed to predict delamination onset and growth. Crack propagation of the starting delamination will be modeled by the Virtual Crack Closure Technique and Cohesive Zone method. Experimental procedures and analytical model will be proposed to determine composite stiffness loss induced by delamination initiation and propagation, and to measure delamination toughness over a wide range of mode I / mode II ratios as well as for pure mode I and mode II loadings. The total strain energy release rate G and its mode I (GI) and mode II (GII) components will be evaluated for the mixed-mode bending (MMB) test configuration using a fracture mechanics approach. Toughness test results and modal acoustic emission data related to crack initiation will be used to define the delamination initiation criteria envelope for the composite. These failure envelopes will enable predictions of delamination onset in composite materials.

Impact Modeling of Composite Aircraft Structures

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-410 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

Developments of design methodologies based on predictive numerical simulation methods for soft and hard body impact that would enhance our capability in predicting multi mode failure mechanisms and optimize structural design. ...

Impact Modeling of Composite Aircraft Structures

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-410 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

Developments of design methodologies based on predictive numerical simulation methods for soft and hard body impact that would enhance our capability in predicting multi mode failure mechanisms and optimize structural design.
See poster of the project (May 2013)

Thermoplastic Composites Forming Technology for Complex and Integrated Aerospace Components

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-412 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

This project involves the development of analytical modelling and simulation tools, combined with novel, optimized tooling and manufacturing techniques for the cost-effective use of compression molding in the design and manufacture of aerospace structures. ...

Thermoplastic Composites Forming Technology for Complex and Integrated Aerospace Components

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-412 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

This project involves the development of analytical modelling and simulation tools, combined with novel, optimized tooling and manufacturing techniques for the cost-effective use of compression molding in the design and manufacture of aerospace structures.

See poster of the project (May 2013)

Optimum design of steered-tow composite structures via characterization of Automated Fibre Placement induced defects

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-413 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

This project investigates the defect formation emerging during the AFP manufacturing of curvilinear shaped composite structures. An integrated optimization module will be developed to manufacture optimized composite parts free of detrimental defects. ...

Optimum design of steered-tow composite structures via characterization of Automated Fibre Placement induced defects

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-413 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

This project investigates the defect formation emerging during the AFP manufacturing of curvilinear shaped composite structures. An integrated optimization module will be developed to manufacture optimized composite parts free of detrimental defects.

See poster of the project (May 2013)

Mechanical behavior of composite laminates after being subjected to extreme space environments

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-415 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

Composite materials used to make space structures are subjected to space environments where the temperature can fluctuate between -170 oC to + 150 oC, where different types of failure may occur. The project studies this problem.

Mechanical behavior of composite laminates after being subjected to extreme space environments

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-415 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

Composite materials used to make space structures are subjected to space environments where the temperature can fluctuate between -170 oC to + 150 oC, where different types of failure may occur. The project studies this problem.

Thermoplastic composite tail-boom concept demonstrator

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-5 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

This project aims at the development of tapered thermoplatic composite tail booms for helicopters which has the configuration of a tapered cylinder. It connects the cabin of the helicopter to the tail rotor, whose function is to control the direction and stability of the aircraft. The tail boom is s...

Thermoplastic composite tail-boom concept demonstrator

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-5 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

This project aims at the development of tapered thermoplatic composite tail booms for helicopters which has the configuration of a tapered cylinder. It connects the cabin of the helicopter to the tail rotor, whose function is to control the direction and stability of the aircraft. The tail boom is subjected to a large amount of bending moments and stresses.

For weight saving purposes, the tail boom is usually a thin walled tube. It is located in the wake of the exhaust gas coming from the engine. As such, it needs to be made of a material with sufficient high temperature performance. The tail boom has been made using aluninum which possesses the characteristics of light weight, sufficiently good strength, stiffness and temperature performance.

This project will address the stress analysis for design of the tail boom using thermoplastic composites, and issues related to the manufacturing of the tail boom using fiber placement technique. Properties of laminates containing laps and gaps (or curved fiber paths) will be studied and used for the development of the composite tail boom. Manufacturing, analysis and design techniques will be developed.

3D Textile Carbon Fibre Preforms

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-501 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

Infusion processes offer great potential for accelerating the production of aerospace polymer composite parts and reducing unit costs when compared with traditional prepreg-based techniques. However, producing carbon fibre preforms to the complex shapes of 3D composite parts by assembling multiple l...

3D Textile Carbon Fibre Preforms

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-501 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

Infusion processes offer great potential for accelerating the production of aerospace polymer composite parts and reducing unit costs when compared with traditional prepreg-based techniques. However, producing carbon fibre preforms to the complex shapes of 3D composite parts by assembling multiple layers of the thin reinforcements is slow and labour-intensive. Furthermore, preforming from thin reinforcements leads to high variability in production and final performance. In industrial practice the slow pace, cost and variability associated with preforming from thin 2D reinforcements negate the potential advantages of infusion-based composite manufacturing processes. A limited group of innovative fabric manufacturers have recently started offering different types of 3D reinforcements. They are available at fibre volume fractions similar to those of the composite parts. Hence de-bulking during manufacture is no longer necessary.

The "3D Textile Carbon Fibre Preforms" project aims at producing near net shape 3D textile preforms for fast manufacture by infusion of complex shape composite parts. Commercially available 3D reinforcements will be tested as well as some produced by new technologies developed in parallel by project partners. Several assembly techniques for 3D textiles will be evaluated for their performance and speed. A characterization of the reinforcement formability as well as the mechanical performance of corresponding composite samples will be performed at all stages of the project in order to select the best 3D textiles and assembly techniques. These will be used to produce several demonstrator parts corresponding to scalable complex 3D geometries.
This technology seeks to simplify and improve the reproducibility of preforms and composite parts manufacture. The research team includes experts in 3D leaving, resin infusion, textile reinforcement structures, preforming, fabric shaping, part design, as well as textile and composite mechanics and evaluation. The project is also based on a strong partnership with industrial leaders in textiles, composites and in the aerospace industry. Such partnership will benefit the introduction of this technology in the Canadian ind

href="http://www.criaq.aero/media/articles/COMP-501.jpg" target="_blank" title="Link to poster">See poster of the project (May 2013)

Conductive surface films or coatings for composite structures

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-502 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

href="http://www.criaq.aero/media/articles/COMP-502.jpg" target="_blank" title="Link to poster">See poster of the project (May 2013)

Conductive surface films or coatings for composite structures

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-502 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

href="http://www.criaq.aero/media/articles/COMP-502.jpg" target="_blank" title="Link to poster">See poster of the project (May 2013)

Design and Analysis of Hybrid (Bonded and Bolted) Joints for Aerospace Structures

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-506 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

The goal is to develop an optimized design methodology for bolted/bonded joints for composite materials. When anaylzed independently, there are existing methodologies for both bonded and bolted joints. Combined together as a bolted/bonded joint, the problem becomes more complex. The interactions and...

Design and Analysis of Hybrid (Bonded and Bolted) Joints for Aerospace Structures

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-506 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

The goal is to develop an optimized design methodology for bolted/bonded joints for composite materials. When anaylzed independently, there are existing methodologies for both bonded and bolted joints. Combined together as a bolted/bonded joint, the problem becomes more complex. The interactions and failure modes must be understood in order to avoid overdesign and weight penalty in aerospace structures.
See poster of the project (May 2013)

Development of New Repair Technologies for Out-of-Autoclave Aircraft Composite Components

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-507 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

Composite materials are increasingly being used for primary aircraft components because of their superior performance such as high strength and stiffness, long fatigue life and light weight. These components will eventually develop damage in service and will have to be repaired. Some repair methodo...

Development of New Repair Technologies for Out-of-Autoclave Aircraft Composite Components

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-507 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

Composite materials are increasingly being used for primary aircraft components because of their superior performance such as high strength and stiffness, long fatigue life and light weight. These components will eventually develop damage in service and will have to be repaired.

Some repair methodologies have been developed for secondary structures but these technologies will be very difficult to adapt for primary structures. Primary structures are often quite thick to carry structural loads and have to meet high damage tolerance requirement. For such structures, it is crucial to design repairs that provide a significant level of recovery of residual strength. However, engineers responsible for damage assessment and repair designs currently do not have sufficient reliable analysis methodology to design high confidence repairs. In order to design reliable repairs, it is essential to develop a robust analytical tool to allow engineers to analyze and predict the behavior of the repaired component.

The developed analysis methodology should integrate modern CAE software and customized database system and be capable of assisting both engineers and technicians in determining reliable structural repairs for advanced composite aircraft structures. The primary goals of this tools future are thus (i) to provide reliable tools for aerospace structural engineers to design and analyze repairs and to improve the maintainability and structural integrity of those repairs (improved reliability of aircraft composite structural repairs);(ii) to provide a virtual environment to train aircraft maintenance and structural engineers in designing valid repairs and field technicians in performing these repairs, and (iii) finally to allow a widespread insertion of this repair technology throughout the fight transportation companies resulting in increased maintainability of composite aircraft structures.

This tool will be used to study the effects of various parameters (geometry, choice of materials and lay-up, thickness, etc.) on the repair strength. Various types of repair (scarf, patch, bonded and bolted) on monolithic stiffened panel as well as sandwich construction will be evaluated. The effects of processing parameters and abnormalities (surface preparation, contamination during repair) on the final strength will be studied. However a reliable analysis response depend on the reliability of the implemented material damage and fatigue models, if the composite materials used are not standard, their material models and parameters are unknown and should be first established through a material characterization process under both static and dynamic loadings.

The developed material models should be implemented in existing commercial codes used to assess their damage tolerance characteristics. One of the aims of the project is thus the development of an enhanced model to predict fatigue damage progression in primary aircraft composite structure and repaired primary composite structures and its validation based on experimental testing. The ability to predict the rate of fatigue damage is critical to damage tolerance analysis of a repair. And damage tolerance analysis allow the designer to assess the design life, assign inspection intervals, determine the likely failure mode of a repair and it is required for airworthiness certification for operating conditions.

See poster of the project (May 2013)

Composite Rotor Flex Beam Flapping Optimization

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-509_INTL /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

L'objectif du projet de recherche envisagé consiste à mettre au point de nouveaux centres de têtes rotor en matériaux composites ayant une capacité de battement de 7 degrés tout en ayant une durée de vie en fatigue similaire à celle des cent...

Composite Rotor Flex Beam Flapping Optimization

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-509_INTL /Status: Completed Project

International collaboration: India

Program: Exploring Technology /Sub-program: International

L'objectif du projet de recherche envisagé consiste à mettre au point de nouveaux centres de têtes rotor en matériaux composites ayant une capacité de battement de 7 degrés tout en ayant une durée de vie en fatigue similaire à celle des centres actuels dont la capacité est de 4 degrés. Il est possible d'y parvenir en modifiant le profil d'amincissement de la fibre pour effilement, en ajoutant un renforcement suivant l'épaisseur de la poutre ou en modifiant le matériau de la matrice du composite. Le nouveau matériau de la matrice peut être un thermoplastique ou il est possible de le renforcer à l'aide de nanoparticules comme les nano-argiles. Ce projet vise à étudier ces possibilités et leur influence sur la performance des centres de têtes rotor. Il permettra d'étudier la résistance au cisaillement inter-laminaire des poutres en matériaux composites soumises à des tensions élevées, que l'on retrouve couramment dans les structures des centres de têtes rotor des hélicoptéres. Une analyse paramétrique sera effectuée pour connaître l'influence des critéres de conception comme la rigidité de la fibre de verre et de la résine, les discontinuités au niveau de l'amincissement des couches, les charges de traction/flexion, les caractéristiques de résistance au cisaillement de la résine, les propriétés de l'épaisseur, etc. L'analyse servira à optimiser la conception des structures des poutres en flexion fabriquées en matériaux composites, en ce qui a trait à la résistance et à la durabilité dans l'espace de conception paramétrique. Les résultats de l'optimisation permettront de suggérer des modifications structurales. Ces modifications porteront sur de nouvelles caractéristiques de conception et de sélection de matériaux appropriés, portant aussi bien sur les fibres que la résine. Parmi les études figureront les systémes de résines à déformation élevée à la rupture, comme les thermoplastiques, ainsi que les résines à haute résistance au cisaillement associée à un renforcement tridimensionnel et/ou une modification de résine à l'échelle nanométrique. Parmi les activités du projet figureront les développements technologiques nécessaires à la fabrication et aux essais de la configuration améliorée en vue de démontrer que ses performances sont supérieures à celles des conceptions de référence.

Development of Nanochemicals Filled Epoxy Systems for Aerospace Applications

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-510 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

This project will develop a complete industrial solution based on nanochemicals for the manufacture of structural parts and tooling using resin film infusion, with a focus on the effect of a nanochemicals modified resin on the processing and performance of fibre reinforced composites. A lot...

Development of Nanochemicals Filled Epoxy Systems for Aerospace Applications

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-510 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

This project will develop a complete industrial solution based on nanochemicals for the manufacture of structural parts and tooling using resin film infusion, with a focus on the effect of a nanochemicals modified resin on the processing and performance of fibre reinforced composites.
A lot of work has been done in the field of nanochemicals to manufacture nanocomposites with improved mechanical properties in comparison with their unfilled counterparts. Nevertheless, much of these fundamental academic studies do not consider the overall aspect of an industrial product developement. In the field of thermosetting resins, the integration of nanochemicals has a huge impact on the physico-chemical properties such as viscosity and curing behaviour of the resin. This often results in poor processability and prevents from using these products at the industrial scale. The project involves the collaboration between an OEM (Bombardier Aerospace), a material supplier (Nanoledge) and two universities (McGill and University of Ottawa). Bombardier will define the application of the composite materials developed in the project. Nanoledge is a world leader in the formulation of nanochemicals modified resins at the industrial case. The Structures and Composite Materials Laboratory at McGill is actively conducting research on the application of nanocomposites and has extensive knowledge of the processing of composite materials. University of Ottawa is conducting research on the processing, micromechanics, thermal behaviour and durability of composites.

See poster of the project (May 2013)

Prediction of composite structure impact damage (PRESID)

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-511_INTL /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

Développement d'outils de calcul associés à des méthodes de validation pour réduire les coûts liés à l'approche expérimentale et de méthodes d'essais pouvant conduire à l'établissement de normes dans l...

Prediction of composite structure impact damage (PRESID)

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-511_INTL /Status: Completed Project

International collaboration: France

Program: Exploring Technology /Sub-program: International

Développement d'outils de calcul associés à des méthodes de validation pour réduire les coûts liés à l'approche expérimentale et de méthodes d'essais pouvant conduire à l'établissement de normes dans le but de permettre une conception plus efficace des structures en matériaux composites offrant une meilleure résistance aux chocs.

See poster of the project (May 2013)

Efficient Manufacturing of Aerospace Thermoplastic Composite Components

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-512 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

The aerospace industry has always looked for lighter designs to increase performance and reduce fuel consumption. Moreover, the industry is now committed to reduce the environmental footprint of aircraft manufacturing as well as the decommissioning of old aircraft. Thermoplastic matrix composite (T...

Efficient Manufacturing of Aerospace Thermoplastic Composite Components

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-512 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

The aerospace industry has always looked for lighter designs to increase performance and reduce fuel consumption. Moreover, the industry is now committed to reduce the environmental footprint of aircraft manufacturing as well as the decommissioning of old aircraft.

Thermoplastic matrix composite (TPC) materials are widely used in several industry sectors and have demonstrated real benefits for environmental aspects. These materials are expected to achieve energy savings for the whole life cycle of the products developed. Using innovative out-of-autoclave manufacturing processes such as stamp forming, the processing time could be potentially reduced by 50 to 75% compared to the traditional autoclave curing of thermoset matrix composites (TSC). This economy will reduce the Greenhouse Gas emissions. Moreover, no Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are emitted during manufacturing. At the other end of the product life cycle, recyclability of TPC provides another environmental gain.

In addition to decreased processing time and recyclability, the advantages of TPC over TSC include toughness and damage tolerance, post forming and repair capability, solvent resistance, low moisture absorption, no shelf life, etc. However, the main challenges are the difficult processability of TPCs due to their high melt viscosities, the definition of design allowables and the cost associated with the undeveloped supply chain. From a business side, Bombardier Aerospace has both weight and cost saving targets while still maintaining performance.

This project proposal will be defined in two major stages:

+ The first stage will be used to characterize process capability and understand the benefits of stamp forming. In this step, predictive models for long term material performance and coupon testing will be done to validate allowables and manufacturing quality issues (defects in part radii, minimum slope to be able to stamp a part, etc). This data will be used to build up the business case, evaluate material efficiency, potential weight savings and greenhouse gas emissions reduction.

+ Stage two will be the industrial application which will be defined later and is dependent on the outcome of this project.

New composites material for space applications

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-601 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

In the recent years, advancements have been made in composites materials including toughened resin, high modulus fibers and the use of nano-particles. The North American space industry has been focusing on Cyanate ester resin for many years while others more performing systems are being developed. T...

New composites material for space applications

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-601 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

In the recent years, advancements have been made in composites materials including toughened resin, high modulus fibers and the use of nano-particles. The North American space industry has been focusing on Cyanate ester resin for many years while others more performing systems are being developed. The new systems can be combined to alternative processing methods such as compression moulding to provide new design and assembly opportunities the objective of this project is to investigate these new resin systems and assess their suitability for the manufacturing of fibre reinforced composite structures for space applications. The project will involve a thorough review the appropriate new fibres and resin systems for space applications. A review of the possible core materials will also be carried out to improve sandwich panel performance. .

CCM10: Design and Technology Development of Optimized Composite Aircraft Structures Using Knowledge Based Iterations

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-709_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project /Program: Maturing Technology

The Canadian Composite Manufacturing R&D Consortium project, “Design and Technology Development of Optimized Composite Aircraft Structures Using Knowledge Based Iterations” will further the knowledge, experience and capability of advanced composite design, development, simulation and...

CCM10: Design and Technology Development of Optimized Composite Aircraft Structures Using Knowledge Based Iterations

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: COMP-709_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project

Program: Maturing Technology

The Canadian Composite Manufacturing R&D Consortium project, “Design and Technology Development of Optimized Composite Aircraft Structures Using Knowledge Based Iterations” will further the knowledge, experience and capability of advanced composite design, development, simulation and manufacturing in Canadian industry. Outcomes will be industrial competitive advantages, best practices documents and Highly Qualified Personnel (HQP). This project will focus on the design, development and manufacture of a challenging aircraft geometry, the knife edged 3D closeout structure. This geometry has difficult to fabricate key features with technology gaps, and has high potential for technical and economic benefits. Six industrial partners, two research organizations and two academic partners, coordinated through CCMRD, will collaborate to resolve its key technology gaps, generate knowledge and create innovative solutions. The project will define baseline metrics using ‘similar to’ commercial airplane products and will focus on improvements to cost, weight and manufacturing cycle time. An aggregate improvement of 25-50% is targeted. The knowledge generated, and experience gained during the design, tooling and manufacturing optimization processes will provide for competitive advantages. These advantages will manifest themselves as cost reductions, quality improvements and enable fabrication cycle time reductions though application of lean design and lean manufacturing.

Aérospatiale numérique

Theme: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE & DATA VALORIZATION

Acronym: CRIAQ-1645 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

The Digital Aerospace project, funded by CRIAQ, will fuel future discussion on the convergence of aerospace and digital technology to identify major development areas conducive to Quebec’s aerospace industry. Objectives: •to explore and identify the opportunities repre...

Aérospatiale numérique

Theme: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE & DATA VALORIZATION

Acronym: CRIAQ-1645 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

The Digital Aerospace project, funded by CRIAQ, will fuel future discussion on the convergence of aerospace and digital technology to identify major development areas conducive to Quebec’s aerospace industry.

Objectives:

•to explore and identify the opportunities represented by advances in the field of ICT for the aerospace sector

•to determine R&D needs and translate them into development priorities in a short-, medium- and long-term « program » orientation.

Decision Support System for Fleet Health Monitoring and Prognosis

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: DPHM-4 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

Although various disciplines have been involved in the development of fault diagnosis, prognosis, and health management (DPHM) algorithms, we notice a lack of hybrid, intelligent, and well integrated approaches in the literature. The overall objective of this project is to develop and implement a ne...

Decision Support System for Fleet Health Monitoring and Prognosis

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: DPHM-4 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

Although various disciplines have been involved in the development of fault diagnosis, prognosis, and health management (DPHM) algorithms, we notice a lack of hybrid, intelligent, and well integrated approaches in the literature. The overall objective of this project is to develop and implement a new integrated approach for DPHM of small aircraft gas turbine engines and associated accessories. The envisaged hybrid methodology is based on an “optimal” integration of model-based and computational intelligence-based techniques to monitor, diagnose, predict failures and estimate remaining useful life to maximize aircraft availability and minimize the overall life cycle cost. In particular, we will study hybrid fault diagnosis, hybrid prognosis, case-based reasoning for health monitoring, and the development of DPHM architectures and algorithms to adequately integrate the various functionalities. From the industrial partners perspective, the developed technologies will be integrated into a prototype that leverages existing engine data and processes to answer the following needs:

1. Detection of significant events with new products: An efficient and adaptable method to investigate events during fleet operations will be developed. This method will identify the combination or sequence of anomalies and symptoms, and provide a realistic measurement of the confidence of the detection strategy,

2. Decision support for design and operation: The methods developed will help enhance the speed and quality of engine health monitoring, predict emerging fleet issues, and improve product improvement decisions made by the service engineers particularly for engines with little service experience,

3. Formally characterize and develop global fault detection, health monitoring and prognostic strategies for an engine to conduct routine assessment of the detectability of various in-service difficulties,

4. Develop a reliable method for measuring the degree of efficacy of the proposed technologies (i.e. in terms of ability for detection or prediction) and grade the various elements of the fault detection chain against known difficulties, and

5. Optimally integrate the fault detection and monitoring algorithms to fuse and combine raw fleet usage and in-service difficulties data collected during troubleshooting sessions into “Decision Panels” that can direct attention of service engineers on emerging fleet/product issues.

Surface Mounted Transducers for Structural Health Monitoring of Bonded Structure Joints

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: DPHM-410_Plan C /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

Prior to the 3-year project, the team will conduct a go/no-go project of one year. This Plan C Project will validate original methods and devices, developed at UdeS and NRC, to detect disbond in composite structures via PZT-generated Lamb waves. It will define and detail the need for a subsequent 3 ...

Surface Mounted Transducers for Structural Health Monitoring of Bonded Structure Joints

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: DPHM-410_Plan C /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

Prior to the 3-year project, the team will conduct a go/no-go project of one year. This Plan C Project will validate original methods and devices, developed at UdeS and NRC, to detect disbond in composite structures via PZT-generated Lamb waves. It will define and detail the need for a subsequent 3 years collaborative research and development project.

The main objective is to demonstrate that transducers developed at UdeS and NRC are relevant technologies for disbond detection by PZT-generated Lamb waves.

The second objective is to obtain preliminary experimental results in order to focus the 3 year project definition.

Characterization of guided waves propagation in aircraft structures

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: DPHM-501 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

The proposed project is knowledge-gap oriented and thus aims at providing the industry with a database of cases for plate guided wave propagation and interaction with defects in aerospace structures. The scope of the project fits between the generation of a guided wave in a structure by an actuator ...

Characterization of guided waves propagation in aircraft structures

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: DPHM-501 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

The proposed project is knowledge-gap oriented and thus aims at providing the industry with a database of cases for plate guided wave propagation and interaction with defects in aerospace structures. The scope of the project fits between the generation of a guided wave in a structure by an actuator and its measurement by a sensor.

See poster of the project (May 2013)

Development of a non-destructive technique for the detection of hydrogen embrittlement in High-Strength steels

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: DPHM-601 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

Background Delayed failure due to hydrogen diffused during processing of high-strength steels is a big concern in the aircraft industry. Today, there is no NDT that is able to detect the presence of damaging hydrogen in real parts. Therefore, several parts are scrapped during processing when there ...

Development of a non-destructive technique for the detection of hydrogen embrittlement in High-Strength steels

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: DPHM-601 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

Background

Delayed failure due to hydrogen diffused during processing of high-strength steels is a big concern in the aircraft industry. Today, there is no NDT that is able to detect the presence of damaging hydrogen in real parts. Therefore, several parts are scrapped during processing when there is a doubt of hydrogen intrusion.

Objectives:

Scope: The primary scope is to determine the physical property in steels (magnetic, electrical, ) that is the most sensitive to the presence of hydrogen. The aerospace materials of concern are primarily high-strength steels. The second step is then to develop the technique that is going to be able to inspect the parts by detecting the damaging hydrogen.

Diagnostic and Prognostic system for aircraft systems

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: DPHM-702_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project /Program: Maturing Technology

The reduction of aircraft life-cycle cost and the reduction of environmental footprint of aerospace industry trigger innovative ideas not only at design level but also at maintenance level. Operators are looking for highly reliable equipment, nevertheless when a failure occurs, they want to be able ...

Diagnostic and Prognostic system for aircraft systems

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: DPHM-702_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project

Program: Maturing Technology

The reduction of aircraft life-cycle cost and the reduction of environmental footprint of aerospace industry trigger innovative ideas not only at design level but also at maintenance level. Operators are looking for highly reliable equipment, nevertheless when a failure occurs, they want to be able to identify and replace as quickly as feasible the faulty unit. Operators are looking for user-friendly tools to reduce time dedicated to maintenance on their fleet.

An effective aircraft health management integrates all system components into a monitoring strategy consisting in diagnosis and prognosis technologies that addresses failure mode mitigation and life cycle costs. While current signal processing and experienced-based approaches to diagnosis have proven effective in many aircraft applications, knowledge and model-based strategies can provide further improvements and are not necessarily more costly to develop or maintain. Using these new technologies shall enable an improved detection accuracy associated with the capability to identify the failure's root cause. They also will introduce the capability to monitor components degradation in order to better predict maintenance checks, and so doing to reduce life cycle costs. In this research project the consortium will experiment health monitoring technologies on a secondary flight control system. The project first objective is to design, develop and test real-time diagnosis algorithms to detect and isolate failures and identify the root-cause. The project second objective is to design develop and test prognosis algorithms for mechanical units based both on models and on hydraulic bench data. Thales define the objectives and expected results and provide their operational expertise. Thales provide the system and components models as well as operational scenarios. Thales also provide bench test data and perform all representative testing. GlobVision provide its expertise in diagnosis and prognosis on complex systems. They provide the consortium with their know-how in terms of process and algorithms to efficiently provide solutions on fault detection and prediction. Universities of Concordia and Windsor provide their expertise on prognosis advanced algorithms and perform tests using models to measure algorithms efficiency.

Providing aircraft manufacturers with intelligent diagnosis and prognosis capabilities will lead to more intelligent aircraft, enabling to increase aircraft availability and reduce maintenance cost for operators. These competitive advantages will translate into aircraft offer that will be well positioned to win new markets while also meeting environmental concerns identified by the air travel user community. Commercial success of this highly efficient aircraft product would lead to increase manufacturing activities in Canada and a more favorable trade balance to exports.

Super-hydrophobic surface coating for aircraft icing protection

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: ENV-1_Plan C /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

Development of fundamental and practical information regarding the application of super-hydrophobic surface coatings for aircraft wing leading edges on the protected and unprotected areas to mitigate icing. This will be primarily an experimental study, but numerical models will also be developed to ...

Super-hydrophobic surface coating for aircraft icing protection

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: ENV-1_Plan C /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

Development of fundamental and practical information regarding the application of super-hydrophobic surface coatings for aircraft wing leading edges on the protected and unprotected areas to mitigate icing. This will be primarily an experimental study, but numerical models will also be developed to better understand dynamic liquid shedding for heated and unheated surfaces.

The objectives of this project are:

(a) to develop a fundamental understanding of liquid shedding of superhydrophobic surfaces as a way of mitigating icing for unprotected area aft of the leading edge.

(b) to use the fundamental understating generated to provide practical information and tools to allow screening of various types of superhydrophobic surfaces for icing mitigation at the leading edge or the area aft of it.

Next Generation Combustor for Small Gas Turbine Engines

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: ENV-1601_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project /Program: Maturing Technology

Evolve current low emissions technology developed for large turbofan engines to the next generation turboprops by a new combustor system. This new combustion system is an enabler for greenhouse gas reduction on the engine and has the potential to deliver significant reductions of NOx and particulate...

Next Generation Combustor for Small Gas Turbine Engines

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: ENV-1601_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project

Program: Maturing Technology

Evolve current low emissions technology developed for large turbofan engines to the next generation turboprops by a new combustor system. This new combustion system is an enabler for greenhouse gas reduction on the engine and has the potential to deliver significant reductions of NOx and particulate matter while improving component life.

Cabin Noise Modeling

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: ENV-1605 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

When designing a new aircraft, it is a challenge to develop a model of the structure-born noise that will be generated by systems like engine, transmission and oil pump. Such model or analytical tool would serve to assess such noise during the development process to work on mitigation solutions upst...

Cabin Noise Modeling

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: ENV-1605 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

When designing a new aircraft, it is a challenge to develop a model of the structure-born noise that will be generated by systems like engine, transmission and oil pump. Such model or analytical tool would serve to assess such noise during the development process to work on mitigation solutions upstream of the design. This project aims to address the following key areas: Improve knowledge of structure-born noise for specific systems develop models and/or analytical tools to be used during the design phase of a new aircraft Expertise sought: Industrial partners who design aircraft or design/supply noise attenuation solutions

New Acoustic Insulation Meta-Material Technology for Aerospace

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: ENV-1648_INTL /Status: Completed Project /Program: Maturing Technology

OEMs intention is to push the industrialization of the acoustic meta-material (AMM) principles for either primary or secondary insulation. The insulation today is used for thermal and acoustical insulation and its design is driven mainly by the thermal requirements. In the past years companies have ...

New Acoustic Insulation Meta-Material Technology for Aerospace

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: ENV-1648_INTL /Status: Completed Project

International collaboration: Germany

Program: Maturing Technology /Sub-program: International

OEMs intention is to push the industrialization of the acoustic meta-material (AMM) principles for either primary or secondary insulation. The insulation today is used for thermal and acoustical insulation and its design is driven mainly by the thermal requirements. In the past years companies have looked from time to time at the AMM technology with multi-tonal or narrow band pronounced noise spectra in the frequency range between 150Hz and 500Hz. Several approaches have been developed over last years: layered material configuration, embedded resonator inclusions, porous materials. The main goal of the project and the most important requirement for an industrial application is the compatibility of AMM with currently existing insulation blankets.

Redundant Electric Geared Motors for Aircraft Primary Flight Control

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: ENV-404 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

The project will study the feasibility of using clutched hyper-redundant geared motors to replace traditional hydraulic actuators for primary flight controls of aircrafts. The research will study clutching technologies as well as system architectures through simulations and experimental work.

Redundant Electric Geared Motors for Aircraft Primary Flight Control

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: ENV-404 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

The project will study the feasibility of using clutched hyper-redundant geared motors to replace traditional hydraulic actuators for primary flight controls of aircrafts. The research will study clutching technologies as well as system architectures through simulations and experimental work.

Development of a Hybrid Emergency Generation for a More Electric Aircraft

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: ENV-405 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

In order to develop a more electric commercial aircraft, this project will replace the emergency power generation system based on an Air Driven Generator by a hybrid system based upon a hydrogen fuel cell, a set of batteries and super-condensers.

Development of a Hybrid Emergency Generation for a More Electric Aircraft

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: ENV-405 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

In order to develop a more electric commercial aircraft, this project will replace the emergency power generation system based on an Air Driven Generator by a hybrid system based upon a hydrogen fuel cell, a set of batteries and super-condensers.

Exploration of Novel Fuels for Gas Turbine

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: ENV-406 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

The use of novel biofuels in gas turbines is becoming imperative for energy security and sustainability. This project will provide combustion characterization using fundamental flames and generic combustors coupled with numerical simulations to develop design tools to handle these fuels with very di...

Exploration of Novel Fuels for Gas Turbine

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: ENV-406 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

The use of novel biofuels in gas turbines is becoming imperative for energy security and sustainability. This project will provide combustion characterization using fundamental flames and generic combustors coupled with numerical simulations to develop design tools to handle these fuels with very different properties.

Recycling of Thermoset Composites Wastes from Aerospace Industry: Feasibility Study and Proof of Concept

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: ENV-411_Plan C /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

The project aims to establish whether there is enough thermoset composite waste generated in Canada by the aerospace industry to support a domestic recycling effort and identify which technologies would be the most viable to this end. The properties of such recyclates or new materials made from r...

Recycling of Thermoset Composites Wastes from Aerospace Industry: Feasibility Study and Proof of Concept

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: ENV-411_Plan C /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

The project aims to establish whether there is enough thermoset composite waste generated in Canada by the aerospace industry to support a domestic recycling effort and identify which technologies would be the most viable to this end.

The properties of such recyclates or new materials made from recyclates will be evaluated with the intention of identifying commercial uses.

Process for Advanced Management and Technologies of Aircraft End of Life

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: ENV-412 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

Recycling complex products, typical to aeronautic industry, require a high enhancement in Canadian engineering knowledge. The project will study the best ways to part-out, dismantle and recycle an aircraft at its end of life with the objective of increasing its value by recovering, reusing or recycl...

Process for Advanced Management and Technologies of Aircraft End of Life

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: ENV-412 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

Recycling complex products, typical to aeronautic industry, require a high enhancement in Canadian engineering knowledge. The project will study the best ways to part-out, dismantle and recycle an aircraft at its end of life with the objective of increasing its value by recovering, reusing or recycling subassemblies, parts and material.

An experimental platform will be selected and/or built for the purposes of this research program. This project deals also with the design of logistics networks, with Life-Cycle Assessment (LCA) and a redesign approach draft for future developments.

Low Power De-Icing systems for light Helicopters- Phase 2

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: ENV-414 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

The project consists of developing at a rotating blade level non thermal de-icing devices operating in helicopter blade environment and consuming power at substantially lower levels than current thermal devices. It also includes the further development of a mast mounted generator to provide electric...

Low Power De-Icing systems for light Helicopters- Phase 2

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: ENV-414 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

The project consists of developing at a rotating blade level non thermal de-icing devices operating in helicopter blade environment and consuming power at substantially lower levels than current thermal devices. It also includes the further development of a mast mounted generator to provide electric power to the blade without slip rings.

Understanding the role and use of superhydrophobic coatings for aircraft and powerplant icing

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: ENV-420 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

This project is the continuation of a one-year project on “Ice-phobic evaluation of superhydrophobic coatings for aircraft icing protection”. Phase 2 of this project is aimed at improving the technology readiness level (TRL) from 2 to 4 through a combined numerical and experimental study....

Understanding the role and use of superhydrophobic coatings for aircraft and powerplant icing

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: ENV-420 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

This project is the continuation of a one-year project on “Ice-phobic evaluation of superhydrophobic coatings for aircraft icing protection”. Phase 2 of this project is aimed at improving the technology readiness level (TRL) from 2 to 4 through a combined numerical and experimental study.

It will specifically focus on drop interactions with superhydrophobic surfaces in static (initially stationary drop) and dynamic (impact) conditions.

See poster of the project (May 2013)

Low Power De-icing Systems for Light Weight Helicopters

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: ENV-702 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

Le projet vise à poursuivre les travaux du projet ENV-414 dans les domaines suivants: - Dégivrage piézo-électrique de pales rotor: optimisation du systéme et identification d’actuateurs « robustes » - Revêtements...

Low Power De-icing Systems for Light Weight Helicopters

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: ENV-702 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

Le projet vise à poursuivre les travaux du projet ENV-414 dans les domaines suivants:

- Dégivrage piézo-électrique de pales rotor: optimisation du systéme et identification d’actuateurs « robustes »
- Revêtements anti-givre: évaluation de revêtements avec faible adhérence au givre pour application potentielle sur hélicoptére
- Physique du givrage: poursuite de la recherche de ENV-414
- Développement d’un systéme de contrôle sans fil pour transmission sans contact de courant électrique aux pales rotor
- Modélisation du transfert de chaleur convective sur pales rotor
Expertises recherchées - Partenaires avec les expertises suivantes:
- Conception de systémes de dégivrage piézo-électrique et l’évaluation de concept d’actuateurs commerciaux
- Évaluation et tests de revêtements anti-givre évolués
- Recherche dans la physique du givrage
- Contrôle sans fil de systémes / composantes embarqués

Optimisation of Fireproof, Pressurized Acoustic Sandwich Structures

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: ENV-708 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

The use of composite and aluminum materials in the aeronautic industry has the potential to significantly reduce the weight of aircrafts and hence their fuel consumption. The primary purpose of the project presented here is to focus on the fire protection of acoustic sandwich panels made of composit...

Optimisation of Fireproof, Pressurized Acoustic Sandwich Structures

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: ENV-708 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

The use of composite and aluminum materials in the aeronautic industry has the potential to significantly reduce the weight of aircrafts and hence their fuel consumption. The primary purpose of the project presented here is to focus on the fire protection of acoustic sandwich panels made of composite materials for use in bypass ducts of aircraft engines. The secondary purpose is the fire protection of acoustic sandwich panels made of aluminum materials for use in fan cases of aircraft engines. The objectives of the project are to identify the failure modes of current sandwich structures and quantify the benefits that can be incurred through the use of various fireproofing strategies. The parameters of importance for this evaluation are weight, cost, ease of manufacturing, mechanical and acoustical properties in service and mechanical properties under flame attack.

Magneto-Rheological Fluid (MRF) Characterization, Optimization and Condition Monitoring for Aircraft Flight Control Actuators

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: ENV-709 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

The proposed ENV-709 research program builds upon the promising results from the CRIAQ project ENV-404 (round 4) where novel architecture designs for electromechanical actuators were developed around MagnetoRheological Fluid (MRF) clutches maintained in slippage. The ENV-404 project demonstrated tha...

Magneto-Rheological Fluid (MRF) Characterization, Optimization and Condition Monitoring for Aircraft Flight Control Actuators

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: ENV-709 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

The proposed ENV-709 research program builds upon the promising results from the CRIAQ project ENV-404 (round 4) where novel architecture designs for electromechanical actuators were developed around MagnetoRheological Fluid (MRF) clutches maintained in slippage. The ENV-404 project demonstrated that such MRF actuators have to potential to meet and even surpass the reliability and performance requirements of helicopter primary flight control actuation. The ENV-404 project indentified that MRF aging is a key issue that must be clearly understood and addressed to improve reliability and maintainability of MRF actuators and push the technology to further TRL. In the proposed CRIAQ ENV-709 project, Bell Helicopter and UdeS joint efforts towards reliable MRF technology will be emphasized by key partners in the name of GasTOPS and McGill University. GasTOPS joins as a leader in Condition Monitoring (CM) of machinery systems including fluid life monitoring in aerospace applications, while McGill joins as a top of the line chemistry laboratory with expertise in advanced fluid formulation. All partners have strong commitment to bring this CRIAQ-born innovation to the market by establishing knowledge on MRF aging and developing new monitoring technologies. The collective and synergistic development of the MRF actuator technological platform would position Canadian aerospace industry as a world leader in electromechanical actuators, which would be a strategic asset in today’s realm of More Electric Aircraft.

Development and Evaluation of Noise Measurement Techniques in Low- and High-Speed Wind Tunnel

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: ENV-715 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

The proposed project aims to investigate various measurement techniques of wall-pressure fluctuations induced by turbulent flow and of noise in wind tunnel environments. It will enable the development and evaluation of various acoustic measurement techniques in low- and high-speed wind tunnels. Carl...

Development and Evaluation of Noise Measurement Techniques in Low- and High-Speed Wind Tunnel

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: ENV-715 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

The proposed project aims to investigate various measurement techniques of wall-pressure fluctuations induced by turbulent flow and of noise in wind tunnel environments. It will enable the development and evaluation of various acoustic measurement techniques in low- and high-speed wind tunnels. Carleton University has a High-Speed Wind Tunnel, a unique facility non-existent elsewhere in Canada. This facility is fundamental for this project, providing air flow speeds up to supersonic regime, a necessary capability to replicate airflow conditions similar to those of cruise flight. Bombardier is interested in minimizing the number of extensive and expensive flight tests required for noise measurements, and in reducing the noise levels in their aircraft fleet. MDS Aero is interested in investigating and minimizing the noise generation inside their engine test cell exhaust system. Through this project, both Bombardier Aerospace and MDS Aero Corporation will be able to optimize their product designs.

Modelling of Airport emissions impact on local air quality in the Montréal Region

Theme: AVIATION SERVICES AND OPERATIONS

Acronym: ENV-722 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

Description: Afin de répondre aux exigences environnementales, aux inquiétudes de la population notamment des riverains des sites aéroportuaires et industriels, et de proposer des voies d'amélioration efficaces, il est indispensable de s'appuyer sur des él...

Modelling of Airport emissions impact on local air quality in the Montréal Region

Theme: AVIATION SERVICES AND OPERATIONS

Acronym: ENV-722 /Status: Completed Project

International collaboration: France

Program: Exploring Technology /Sub-program: International


Description:
Afin de répondre aux exigences environnementales, aux inquiétudes de la population notamment des riverains des sites aéroportuaires et industriels, et de proposer des voies d'amélioration efficaces, il est indispensable de s'appuyer sur des éléments scientifiques et tangibles de réflexion et de décision. Ces éléments doivent notamment reposer sur un accroissement des capacités de prédiction des modéles numériques, en augmentant leur précision. Celle-ci passe en partie par une meilleure description des processus physiques impliqués, en particulier au niveau des petites échelles (haute résolution sur la zone aéroportuaire ou industrielle), et une caractérisation des sources fiables.
Le projet vise à la mise en place de travaux nécessaires pour l'élaboration d'un programme innovant sur la modélisation de la qualité de l'air locale des activités aéroportuaires et industriels.
Objectifs :
• Développer les outils pour une meilleure prédiction des zones d’accumulation et des épisodes de pollution sur l’aéroport international Pierre-Eliott-Trudeau de Montréal et sur le site industriel de la rive sud de Montréal du motoriste aéronautique P&WC
• Déterminer la contribution de l’aéroport et des sources respectives sur la qualité de l’air de la zone urbaine de Montréal par le biais d’une campagne de mesure.

Additive Manufacturing Optimization and Simulation Platform for repairing and re-manufacturing of aerospace components – AMOS

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: EUCA-AMOS /Status: Completed Project

This research project is a Canada and European collaborative project. It focuses on several key Direct Energy Deposition (DED) Additive Manufacturing (AM) processes that have great potential to be used as cost-effective and efficient repairing and re-manufacturing processes for aerospace components ...

Additive Manufacturing Optimization and Simulation Platform for repairing and re-manufacturing of aerospace components – AMOS

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: EUCA-AMOS /Status: Completed Project

International collaboration: Europe

/Sub-program: International

This research project is a Canada and European collaborative project. It focuses on several key Direct Energy Deposition (DED) Additive Manufacturing (AM) processes that have great potential to be used as cost-effective and efficient repairing and re-manufacturing processes for aerospace components such as turbine blades and landing gears. This project aims to conduct fundamental research to understand the material integrity through chosen DED AM processes, the accuracy and limitations of these deposition processes, effective defect geometry mapping and generation methods, and automated and hybrid DED and post-deposition machining strategies. This project intends to connect repair and re-manufacturing strategies with design through accurate DED process simulation and novel multi-disciplinary design optimisation (MDO) methods to ultimately reduce the weakness of aerospace component at design stage and prolong their the lifecycles. Both powder-based and wire-based DED systems will be investigated to establish an across-the-board comparative study. The data collected through this comprehensive comparative study will be extremely valuable for the OEMs of this project (i.e. GKN, PWC, and HDI) to understand the pros and cons of these DED systems and will help them to select suitable repair and re-manufacturing strategies. The tests conducted in this research are also extremely beneficial for the SMEs in this project (i.e. Liburdi, AV&R, DPS) to validate their existing repairing systems and techniques. Common DED processes are controlled either by a CNC controller or a robotic controller depending on the type of machine that carries the deposition nozzle system. In the proposed research, both CNC controlled and robotic controlled DED systems are going to be studied. There are three aerospace alloys to be investigated in this research: Ti-6Al-4V, Inconel 718, and 300M alloy steel. The research team is multidisciplinary and complementary in expertise and research facilities. The Canadian research team includes academics from McGill University and University of Ottawa. The European research team includes academics from Ecole Centrale de Nantes in France and University of Sheffield in UK.

Electromagnetic Platform for lightweight Integration/Installation of electrical systems in Composite Electrical Aircraft

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: EUCA-EPICEA /Status: Completed Project

This three-year EU-Canadian joint research venture called “EPICEA” is to release, validate and verify a unique computer environment (i.e. the EPICEA platform) assimilating a complete understanding of electromagnetic (EM) issues on Composite Electric Aircraft (CEA – i.e. aircraft wi...

Electromagnetic Platform for lightweight Integration/Installation of electrical systems in Composite Electrical Aircraft

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: EUCA-EPICEA /Status: Completed Project

International collaboration: Europe

/Sub-program: International

This three-year EU-Canadian joint research venture called “EPICEA” is to release, validate and verify a unique computer environment (i.e. the EPICEA platform) assimilating a complete understanding of electromagnetic (EM) issues on Composite Electric Aircraft (CEA – i.e. aircraft with composite and electric technologies combined and operating at higher altitude/latitude). EM on CEA includes EM coupling, interconnects, and Cosmic Radiations (CR) on electrical systems together with new concepts of antennas designed to maintain performance in composite environment without modifying aircraft aerodynamics. In EPICEA, CR, as parts of the EM spectrum, are considered as part of the EM environmental hazards such as lightning or HIRF (High Intensity Radiated Fields). The targeted computer platform will support a decision making process for selection of the best strategy for the integration of electrical systems. Starting at a TRL3, the consortium will demonstrate a TRL4 at the end of the project.

Super-IcePhobic Surfaces to Prevent Ice Formation on Aircraft (PHOBIC2ICE)

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: EUCA-PHOBIC2ICE /Status: Completed Project

PHOBIC2ICE will develop technologies and predictive simulation tools to avoid or mitigate the accretion of ice on aircraft, a significant problem for aircraft. Accretion of ice on aerostructures poses challenges for both aircraft security (as flying is restricted to only certain atmospheric conditio...

Super-IcePhobic Surfaces to Prevent Ice Formation on Aircraft (PHOBIC2ICE)

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: EUCA-PHOBIC2ICE /Status: Completed Project

International collaboration: Europe

/Sub-program: International

PHOBIC2ICE will develop technologies and predictive simulation tools to avoid or mitigate the accretion of ice on aircraft, a significant problem for aircraft. Accretion of ice on aerostructures poses challenges for both aircraft security (as flying is restricted to only certain atmospheric conditions or to aircraft equipped with certified anti-icing technologies) and sustainability (by increasing the aerodynamic drag and thus increasing fuel burn). Several ice protection technologies are presently in use, however most of them have inherent negative effects such as high energy consumption, weight, environmental impact, high costs, and frequent reapplication need among others. PHOBIC2ICE will create a suite of innovative surface engineering solutions to reduce or eliminate ice accretion, including the development and evaluation of ice accretion simulation tools; novel protective coatings using green manufacturing processes; and sensors to detect the onset of ice formation on aircraft.

Film Cooling Technology for Turbine Airfoils

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: MDO-INDIA-1_INTL /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

Comprehensive experimental and numerical research program to develop benchmark data which will assist the Canadian aerospace industry to develop cooling methods for the next generation of high-temperature gas turbines.

Film Cooling Technology for Turbine Airfoils

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: MDO-INDIA-1_INTL /Status: Completed Project

International collaboration: India

Program: Exploring Technology /Sub-program: International

Comprehensive experimental and numerical research program to develop benchmark data which will assist the Canadian aerospace industry to develop cooling methods for the next generation of high-temperature gas turbines.

Optimization of Elliptical Spray Fuel Nozzle

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: MDO-INDIA-2_INTL /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

The main objective is to simulate fuel spray in circular and elliptical nozzles and evaluate the combustor performance under various operating conditions. This numerical study is different from past investigations in that it takes a comprehensive approach to the issue of simulating fuel atomization ...

Optimization of Elliptical Spray Fuel Nozzle

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: MDO-INDIA-2_INTL /Status: Completed Project

International collaboration: India

Program: Exploring Technology /Sub-program: International

The main objective is to simulate fuel spray in circular and elliptical nozzles and evaluate the combustor performance under various operating conditions. This numerical study is different from past investigations in that it takes a comprehensive approach to the issue of simulating fuel atomization and its strong interaction with the reacting flow in the combustor.

This will allow us to predict the oscillatory atomization, vaporization, and mixing behaviour as a major source for combustion instabilities in gas turbine engines [5]. Consequently, the outcome of this study will facilitate optimization of elliptical fuel nozzle design.

Slinger combustion system of gas turbine engines

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: MDO-INDIA-3_INTL /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

A new combustion concept will be intensively studied to develop and prove the Slinger concept with the collaborating partners. Eventually a prototype will be built with variousdetailed measurements. The main objective of the work at Laval University is to study numerically this new concept and to i...

Slinger combustion system of gas turbine engines

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: MDO-INDIA-3_INTL /Status: Completed Project

International collaboration: India

Program: Exploring Technology /Sub-program: International

A new combustion concept will be intensively studied to develop and prove the Slinger concept with the collaborating partners. Eventually a prototype will be built with variousdetailed measurements.

The main objective of the work at Laval University is to study numerically this new concept and to integrate spray measurements into CFD calculations to improve their reliability in terms of more accurate results to provide the best predictive tool with the required technological advantage of any innovative progress.

IITK will carry out the proof of slinger concept through bench tests. NAL will perform the high pressure rig tests.

Fretting Wear Material Characterization of Combustor Components / Characterization of Machining-induced Residual Stresses in Titanium-based Alloys

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-INDIA-4_INTL /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

McGill University, Pratt & Whitney Canada (PWC), the National Research Council of Canada, and the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM) are undertaking research to create a model that can predict contact wear of components in the combustion chamber of a turbine engine. The purpose of the...

Fretting Wear Material Characterization of Combustor Components / Characterization of Machining-induced Residual Stresses in Titanium-based Alloys

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-INDIA-4_INTL /Status: Completed Project

International collaboration: India

Program: Exploring Technology /Sub-program: International

McGill University, Pratt & Whitney Canada (PWC), the National Research Council of Canada, and the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM) are undertaking research to create a model that can predict contact wear of components in the combustion chamber of a turbine engine.

The purpose of the model is to be able to design a combustion chamber without the need of prototype testing. In addition, the group will create a model that can predict the stress distribution in a machined piece of titanium. The model will help engineers to design machining programs that minimize the stress created during machining.

Turbine Rim Seal Research

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: MDO-INDIA-5_INTL /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

Pratt & Whitney Canada designs and manufactures gas turbine engines for a variety of applications. All gas turbines involve propulsive hot gas flow, rotating blades and stationary casing. The small gap between the rotating disc supporting the blades and the stationary wall is called the "di...

Turbine Rim Seal Research

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: MDO-INDIA-5_INTL /Status: Completed Project

International collaboration: India

Program: Exploring Technology /Sub-program: International

Pratt & Whitney Canada designs and manufactures gas turbine engines for a variety of applications. All gas turbines involve propulsive hot gas flow, rotating blades and stationary casing. The small gap between the rotating disc supporting the blades and the stationary wall is called the "disc cavity", and ideally, it should be closed by the "turbine rim seal" so as to minimize the ingestion of hot gas into the rotor-stator disc cavity. Pratt & Whitney's engineers have recently identified the turbine rim seal as a critical part of the internal air system where improved technology is likely to result in significant turbine efficiency improvements and fuel burn reductions. To address this important issue, P&WC is assembling a proposal for research work on gas turbine rim seal performance which should involve several partners:

1- the CRIAQ (Consortium de Recherche et d'Innovation en Aérospatiale au Québec),
2- a Québec-based university,
3- P&WC (as manager of the whole initiative), and
4- Infotech and NAL (National Aerospace Laboratory) in Bangalore, India.

De-sensitised Tip Design in Compressors

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: MDO-INDIA-6_INTL /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

This project is to develop novel compressor rotor tip profile or shroud designs to minimize the effect of larger rotor tip clearance to aircraft engine performance and operability. The project will initiate with validation of CFD predictions with larger tip clearance to both compressor performance a...

De-sensitised Tip Design in Compressors

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: MDO-INDIA-6_INTL /Status: Completed Project

International collaboration: India

Program: Exploring Technology /Sub-program: International

This project is to develop novel compressor rotor tip profile or shroud designs to minimize the effect of larger rotor tip clearance to aircraft engine performance and operability. The project will initiate with validation of CFD predictions with larger tip clearance to both compressor performance and surge margin. Then the state-of-art CFD code will be used to optimize rotor tip profile design with larger rotor tip clearance. The best rotor design will be validated on a low speed compressor rig at IIT Bombay.

The design concept will be applied to high speed engine design. The benefits of this research will be to reduce compressor performance deterioration in field service and to reduce the sensitivity of performance and surge margin reduction with increased tip clearance.

The principal investigators of this project will be Prof. Huu Duc Vo (Ecole Polytechnique), Prof. Dominique Pelletier (Ecole Polytechnique), Prof. B. Roy and A.M. Pradeep (IIT, Bombay) and Dr. Hong Yu ( Pratt & Whitney Canada)

Biofuels

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: ENV-INDIA-7_INTL /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

This project is part of the ISTP project whose funding has been approved. P&WC and Infotech will be leading a consortium of Canadian and Indian companies and universities. Canadian participants: + Pratt & Whitney Canada (P&WC) + National Research Council (NRC) + Laval University...

Biofuels

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: ENV-INDIA-7_INTL /Status: Completed Project

International collaboration: India

Program: Exploring Technology /Sub-program: International

This project is part of the ISTP project whose funding has been approved. P&WC and Infotech will be leading a consortium of Canadian and Indian companies and universities.

Canadian participants:

+ Pratt & Whitney Canada (P&WC)
+ National Research Council (NRC)
+ Laval University
+ McGill University
+ Ryerson University

Indian participants:
+ Infotech Enterprises Ltd. (Infotech)
+ Indian Oil Corp. Ltd. (IOCL) Hindustan
+ Petroleum Corp. Ltd. (HPCL)
+ Indian Institute of Petroleum (IIP)
+ Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur (IITK)
+ Indian Institute of Science (IISc)

Plasma Actuation for Improved Aircraft Aerodynamics

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: MDO-INDIA-8_INTL /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

PROJECT 1: Flow Laminarization Using Plasma Actuation PROJECT 2: Lift Enhancement with Plasma Actuation PROJECT 3: Flight Control Using Plasma actuation

Plasma Actuation for Improved Aircraft Aerodynamics

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: MDO-INDIA-8_INTL /Status: Completed Project

International collaboration: India

Program: Exploring Technology /Sub-program: International

PROJECT 1: Flow Laminarization Using Plasma Actuation
PROJECT 2: Lift Enhancement with Plasma Actuation
PROJECT 3: Flight Control Using Plasma actuation

Wood Veneer Clear Coat Dimensional Instability

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: INTD-501 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

The project aims at understanding the mechanisms for the appearance of waviness, dimples, orange peel appearance on the surface of coatings on veneers for wood furniture used in the interior of business jets. Extensive analysis on the different components of the system will be done. The problem is c...

Wood Veneer Clear Coat Dimensional Instability

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: INTD-501 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

The project aims at understanding the mechanisms for the appearance of waviness, dimples, orange peel appearance on the surface of coatings on veneers for wood furniture used in the interior of business jets. Extensive analysis on the different components of the system will be done. The problem is common for all manufacturers in the industry.

See poster of the project (May 2013)

Epoxy reticulation and surface defects of decorative panels for aircraft interior design (EPOX)

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: INTD-502 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

Le présent projet de recherche vise à identifier, puis éliminer les défauts produits dans les zones de fixation des panneaux composites de l'ameublement intérieur des avions d'affaires. Le projet visera à établir un lien entre ces défa...

Epoxy reticulation and surface defects of decorative panels for aircraft interior design (EPOX)

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: INTD-502 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

Le présent projet de recherche vise à identifier, puis éliminer les défauts produits dans les zones de fixation des panneaux composites de l'ameublement intérieur des avions d'affaires.

Le projet visera à établir un lien entre ces défauts de surface, la polymérisation de la résine époxy, les inserts mécaniques utilisés et les variations hygro-thermiques de l'environnement. Les défauts de surface seront étudiés en détail afin d'identifier les causes possibles du probléme. Des solutions à court et à long terme seront proposées et validées afin de diminuer dans un premier temps, puis éliminer ces défauts.

Des recommandations industrielles plus générales seront proposées à la fin du projet afin d'améliorer les méthodes de fabrication des panneaux composites de l'ameublement intérieur des avions d'affaire.

See poster of the project (May 2013)

Lean Engineering in Aerospace

Theme: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE & DATA VALORIZATION

Acronym: LEAN-405 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

The goal of the Lean Engineering in Aerospace project is to apply lean principles to the design process in new product development.

Lean Engineering in Aerospace

Theme: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE & DATA VALORIZATION

Acronym: LEAN-405 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

The goal of the Lean Engineering in Aerospace project is to apply lean principles to the design process in new product development.

Lean Aerospace Value Streams

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: LEAN-501 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

This project focuses on developing lean techniques for the aerospace industry. While initially developed for the automotive industry, the aerospace industry has been benefiting from them as well, despite the fact that they are characterized by lower volumes and higher product variety. The main phil...

Lean Aerospace Value Streams

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: LEAN-501 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

This project focuses on developing lean techniques for the aerospace industry. While initially developed for the automotive industry, the aerospace industry has been benefiting from them as well, despite the fact that they are characterized by lower volumes and higher product variety.

The main philosophy in lean is to increase value by eliminating waste. Successful implementation of lean value streams requires stability in man, machine, products and processes.

Machined Part Multifactorial Estimation Demonstrator

Theme: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE & DATA VALORIZATION

Acronym: LEAN-702_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project /Program: Maturing Technology

The manufacturing of aerospace parts presents several important challenges, including time and cost of production. In today’s changing the economical context of today `doing well the first time 'is imperative to maintain the competitiveness of companies in the sector. The search for effici...

Machined Part Multifactorial Estimation Demonstrator

Theme: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE & DATA VALORIZATION

Acronym: LEAN-702_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project

Program: Maturing Technology

The manufacturing of aerospace parts presents several important challenges, including time and cost of production. In today’s changing the economical context of today `doing well the first time 'is imperative to maintain the competitiveness of companies in the sector. The search for efficiency is today fueled by various opportunities from emerging technologies such as 3D metrology and additive manufacturing (AF), which offer a multitude of opportunities possibilities with significant potential. As an example, the AF allows the creation of complex geometry parts and multiple functions that are not feasible by traditional methods. That said, although these new technologies make it possible to envisage a revolution in the manufacturing process of aerospace parts, they are not applicable in all circumstances. Indeed, the criterion of profitability remains essential to the implementation of any new technology. As a result, several studies are underway to consider hybrid processes that combine the so-called conventional technologies with the new ones in order to obtain competitive solutions that respect the quality criteria and the standards imposed by the clients. More specifically, this project will focus on the design and manufacture of the tools used for the production manufacture of aeronautical components (e.g. positioning template for machining, drilling template, etc.).

Considering that any activity other than that the one leading to the creation of production parts does not represent a real added value to the overall process, . Iit can be seen that the design and manufacture of manufacturing production tools can be regarded as a 'badly needed'. Nevertheless, this activity has a significant importance on the challenges mentioned. As an indication, it is very common for tools to represent several tens of thousands of dollars and generate delays of the order of 60 days and more depending on the case. The purpose of the proposed project is to consider this activity differently. In other words, how can the design and manufacture of tooling be adapted to take advantage of the technological potential offered by the FA, 3D metrology and new manufacturing processes in general? Although the introduction of these new options offers concrete alternatives of manufacturing improvement, it is also necessary to consider the constraints and challenges associated with this assumption. To name just a few, the size of the parts that can be produced, as well as the homogeneity, cost and environmental sensitivity of the materials used in the FA, the modularity of the tools, the determination of dimensional requirements, Identification of the capabilities of a numerically controlled machine-tool-tool assembly, etc.

As a premise of the project presented in this proposal, the team identified categories of tools with significant potential for improvement in order to secure a realistic potential for the creation of competitive advantages through the creation of design strategies, bBased on hybrid technologies. These strategies will then be applicable in order to extend their impact on the overall practices of the manufacturing companies involved. After an exhaustive inventory of the state of the art, the approach chosen is to value and combine the new manufacturing technologies within the tried and true strategies by rethinking the creative approach and, in an ideal world, to replace certain technologies tTools or certain internal practices. This vision makes it possible to envisage that the strategies generated are applicable and profitable under the conditions of the market. In addition, we argue that the use of existing technologies and materials (high TRL) will significantly reduce the time required for the industrialization phase. The innovation targeted by this project is based on several interesting advances made in the last decade in terms of materials and the diversity of families of available technologies. Our team has a solid experience in the aerospace parts manufacturing environment as it integrates all the typical players in the supply chain.

The project we propose will enable us to implement several innovative strategies in a highly industrialized demonstration (preliminary) form. Implementing a synergy in the supply chain involved through the implementation of a joint design-manufacturing process as well as a better understanding of the financial factors will only increase the success rate of the Group in commercial proposals to the prime contractors. The harmonization of best industrial practices with the advances proposed by the technologies (FA, CNN, 3D metrology) offers the group the opportunity to develop reflexes of tailored adaptations to the various technical problems presented, which translates into a pragmatic enhancement of Local technical competitiveness. Finally, the "Industry-Academy" matching in this representative industry environment will enhance the quality of the learning and publications produced by the researchers, students and trainees involved.

Manufacturing of A205 components

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-1613_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project /Program: Maturing Technology

Determine thermal, physical and mechanical properties of parts manufactured in investment casting, sand casting and / or additive manufacturing Evaluate and compare component manufacturability and economic viability of the different processes Determine effect of long term temperature exposure on all...

Manufacturing of A205 components

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-1613_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project

Program: Maturing Technology

Determine thermal, physical and mechanical properties of parts manufactured in investment casting, sand casting and / or additive manufacturing Evaluate and compare component manufacturability and economic viability of the different processes Determine effect of long term temperature exposure on alloy behavior Evaluate alloy compatibility with current surface treatments, surface cleaning and component repair techniques Expertise sought: +Investment casting +Sand casting +Powder-based additive manufacturing +Aluminum surface treatment +Microstructure +Basic mechanical testing

Robotic Liquid Polymer Transformation

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: MANU-1622_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project /Program: Maturing Technology

Elasto Proxy Inc. plans to develop unique and advanced compounds to extrude, pour and cure in place using an adapted robotic cell to automate the process of delivering various designs and shapes of seals.The vision is to develop creative designs and shapes to fill the gap that the current technology...

Robotic Liquid Polymer Transformation

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: MANU-1622_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project

Program: Maturing Technology

Elasto Proxy Inc. plans to develop unique and advanced compounds to extrude, pour and cure in place using an adapted robotic cell to automate the process of delivering various designs and shapes of seals.The vision is to develop creative designs and shapes to fill the gap that the current technology does not fulfill the requirements of the industrial market. Our objective will be to accelerate to the market various elastomeric compounds paired with diverse designs and shapes while maintaining consistency and quality through out the innovative process.We aim to leverage our current market share by adapting advanced manufacturing processes to compete against international competitors. The partnership is established between two industry partners (Elasto Proxy and GÉNIK) and three academic partners (Université Laval, CRIQ and CRVI). The projected impact and benefits include producing innovative advanced materials to markets v.s. building to print (job shop), creating jobs for engineers and technicians, transforming from manual to automated process.

Post-processïng of laser powder bed-fused 1N625 components for better mechanical properties,surface finish and tolerances

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: MANU-1625 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

The proposed research will develop and validate a set of bulk- and surface- post-processing technologies applicable to high-temperature IN625 components produced by laser powder-bed fusion (L-PBF). In the framework of this project, an extended study of the post-processing-microstructure-properties i...

Post-processïng of laser powder bed-fused 1N625 components for better mechanical properties,surface finish and tolerances

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: MANU-1625 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

The proposed research will develop and validate a set of bulk- and surface- post-processing technologies applicable to high-temperature IN625 components produced by laser powder-bed fusion (L-PBF). In the framework of this project, an extended study of the post-processing-microstructure-properties interrelations will be carried out. As a result, an original sequence of heat and HIP treatment will be developed to avoid precipitation of intergranular carbide particles reducing material ductility at high temperatures.

Moreover, significant data on the high temperature mechanical properties of IN625 alloy, including creep resistance, will be generated. Moreover, a set of finishing technologies capable of significantly decreasing internal surface roughness of L-PBF tubular components will be developed, validated and prepared for industrial deployment. Three finishing technologies will be tested comparatively and in combination: electropolishing, abrasive flow machining and chemical-mechanical polishing. Finally, multifaceted metrics of the surface topology assessment and geometrical tolerancing of L-PBF components with finishing technologies will be developed to allow for reliable design and certification of IN625 components for aerospace applications.

Aluminum Parameters Characterization & Optimization for Additive Manufacturing (APCO -AM)

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: MANU-1716_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project /Program: Maturing Technology

FusiA Impression 3D Métal Inc., Tekna, McGill and Laval Universities have been in different research projects based on additive manufacturing processes in the past years. These projects allowed each stakeholder to develop unique expertise in this technology, and have shown its applicabi...

Aluminum Parameters Characterization & Optimization for Additive Manufacturing (APCO -AM)

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: MANU-1716_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project

Program: Maturing Technology /Sub-program: PME Demonstrator

FusiA Impression 3D Métal Inc., Tekna, McGill and Laval Universities have been in different research
projects based on additive manufacturing processes in the past years. These projects allowed each
stakeholder to develop unique expertise in this technology, and have shown its applicability within the
aerospace sector, despite all the regulations and standards existing in this field.
In continuity with their respective projects, FusiA Impression 3D Métal Inc., Tekna, McGill and Laval
Universities wish to push forward the limit of additive manufacturing processing by not only optimizing the
parameters for aluminum alloy parts production itself, but to also consider an integrated optimization that
consider pre- and post-treatment, to maximise part performance.
The objective is to link the powder processing with the manufacturing and post-treatment chain through
the characterization, development and optimization of aluminum parameters on additive machines as a
function of the powder characteristics and the ideal post fabrication microstructure to maximise the part
response after post-processing to be able to reproduce, in an aerospace environment, parts with a more
competitive ratios. This project will imply to integrate the current powder alloy characteristics, to develop optimized parameters and validate these new parameters on viable business cases.
The aim is to achieve a TRL 6 level with a full demonstration of our improvement to be able to put these parameters in production, which would allow the industrial partners to offer an improved technical answer
while considerably reducing the cost of production. Such a gain will open new opportunities for the adoption of the technology within the aerospace field.

Design, Development and Testing of a High-Performance Prototype Rocket Engine

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: MANU-1721_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project /Program: Maturing Technology

Featuring advanced proprietary fuels, Reaction Dynamics is pioneering a novel type of propulsion systems based on its experimentally demonstrated rocket technology. Combined with metal additive manufacturing, this technology reduces vehicle part count from nearly 100,000 to under 1,000 components...

Design, Development and Testing of a High-Performance Prototype Rocket Engine

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: MANU-1721_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project

Program: Maturing Technology /Sub-program: PME Demonstrator

Featuring advanced proprietary fuels, Reaction Dynamics is pioneering a novel type of propulsion systems based on its experimentally demonstrated rocket technology. Combined with metal additive manufacturing, this technology reduces vehicle part count from nearly 100,000 to under 1,000 components, which alleviates considerable development issues, reducing costs and production lead times. The space missions targeted are small satellites and microsatellites (10-150 kg) launches to low earth orbit (LEO) and Sun Synchronous Orbit (SSO), starting as early as 2022. In addition to orbital launch vehicles, multiple other noteworthy commercial applications exist for the engine technology developed. It could be used for Reaction Control System (RCS) of spacecrafts as well as for precise orbital insertion, orbital maneuvering and/or deorbiting of satellites.

This project will allow the development of a rocket engine prototype with the thrust level required for orbital launch vehicle applications, that are cocurrently under development. The capabilities acquired will be leveraged for the design and characterization of flight hardware, and will allow Reaction Dynamics bring new know-how to the aerospace industry in Montreal and the rest of Canada.

Processes for removal of erosion resistant coatings

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-4 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

This project proposes to develop a combination of a process and an anti-erosion coating which allows one to repair coated components of aircrafts engines. The coatings should be removed efficiently and in an environmentally friendly way; the impact on the base material and on the performance of the ...

Processes for removal of erosion resistant coatings

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-4 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

This project proposes to develop a combination of a process and an anti-erosion coating which allows one to repair coated components of aircrafts engines. The coatings should be removed efficiently and in an environmentally friendly way; the impact on the base material and on the performance of the part should be minimized, and the part should be suitable for being re-coated. Reduce the number of manufacturing steps improve the final tolerances.

Objectives :

A: To develop a stripping method of anti-erosion protective coatings. The method should exhibit minimum effect on the components base material (profile, mechanical properties). Two methods are considered: a) wet chemical removal; b) dry plasma-based removal.

B: To develop and optimize an erosion-resistant coating, fabricated by Cathodic Arc Physical Vapor Deposition (CA-PVD), that can be easily stripped in order to be repaired.
The stripping methods and conditions have to respect the requirements of minimum impact on the environment (green, environmentally friendly) as well as low cost; considerations should include decontamination of the products used for stripping, low rejection rate of the device etc.

The scope of the project is highly relevant to the nanotechnology-related initiatives in Quebec.

Brazing Process Optimisation for Structural Aerospace Applications

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-405 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

Optimization of the process of brazing alloys for joining different aerospace alloys used in gas turbine engines. Characterization of the brazed joints; the main goal being to develop structural joints and characterize their mechanical properties.

Brazing Process Optimisation for Structural Aerospace Applications

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-405 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

Optimization of the process of brazing alloys for joining different aerospace alloys used in gas turbine engines.

Characterization of the brazed joints; the main goal being to develop structural joints and characterize their mechanical properties.

Closed Door Machining - In-Process Measurements

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-408 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

Productivity is hampered by frequent program interruptions for operator sizing cuts and other process verifications. The project aims to replace such operations by on-machine gauging and automated program changes to achieve un-broken program runs.

Closed Door Machining - In-Process Measurements

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-408 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

Productivity is hampered by frequent program interruptions for operator sizing cuts and other process verifications. The project aims to replace such operations by on-machine gauging and automated program changes to achieve un-broken program runs.

Automated Deburring & Part Finishing

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-409_Plan C /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

In order to save future effort by eliminating areas and issues that are either well understood or irrelevant to industry end users, a one year CRIAQ plan-C project is proposed with three main goals. Students participating in this project (4 masters, 3 undergraduates) are spread among the four indus...

Automated Deburring & Part Finishing

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-409_Plan C /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

In order to save future effort by eliminating areas and issues that are either well understood or irrelevant to industry end users, a one year CRIAQ plan-C project is proposed with three main goals.

Students participating in this project (4 masters, 3 undergraduates) are spread among the four industrial partners. They will be coordinated by a post-doc and co-supervised by manufacturing research experts from academia and industry.

Al-Li skin pocket milling

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-412 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

Chemical milling is used for creating shallow pockets in thin panels. Mechanical milling is sought as a replacement process due to its lighter environmental impact. Many unknowns remain before mechanical milling can be effectively used. What are the necessary conditions for the process to be po...

Al-Li skin pocket milling

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-412 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

Chemical milling is used for creating shallow pockets in thin panels. Mechanical milling is sought as a replacement process due to its lighter environmental impact. Many unknowns remain before mechanical milling can be effectively used.

What are the necessary conditions for the process to be possible?

Cutting parameters, part-fixturing-machine rigidity and damping, accuracy and flexibility of the part, are all unknowns.

See poster of the project (May 2013)

Optimization of the machining processes of graphite/epoxy composites and multilayer materials

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-413 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

The milling, drilling and routing optimization of graphite/epoxy composite and multilayer materials is addressed in this project. Optimal parameters (speed, feed and depth) and tooling (materials, geometry and coating) will be determined for specific machining operations to ensure quality of the mac...

Optimization of the machining processes of graphite/epoxy composites and multilayer materials

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-413 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

The milling, drilling and routing optimization of graphite/epoxy composite and multilayer materials is addressed in this project. Optimal parameters (speed, feed and depth) and tooling (materials, geometry and coating) will be determined for specific machining operations to ensure quality of the machined parts (dimensional, geometrical, surface finish and mechanical properties integrity), tool life and effective machining costs. The 5 axis machining of graphite/epoxy is also addressed with the same expected outcomes.

This project will investigate current practices in graphite/epoxy and multilayer material Al-Li/Ti/composite drilling, trimming and 5 axis milling, and propose proper cutter geometries and materials as well as optimal machining parameters related to these tools with respect to quality, productivity and cost. Orbital milling (drilling) will also be investigated to propose recommendations regarding its further utilization from the industrial partners.

The fixturing aspect, which is a major concern considering the small thicknesses of the parts and the machining forces involved need also to be investigated.

Automated Non Destructive Testing For the Aerospace Industry

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-418 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

The aim of this project is to demonstrate the reliability and repeatability of an automated non-destructive testing (NDT) system combining different probes. Information that could not be inferred separately from them is expected. A prototype will be built to evaluate the potential of this method.

Automated Non Destructive Testing For the Aerospace Industry

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-418 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

The aim of this project is to demonstrate the reliability and repeatability of an automated non-destructive testing (NDT) system combining different probes. Information that could not be inferred separately from them is expected. A prototype will be built to evaluate the potential of this method.

Water Erosion Resistant Coating

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-419 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

This project aims at understanding the water erosion of compressor blades in the turbine engines and developing cost effective water erosion resistant coatings. This will also include studying the effect of substrate condition such as microstructure and residual stress on water erosion.

Water Erosion Resistant Coating

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-419 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

This project aims at understanding the water erosion of compressor blades in the turbine engines and developing cost effective water erosion resistant coatings. This will also include studying the effect of substrate condition such as microstructure and residual stress on water erosion.

Geometric inspection of flexible parts without jig conformation

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-501 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

Le projet proposé a pour objectif de faciliter l'inspection dimensionnelle et géométriques des composantes flexibles à partir d'un nuage de points, et ce, sans recours à un gabarit de conformation. ...

Geometric inspection of flexible parts without jig conformation

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-501 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

Le projet proposé a pour objectif de faciliter l'inspection dimensionnelle et géométriques des composantes flexibles à partir d'un nuage de points, et ce, sans recours à un gabarit de conformation.

See poster of the project (May 2013)

Shot peening for fatigue life improvement of aerospace structures

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-508 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

This project aims at studying, in a first phase, both numerically and analytically the effects of the shot peening process on the fatigue life improvement and on forming on thin components. The findings of the analysis part will be validated against experimental data generated in the course of the p...

Shot peening for fatigue life improvement of aerospace structures

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-508 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

This project aims at studying, in a first phase, both numerically and analytically the effects of the shot peening process on the fatigue life improvement and on forming on thin components. The findings of the analysis part will be validated against experimental data generated in the course of the project.

Finally, optimization of the process will be attempted (fatigue life improvement and forming) and validated experimentally.

Machining effects on part integrity and life of aircraft materials

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-510 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

A better understanding of the relationship between machining parameters and surfaces characteristics and between surface charateristics and fatigue life will lead to the optimisation of machining pratices to improve the fatigue life of aerospace components. Research efforts will also be focus towar...

Machining effects on part integrity and life of aircraft materials

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-510 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

A better understanding of the relationship between machining parameters and surfaces characteristics and between surface charateristics and fatigue life will lead to the optimisation of machining pratices to improve the fatigue life of aerospace components.

Research efforts will also be focus toward the development of life prediction models that will eventually be used to identify the best machining pratice and to reduce the number of fatigue tests needed to substantiate new machining practices.

Additive Manufacturing Technologies for Aerospace Components

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-601 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

This project aims at generating fundamental knowledge on design, processing and properties, and initiate the development of guidelines and corresponding database of properties on additive manufacturing of Ti-6Al-4V and high strength aluminum alloys, to target fabrication of aerospace components.

Additive Manufacturing Technologies for Aerospace Components

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-601 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

This project aims at generating fundamental knowledge on design, processing and properties, and initiate the development of guidelines and corresponding database of properties on additive manufacturing of Ti-6Al-4V and high strength aluminum alloys, to target fabrication of aerospace components.

Accuracy Enhancements of Industrial Robots through Close-Range Photogrammetry

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-602 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

There is an increased demand for industrial robots with high absolute accuracy. Creaforms systems (C-Track, MaxSHOT , MetraSCAN) can be used to assess the accuracy of industrial robots, calibrate them, correct their path, or automate inspection processes. This project aims to improve the accuracy of...

Accuracy Enhancements of Industrial Robots through Close-Range Photogrammetry

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-602 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

There is an increased demand for industrial robots with high absolute accuracy. Creaforms systems (C-Track, MaxSHOT , MetraSCAN) can be used to assess the accuracy of industrial robots, calibrate them, correct their path, or automate inspection processes.
This project aims to improve the accuracy of industrial robots with the help of two Canadian-made 6D measurement devices. Namely, two commercial photogrammetry based systems manufactured by Creaform will be used in this project: the C-Track and the MaxSHOT 3D. Firstly, a special multifaceted artefact will be designed and fabricated, the pose of which can be measured with any of these two Creaform's 6D devices. Then, novel robot calibration techniques will be developed for the specific use with these two 6D devices. In parallel, an automated procedure will be developed for the dynamic robot pose correction of certain industrial robots with the help of a C-Track. Finally, a dedicated procedure will be developed for the geometry inspection of parts using a robot guided by a C-Track.

Additive Manufacturing

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-604_Plan C /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

This project aims to create an additive manufacturing capability that will be able to manufacture and NDI parts in process via different additive manufacturing approaches. The project also aims to manufacture parts of high integrity for primary and secondary structure. This process will need to ha...

Additive Manufacturing

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-604_Plan C /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

This project aims to create an additive manufacturing capability that will be able to manufacture and NDI parts in process via different additive manufacturing approaches. The project also aims to manufacture parts of high integrity for primary and secondary structure.

This process will need to have the capability to create parts via computer generated design packages as well as image capture of existing structure. The project will also need drive towards reducing the requirement of highly skilled labour processes with old documentation and manufacturing processes.

the project includes:

+ The manufacturing of metallic & polymeric components that are structurally useable for primary and secondary components

+ The ability to additive manufacture metallic layers on plastic substrates such as aluminium on nylon, etc.
+ Long term develop and certify the capability to create parts that are a hybrid of thermoset, thermoplastic, metallic base materials blended with re-enforcement of structural materials such as organic fibers (Carbon, Kevlar, Glass, etc.) and metallic (Aluminium, Titanium, Boron, etc.)

+ The evaluations of game changers applications enabled by additive manufacturing approach

Low CTE aluminum alloy for space HW material properties and processing

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-706_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project /Program: Maturing Technology

Satellite on-board antennas and payload RF components use extensively aluminum 6061 alloy, e.g. waveguides, filters, antenna feed chain components. Thermal control of highly dissipative units is a challenge in space, and aluminum CTE is a drawback, leading to higher mechanical stresses in assemblies...

Low CTE aluminum alloy for space HW material properties and processing

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-706_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project

Program: Maturing Technology

Satellite on-board antennas and payload RF components use extensively aluminum 6061 alloy, e.g. waveguides, filters, antenna feed chain components.
Thermal control of highly dissipative units is a challenge in space, and aluminum CTE is a drawback, leading to higher mechanical stresses in assemblies and modification of internal RF cavity dimensions (i.e. unstable electrical performances over temperature).
Al-Si alloy systems exhibit low CTE, low density and high strength properties.

Tha project objective is to evaluate existing Al-Si low CTE alloys in regards of the following objectives of research :

- Identify best processing and machining techniques for accurate parts,
- Characterize selected alloys mechanical and electrical properties, - Demonstrate compatibility with silver plating,
- Demonstrate the feasibility on a test case. A typical RF unit qualification program to be run on a unit built with low CTE alloy, e.g. microwave filter.

AAMI - Aerospace Additive Manufacturing Initiative

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-710_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project /Program: Maturing Technology

Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited and Pratt & Whitney Canada have all initiated research projects on Additive Manufacturing processes. Although applications are different, all companies are facing the same challenges including the lack of a mature Canadian supply chain. In order to acceler...

AAMI - Aerospace Additive Manufacturing Initiative

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-710_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project

Program: Maturing Technology

Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited and Pratt & Whitney Canada have all initiated research projects on Additive Manufacturing processes. Although applications are different, all companies are facing the same challenges including the lack of a mature Canadian supply chain.

In order to accelerate the maturation of this technology, we are proposing the first Canadian industry-led R&D program on additive manufacturing (AM). The purpose is to bring together the whole value chain (Certification authorities, OEMs, Suppliers, Universities & Research Centers) to collaborate on common tasks for the development of the capability to design, produce, inspect and certify parts using AM processes.

The end goal is to reach TRL/MRL 6 on selected parts for primary and secondary aircraft/helicopter structures as well as aircraft engines and pave the way for usage in the production of parts for repair, retrofit or new products development. Additive manufacturing is a new industrial domain, not a single technology, which is also particularly well aligned to new design approaches like topology optimization.

The expected benefits are: CO2 emissions reduction via weight reduction and cost reduction through part assemblies integration, lead time reduction, reduced buy-to-fly ratio, reduced inventory and optimized batch size.

Advanced thermal protection coatings

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-711 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

Thermal barrier coatings have been used in aircraft gas turbines since several decades. The initial deposition method of thermal barrier coatings (TBCs), i.e. air plasma spray (APS), is still being used today for producing TBCs made of yttria stabilized zirconia (YSZ). This project consists in explo...

Advanced thermal protection coatings

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-711 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

Thermal barrier coatings have been used in aircraft gas turbines since several decades. The initial deposition method of thermal barrier coatings (TBCs), i.e. air plasma spray (APS), is still being used today for producing TBCs made of yttria stabilized zirconia (YSZ). This project consists in exploring new deposition techniques and feed materials for the thermal protection of components exposed to high service temperatures. The main objective of the project is to reduce the thermal conductivity and increase the stability and resistance of TBCs as compared with the presently used ones, without affecting the other characteristics of the deposited coatings. The explored directions comprise assessing both new TBC materials compositions and microstructures in order to maximize the resulting benefits.

Thermal and surface treatments on parts Inconel 625® produced by Additive Manufacturing

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-721_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project /Program: Maturing Technology

FusiA Impression 3D métal Inc. et Pratt & Whitney Canada ont initié des projets de recherches sur de la fabrication additive de piéces pour le secteur aéronautiques. Ces projets ont permis de mettre en avant les capacités de cette technologie à garantir les re...

Thermal and surface treatments on parts Inconel 625® produced by Additive Manufacturing

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-721_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project

Program: Maturing Technology

FusiA Impression 3D métal Inc. et Pratt & Whitney Canada ont initié des projets de recherches sur de la fabrication additive de piéces pour le secteur aéronautiques. Ces projets ont permis de mettre en avant les capacités de cette technologie à garantir les requis dans le domaine aéronautique, notamment pour des systémes de propulsion. S’inscrivant dans la continuité de leurs projets précédents respectifs, FusiA Impression 3D métal Inc. et Pratt & Whitney Canada souhaitent désormais avancer encore plus loin dans l’intégration de la technologie en regardant les aspects de finition de ces piéces, notamment en ce qui concerne les traitements thermiques et surfaciques. L’objectif est d’étudier, de développer et de mettre en place les techniques et méthodes de traitements de surface et thermiques adaptés à la fabrication additive métallique, sur des cas concrets de piéces dans les environnements fortement contraints que sont les systémes de propulsion. Ce développement se fera en partenariat avec l’École de Technologie Supérieure et l’École Polytechnique qui possédent à elles deux de solides expertises dans l’analyse des matériaux, notamment métalliques, les traitements thermiques et de surface. Le but est d’atteindre le niveau TRL 6 en démontrant, sur les cas sélectionnés, la pertinence technique et économique des méthodes développées selon les standards requis par le domaine aéronautique.

Complex Integrated Composites Assemblies for Aero-Engine Shrouds

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-724_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project /Program: Maturing Technology

The main objective of this project is to attempt to reduce the weight and manufacturing costs of complex integrated assemblies, such as aero-engine shrouds, by replacing Aluminum with composite materials. The secondary objective is also to extend the state-of-the art on three selected manufacturing ...

Complex Integrated Composites Assemblies for Aero-Engine Shrouds

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-724_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project

Program: Maturing Technology

The main objective of this project is to attempt to reduce the weight and manufacturing costs of complex integrated assemblies, such as aero-engine shrouds, by replacing Aluminum with composite materials. The secondary objective is also to extend the state-of-the art on three selected manufacturing processes: Resin Transfer Moulding (RTM, Compression Moulding of Long Discontinuous Fibres (LDF) and Thermo-Forming. Currently, aero-engine shrouds are generally machined from one block of aluminum to create a geometrically complex component with a variety of airflow control functions. In order to reduce the part weight and its manufacturing costs while maintaining performance, it is proposed to replace this part with multiple composite material panels, bonded and bolted together to create a geometrically complex assembly, following the same functional and dimensional requirements of the existing aluminum part. In order to validate and manufacture the novel design, several composite material and manufacturing options will be investigated. Due to the assembly’s complexity, performance requirements, and the integration with other metallic components, manufacturing this part with composite materials is a significant technical and scientific challenge, and multiple materials and processes may be needed. Therefore, a partnership was established between P&WC, Dema Aeronautics, Hutchinson Aerospace Industry LTD, McGill University, and Concordia University, in order to study three main candidate manufacturing processes: Resin Transfer Moulding (RTM), compression moulding and Thermo-Forming. Dema Aeronautics has strong capability for the Thermo-Forming process and will provide technical advice and in-kind contribution to the project. Hutchinson has strong capability for the RTM process and will provide technical advice and in-kind contribution to the project. A variety of other processes will also be required to complete the assembly, such as joining and compression moulding of selected subcomponents. The McGill University Structures and Composite Materials Laboratory has extensive scientific knowledge of all three main processes, while Concordia University brings extensive expertise in cost modeling and testing to the project. Post-Graduate Students will also be involved in this project to assist in the process simulations, process development, and prototype testing.

Wingbox Multi-Disciplinary Optimization Platform

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: MDO-1601_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project /Program: Maturing Technology

Over the past 10 years, the commercial aircraft (<150 passengers) market has seen almost a tripling in the number of players while business aircraft manufacturers around the world have filled or narrowed segment gaps with clean sheet or major derivative products. In this new reality, product diff...

Wingbox Multi-Disciplinary Optimization Platform

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: MDO-1601_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project

Program: Maturing Technology

Over the past 10 years, the commercial aircraft (<150 passengers) market has seen almost a tripling in the number of players while business aircraft manufacturers around the world have filled or narrowed segment gaps with clean sheet or major derivative products. In this new reality, product differentiation is becoming extremely challenging and gaining a distinct advantage in aircraft performance, through weight in particular, is paramount. By targeting the multidisciplinary optimization of a major weight contributor – the wing box, up to 50% of the wing weight – the proposed CARIC project addresses the heart of the need.
Aircrafts are composed of highly complex systems and their design puts great strain on engineers’ creativity. Existing CAD systems can help them to a certain extent; but they remain passive tools relying mainly on the engineering designer’s knowledge. Therefore, new intelligent solutions that assist engineers using design automation are highly desirable. However, the inherent complexity of aircraft designs translates into high complexity in design automation models and hence lowers the performances of the solution-search algorithms. In order to achieve effective design automation at the conceptual design level, along with the synthesis strategies, the proper specific assumptions and simplifications need to be set.
The project aims to deliver an automated and collaborative set-up for wingbox structural definition in preliminary design, for either a metallic or a composite structure, using a best in class wing design (Bombardier Challenger 300) as a test case. This preliminary design phase, where the main parameters driving weight are set, requires several loops to define the best compromise at aircraft level. To achieve best performance, the project will not only address automation and optimization of such a process, but aims to improve the definition and usage of the simulation model at the core the key disciplines involved: the global finite element model of the entire aircraft. Besides the potential wingbox weight reduction targeted (5 to 10%), the approach is expected to minimize or avoid costly rework in late design stages, for a component that is seldom if ever redesigned in the life of an aircraft program.
Academic partners (École Polytechnique, Carleton University) will identify which simplifications can be performed without compromising the essence of the discipline and capture the key interactions. Stelia brings an important expertise in topological optimization, which has the potential to dramatically open up the typical design space, while Bombardier brings the aircraft OEM expertise across the spectrum of disciplines considered and lessons learned from recent and on-going aircraft development.
The strength of the proposal not only resides in the quality of the University-Industry team gathered to tackle this highly multidisciplinary engineering challenge, but also in the innovative and collaborative approach set to achieve ambitious results. Whereas traditionally, the preliminary wingbox design would be executed by an aircraft OEM, the solution resulting from this CARIC project will transform the task into a truly collaborative work between an aircraft OEM (Bombardier) and a major structure supplier (Stelia), thereby taking advantage of both players expertise to bring wingbox design optimization to another level.

Augmented reality immersive simulation for flight deck design and evaluation.

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: MDO-1649_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project /Program: Maturing Technology

This project aim is to develop a Flight Deck Human Machine Interface tools allowing specialists to design, develop, assess and operate user interfaces in an augmented reality immersive environment. The HMI tool should allow for evolution of the simulation fidelity throughout a flight deck developmen...

Augmented reality immersive simulation for flight deck design and evaluation.

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: MDO-1649_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project

Program: Maturing Technology

This project aim is to develop a Flight Deck Human Machine Interface tools allowing specialists to design, develop, assess and operate user interfaces in an augmented reality immersive environment. The HMI tool should allow for evolution of the simulation fidelity throughout a flight deck development project from conceptual to detailed design phases.  The virtual HMI tool must be more cost effective to build and operate compared to the Engineering mock-up and Full-Flight Simulator devices.  Other Engineering design and analysis applications may be evaluated using this tool such as Pilot-In-the-loop Aircraft performance studies in a virtual flight deck with the out of the view world environment.

Real-Time Operating System For Safety Critical Systems

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: MDO-1713_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project /Program: Maturing Technology

MANNARINO Systems & Software, Inc. (MANNARINO) will lead a team of industry professionals and university experts to develop a demonstrator of a RTCA/DO-178C Design Assurance Level A certifiable aerospace software product.  To develop the software demonstrator, professional working relati...

Real-Time Operating System For Safety Critical Systems

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: MDO-1713_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project

Program: Maturing Technology /Sub-program: PME Demonstrator

MANNARINO Systems & Software, Inc. (MANNARINO) will lead a team of industry professionals and university experts to develop a demonstrator of a RTCA/DO-178C Design Assurance Level A certifiable aerospace software product.  To develop the software demonstrator, professional working relationships will be created between the following entities:


MANNARINO Systems & Software, Inc
NordiaSoft
Polytechnique Montreal
Concordia University


MANNARINO will use its experience and expertise to develop a safety-critical software product that will fulfill the aerospace requirements for RTCA/DO-178C Design Assurance Level A software. NordiaSoft will contribute its experience and knowledge in the development and integration of tools required for software development. Concordia University and Polytechnique Montreal to study the use of Cybersecurity and Multi-core microprocessors in the Aerospace industry.  These are two topics that will be at the technical forefront of the Aerospace industry in the near future.

During the demonstrator development, MANNARINO will work with a global aerospace leader to integrate the software product onto an airborne control system hardware platform or avionics platform currently being developed. The project has the primary objective that by 2019, MANNARINO will have demonstrated its software technology to TRL-6 and integration onto the target hardware platform. The following technical challenges will be overcome to create an innovative technical product offering to the aerospace/military market.

Two large technological uncertainties facing the aerospace/military market today are cyber physical system security and use of multi-core processors.  The constant threat of cyber-attacks combined with the airframe users request to allow easier access to the aircraft physical systems (eg via wireless data download/upload) means that traditionally secure and secluded aircraft systems are now exposed to the vast and constant threat of cyber-attack. The market pressures to lower end-product pricing is forcing hardware manufactures toward low-cost commercially available multi-disciple, multi-core microprocessors and software in lieu of high-priced and highly tailored/complex microprocessors and software in use in many aircraft systems of today.  The highly integrated and complex design of multi-core microprocessors threatens the deterministic and reliable characteristics required for aerospace systems certification.

Modeling and Simulation of new Generation and Distribution System Architectures for more electrical Aircrafts (MEA) and Engines (MEE)

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: MDO-404_Plan C /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

Modeling and simulation of envisioned MEA electrical power architectures and components. Development and validation of a real-time/non-real-time simulation laboratory for the MEA and MEE concepts. Established methods will be used for the evaluation of operational requirements and research on optimiz...

Modeling and Simulation of new Generation and Distribution System Architectures for more electrical Aircrafts (MEA) and Engines (MEE)

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: MDO-404_Plan C /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

Modeling and simulation of envisioned MEA electrical power architectures and components. Development and validation of a real-time/non-real-time simulation laboratory for the MEA and MEE concepts. Established methods will be used for the evaluation of operational requirements and research on optimizations within economical and safety constraints.

Morphing architectures for aerodynamic performance improvement for a wing and aileron system and their validation using wind tunnel tests

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: MDO-505_INTL /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

A prototype system consisting of a wing and an aileron will be designed, fabricated and tested. This system will be morphed and controlled using various types of actuators and sensors with the aim to improve its aerodynamic performances. The numerical modeling and simulation results will be validate...

Morphing architectures for aerodynamic performance improvement for a wing and aileron system and their validation using wind tunnel tests

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: MDO-505_INTL /Status: Completed Project

International collaboration: Italy

Program: Exploring Technology /Sub-program: International

A prototype system consisting of a wing and an aileron will be designed, fabricated and tested. This system will be morphed and controlled using various types of actuators and sensors with the aim to improve its aerodynamic performances. The numerical modeling and simulation results will be validated with wind tunnel test data.

This international project will be realized by two teams in two countries: Canada and Italy. The Canadian team will work on the wing design, fabrication, control and testing, while the Italian team will mainly work on the aileron design, fabrication, control and testing. The Canadian and Italian teams will validate the closed loop control model of the morphing wing and aileron system at the IAR-NRC wind tunnel.

Multi-Fidelity Computational Fluid Dynamics for Aircraft Stability and Control

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: MDO-508_INTL /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

The project aims at enhancing aerodynamic simulations within the full flight enveloppe. Focus will be on predicting stability and control coefficients in low-speed (take-off/landing) and high speed (transonnic) conditions on complete aircraft configurations. The project will provide novel computati...

Multi-Fidelity Computational Fluid Dynamics for Aircraft Stability and Control

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: MDO-508_INTL /Status: Completed Project

International collaboration: Sweden

Program: Exploring Technology /Sub-program: International

The project aims at enhancing aerodynamic simulations within the full flight enveloppe. Focus will be on predicting stability and control coefficients in low-speed (take-off/landing) and high speed (transonnic) conditions on complete aircraft configurations.

The project will provide novel computationnal algorithms as well as novel modelling techniques, and is submitted concurrently with a european FP7 research project.

href="http://www.criaq.aero/media/articles/MDO-508_INTL.jpg" target="_blank" title="Link to poster">See poster of the project (May 2013)

Next-Generation of Massively Parallel High-Fidelity Computational Fluid Dynamics

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: MDO-710 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

For the past five years, massively parallel hardware architectures such as NVIDIA's general purpose graphical processing units (GPGPUs) and Intel's Xeon Phi accelerators have gained traction in the scientific and high performance computing (HPC) community due to the combination of their low ...

Next-Generation of Massively Parallel High-Fidelity Computational Fluid Dynamics

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: MDO-710 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

For the past five years, massively parallel hardware architectures such as NVIDIA's general purpose graphical processing units (GPGPUs) and Intel's Xeon Phi accelerators have gained traction in the scientific and high performance computing (HPC) community due to the combination of their low cost, high power efficiency and high computational throughput. Thanks to their parallel architecture, simpler processors and low clock frequencies, these accelerators consume less power per teraflops of computations, and their computational throughput is increasing at a greater rate than that of traditional CPUs.

The goal of this proposal is develop novel parallel algorithms and implement them into Bombardier's Full Aircraft Navier-Stokes Code (FANSC) analysis code to fully exploit the computational power of the next generation of massively parallel hardware architectures. Bombardier's objective is to upgrade the FANSC code to take advantage of these new hardware architectures. CRAY Inc. will benefit from having their in-house high-level programming architectures tested in an industrial setting, while Calcul Quebec will contribute to hardware and software expertise.

Flight Trajectory Optimization

Theme: AVIATION SERVICES AND OPERATIONS

Acronym: OPR-601 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

More effective flight management Fuel savings Tradeoff time-fuel cost Greener trajectory management Objectives: + Flight-plan optimization; + Optimized en route flight-plan updates; + Air traffic management with costs minimization.

Flight Trajectory Optimization

Theme: AVIATION SERVICES AND OPERATIONS

Acronym: OPR-601 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

More effective flight management
Fuel savings
Tradeoff time-fuel cost
Greener trajectory management

Objectives:

+ Flight-plan optimization;

+ Optimized en route flight-plan updates;

+ Air traffic management with costs minimization.

CREER-Collaboration for Research Equipment and ExpeRtise

Theme: AVIATION SERVICES AND OPERATIONS

Acronym: OPR-608_Plan C /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

Perform a one-year feasibility study based on the development and implementation of a technological platform in order to share research equipment aimed at optimizing their utilisation and enhancing the value of its related expertise through the field-testing of prototype demonstrators.

CREER-Collaboration for Research Equipment and ExpeRtise

Theme: AVIATION SERVICES AND OPERATIONS

Acronym: OPR-608_Plan C /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

Perform a one-year feasibility study based on the development and implementation of a technological platform in order to share research equipment aimed at optimizing their utilisation and enhancing the value of its related expertise through the field-testing of prototype demonstrators.

Collaborative Development for Product Life Cycle Management

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: PLM-2 /Status: Completed Project /Program: Exploring Technology

Given a global environment where partners, suppliers and affiliates have different capabilities with respect to project and product data management, different environments for regulations with respect to protection of intellectual property (IP) and technology export, and different levels of informat...

Collaborative Development for Product Life Cycle Management

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: PLM-2 /Status: Completed Project

Program: Exploring Technology

Given a global environment where partners, suppliers and affiliates have different capabilities with respect to project and product data management, different environments for regulations with respect to protection of intellectual property (IP) and technology export, and different levels of information technology skills.

See poster of the project (May 2013)

Automated Visual Inspection, Sentencing & Dressing for Aerospace Components

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-1712_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project /Program: Maturing Technology

Within the aerospace sector, aftermarket services account for over 50% of revenue generated by aero engine manufacturers. Central to this is the ability to inspect and repair high unit cost components. Many processes are manual but given the ever-increasing quality, cost and delivery requirements, a...

Automated Visual Inspection, Sentencing & Dressing for Aerospace Components

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-1712_TRL4+ /Status: Completed Project

Program: Maturing Technology /Sub-program: PME Demonstrator

Within the aerospace sector, aftermarket services account for over 50% of revenue generated by aero engine manufacturers. Central to this is the ability to inspect and repair high unit cost components. Many processes are manual but given the ever-increasing quality, cost and delivery requirements, and the safety critical nature of these rotating parts, there is a strong drive towards process automation. The objective of this project is therefore to productionise and validate the automation of inspection, sentencing and removal of defects present on service-run components such as gas turbine discs, shafts, blisks and fan blades. The automation of each aspect of the process will need to be capable of being applied to complex geometries and accommodate component and feature variation resulting from service operation. As this capability only exists in a proof of concept state, a project consortium has been assembled to develop this technology over a period of three years. Bringing it’s numerous years of knowledge in both automated visual inspection and robotic finishing, AV&R will lead this project to success with the contribution of strong partners into their field of excellence. For its strong knowledge into lean manufacturing for engine maintenance, it’s desire to lead introduction of new technologies for the whole Rolls-Royce network and its center of excellence for fan blades reparation, Rolls-Royce Canada is the pefect OEM partner. For their development over the past 15+years on OCT technologies, the NRC at Boucherville is key to one of the biggest challenges for the inspection. Complementary to the data generated in 3D, Université Laval will provide strong technical knowledge to execute the proper software manipulations to extract the defect and its characteristics. Finally, Polytechnique Montréal will provide an insight into Industrial engineering to work on workflow optimization, system uncertainty and human factors. Each of the partners are expected to be advantageous to the project because of their reputations preceeding them. For AV&R, the potential for future system deployment is huge through Rolls-Royce sites and joint ventures. It will also be possible to offer the solution to other aerospace clients. The technological impact will go beyond the current project and allow AV&R to provide it’s clients solutions for more complex polishing and deburring applications.

The St Bernard Search and Rescue UAV

Theme: UAVs AND AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES

Acronym: AUT-1710_INTL /Status: Project in progress /Program: Maturing Technology

While drone technologies currently are a very fast-growing market, recent incidents, including mid-air collision with aircraft and obvious risks for people and property when out of control, forced the government of Canada to adopt strong measures to ground all Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) of more...

The St Bernard Search and Rescue UAV

Theme: UAVs AND AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES

Acronym: AUT-1710_INTL /Status: Project in progress

International collaboration: Germany

Program: Maturing Technology /Sub-program: International

While drone technologies currently are a very fast-growing market, recent incidents, including mid-air collision with aircraft and obvious risks for people and property when out of control, forced the government of Canada to adopt strong measures to ground all Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) of more than 250 grams. A Special Flight Operations Certificate is now required for every commercial operation to protect people, privacy and property.

With this in mind, SII Canada and VOZWIN have decided to propose “The St Bernard Search and Rescue UAV”, with reference to St Bernard dogs in the Swiss Alps. As mountains usually are sparsely populated, flying a UAV over mountainous regions would carry very little risk for people and property. Although some solutions already exist, a semi-autonomous UAV seems to be a better alternative for an immediate, low-cost and low-risk search operation over a known resort domain. Semi-autonomy means that the UAV would be able to compute its own paths with an operator in the loop.

This research project will lead to the delivery of a prototype that will be able to screen a mountainous area for distressed persons and send their localization to a ground station for rescue. Preventive screening at low altitude with a computed optimized pattern will allow the UAV to detect human presence over a pre-defined area; it may be used for an end-of-day sweep. On the other hand, whenever an avalanche alert or a distressed person alert is raised, the UAV will be able to immediately reach out to a designated point and screen for human presence there while gradually increasing the search area around the point.

Human presence will be detected through several means: visible and infrared imaging, a Recco tag in clothes, an Internet-connected object or a GSM signal, thus needing data fusion. In addition to human presence, imaging will allow to identify human distress with artificial intelligence. Other features include high endurance with energy management, smart collision avoidance, flight in extreme weather conditions and live monitoring of the UAV’s flight parameters and environment and control though the ground station.
 

Unmanned aircraft system for maritime surveillance

Theme: UAVs AND AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES

Acronym: UAS MaSu /Status: Project in progress /Program: Maturing Technology

The CRIAQ UAS MaSu project is mobilizing two Canadian SMEs supported by two universities specialized in engineering, the Université de Sherbrooke and the École de technologie supérieure, to develop several concepts and technologies in the field of maritime drones. The partner...

Unmanned aircraft system for maritime surveillance

Theme: UAVs AND AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES

Acronym: UAS MaSu /Status: Project in progress

Program: Maturing Technology

The CRIAQ UAS MaSu project is mobilizing two Canadian SMEs supported by two universities specialized in engineering, the Université de Sherbrooke and the École de technologie supérieure, to develop several concepts and technologies in the field of maritime drones. The partners will demonstrate at the end of the project an unmanned system capable of landing on a moving platform representing the ship's deck.

Located in Saint-Joseph-de-Coleraine, Quebec, LAFLAMME AÉRO will demonstrate the expertise and technologies of the young aerospace company by proposing a maritime version of its helicopter developed as part of the CARIC AUT-703 project. incorporating a certified heavy fuel engine and several other technologies needed for offshore operations.

The N.G.C. AÉROSPATIALE de Sherbrooke, which specializes in the design and deployment of intelligent software for space, aeronautical and terrestrial systems, will use its expertise and technologies by developing and integrating an advanced autopilot system adapted to tandem helicopters as well as as its own high-fidelity simulation environment.

Two university teams will be involved in the project. The expertise of Professor David Rancourt's team at the Université de Sherbrooke will enable the development of a reliable and versatile digital model of the helicopter that will be developed to optimize the performance of the aircraft and the high-altitude simulator. loyalty. For its part, the expertise of Professor René Jr Landry of the École de technologie supérieure will be used to select, qualify and develop the right communications systems and the correct guidance sensors required for maritime operations.

These four partners therefore want to use a program offered by CRIAQ to develop technologies and a robust and resilient unmanned system capable of performing difficult operations such as maritime surveillance. This project will diversify, develop and improve the expertise of partner companies. This project is also an opportunity to build a strong partnership between the two industrial partners and the two universities in the aeronautics sector, an initiative that could lead in the short and medium term to substantial business opportunities. Finally, the UAS MaSu project will also allow the development and validation of high-tech products that can then be marketed in the rapidly growing maritime drone market. This project will therefore be a lever that will result in the maintenance and creation of dozens of aerospace jobs in Canada's small and medium-sized enterprises in the high-tech sector.

Industrial-grade Verification & Validation of Evolving Systems - Canadian cluster

Theme: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE & DATA VALORIZATION

Acronym: IVVES /Status: Project in progress /Program: Exploring Technology

Evolving systems (ES) form a new class of systems that can rapidly change their behavior, due to fast iteration cycles in development and/or to their ability to self-adapt and learn; they can include ML-enabled components. Canadian services and industries have been deploying ES for non-critical doma...

Industrial-grade Verification & Validation of Evolving Systems - Canadian cluster

Theme: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE & DATA VALORIZATION

Acronym: IVVES /Status: Project in progress

International collaboration: Europe

Program: Exploring Technology /Sub-program: International

Evolving systems (ES) form a new class of systems that can rapidly change their behavior, due to fast iteration cycles in development and/or to their ability to self-adapt and learn; they can include ML-enabled components. Canadian services and industries have been deploying ES for non-critical domains and already plan the roll-out of ES in critical domains such as Aerospace, Cybersecurity, Automotive & Transportation, Banking & Finance, Business and Data analytics. Industrial-grade testing and verification (T&V) approaches for a comprehensive and thorough quality assurance of ES are needed by the industry and for our safety.  CRIM, a Canadian research organisation, and three Canadian industrial organisations teamed up over 40 organisations from 6 European countries to fulfil the industrial needs within the context of the project IVVES (Industrial-graded Verification and Validation of Evolving Systems). IVVES has been approved by ITEA that is a cluster of EUREKA. The Canadian cluster (IVVES-CC) will develop testing and verification approaches that will contribute to enhance our confidence in ES; it will also train HQP and engineers to master and apply these approaches for better Canadian services and industries. The project lasts for three years starting from January 2020 and is supported by CRIAQ and potentially by NSERC.

Human Pilot Model Development

Theme: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE & DATA VALORIZATION

Acronym: Pilot-AI /Status: Project in progress /Program: Exploring Technology

The objective is to increase the complexity of the BA pilot models for desktop handling quality assessments to: •Model nonlinear pilot behaviour for situations where pilots tend to over-command the aircraft •Model pilot behaviour under various circumstances such critical...

Human Pilot Model Development

Theme: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE & DATA VALORIZATION

Acronym: Pilot-AI /Status: Project in progress

Program: Exploring Technology

The objective is to increase the complexity of the BA pilot models for desktop handling quality assessments to:

•Model nonlinear pilot behaviour for situations where pilots tend to over-command the aircraft

•Model pilot behaviour under various circumstances such critical failures situations that would trigger a nervous pilot response

Cyber Security for Aviation

Theme: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE & DATA VALORIZATION

Acronym: CyberSA /Status: Project in progress /Program: Exploring Technology

The aim of this collaborative R&D project is to provide new generation of innovative and advanced cyber security and cyber defense measures for aircraft. The research work will lean heavily on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools such as knowledge representation techniques and machine l...

Cyber Security for Aviation

Theme: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE & DATA VALORIZATION

Acronym: CyberSA /Status: Project in progress

Program: Exploring Technology

The aim of this collaborative R&D project is to provide new generation of innovative and advanced cyber security and cyber defense measures for aircraft. The research work will lean heavily on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools such as knowledge representation techniques and machine learning
approaches to address the security of current and future aircraft system architecture, and ensure the continued airworthiness of the aircraft while accounting for new and evolving cyber threats. The cyber security research team will be led by Polytechnique Montreal and will involve members from the National Research Council (NRC). The industrial collaborators team involves various cross‐sectoral members from the aerospace industry (Bombardier and Collins Aerospace) and from the cyber security industry (RHEA Group, Carillon and QoHash).

Diagnostic, Prognostic and Health Monitoring of Aircraft Flight Control System

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: DPHM-1711_TRL4+ /Status: Project in progress /Program: Maturing Technology

While aircraft manufacturers are looking for highly reliable equipment, degradations due to wear and tear and consequent faults/failures are inevitable. Thus, aircraft owners and operators want to detect and isolate/localize these degradations to replace the faulty unit as early as required. This is...

Diagnostic, Prognostic and Health Monitoring of Aircraft Flight Control System

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: DPHM-1711_TRL4+ /Status: Project in progress

Program: Maturing Technology /Sub-program: PME Demonstrator

While aircraft manufacturers are looking for highly reliable equipment, degradations due to wear and tear and consequent faults/failures are inevitable. Thus, aircraft owners and operators want to detect and isolate/localize these degradations to replace the faulty unit as early as required. This is in line with the evolution from time-based to condition-based maintenance (CBM). Optimized CBM also requires the capability to estimate remaining-useful- life (RUL) of components and predict time-to failure (TTF). Advanced Diagnostic, Prognostic and Health Monitoring (DPHM) is the technology required to address these emerging needs.
DPHM has two capabilities:
(1) DHM that is concerned with early detection, isolation and severity estimation of degradations preferably in real-time.
(2) Prognostic, which predicts system’s future health (i.e. RUL and TTF) given its current health state.

In a previous CARIC/CRIAQ project, DPHM-702-TRL4+, GlobVision, in collaboration with Thales Avionics Canada and Concordia University developed advanced DPHM solutions for electrohydraulic Multi-Function Spoilers (MFS), which are secondary flight control actuators. The real-time DHM of MFS was demonstrated at TRL5 and Prognostic at TRL3. DPHM-702-TRL4+ was a huge success that built the foundations for this project, where we seek to:
(a) Develop advanced DPHM technology for the entire FCS servo-actuation loops including, in addition to MFS, electrohydraulic primary actuators and electromechanical horizontal stabilizer trim actuators (HSTA); and
(b) Build a TRL6 technology demonstrator for FCS DPHM by developing a processor-in-the-loop (PIL) high-fidelity flight control system (FCS) simulator acting as a surrogate of the actual aircraft and using Monte-Carlo simulations.

Upon achieving the above objectives, FCS DPHM technology will be ready to be deployed for aircrafts during flight.

Battery module with battery management (BMS) and intelligent thermal management (TMS) for aerospace applications

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: iNORTH /Status: Project in progress /Program: Exploring Technology

Batteries have been used in electric and hybrid electric vehicles for more than a decade, and worldwide utilization is increasing, including the aerospace sector.  Lithium-ion batteries are temperature-sensitive device, which adds a challenge for year-long operation in Canadian weather especial...

Battery module with battery management (BMS) and intelligent thermal management (TMS) for aerospace applications

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: iNORTH /Status: Project in progress

Program: Exploring Technology

Batteries have been used in electric and hybrid electric vehicles for more than a decade, and worldwide utilization is increasing, including the aerospace sector.  Lithium-ion batteries are temperature-sensitive device, which adds a challenge for year-long operation in Canadian weather especially for the aerospace sector with stringent requirements. Low temperature operation reduces the battery capacity and induce premature aging. High temperature operation creates a risk of thermal runaway and permanent failure. An improvement in both thermal monitoring and thermal management is required. The partnership between Calogy, TriStar Multicopters, UdeS (2 professors) and ETS (2 professors) is ideal to support the development, and in the future commercialize this next generation of battery. Calogy owns a unique thermal ground plane (TGP) technology to actively control the thermal conductivity within the battery pack and with the environment. ETS’ researchers will develop arrays of printed thermal sensors on the TGP to enhance the thermal monitoring. Finally, Sherbrooke’s researchers will optimize the battery pack and use artificial intelligence algorithm on the large data set to identify potential failures in operation. TriStar’ small-scale drone for cold climate using lithium-ion battery will serve as a perfect test case for the technology. This new battery packaging will demonstrate both an improved performance at cold temperature and improved aging characteristics over the aircraft lifetime.

Enhanced Airfoil Performance Monitor

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: EAPM /Status: Project in progress /Program: Maturing Technology

Building upon Marinvent feasibility study that was conducted under an NRC-IRAP project and NSERC-ENGAGE grant with Nergica in the summer of 2019, the proposed project will seek to make adaptations to the current aerospace-optimized (Airfoil Performance Monitor) system for specific use on wind turbin...

Enhanced Airfoil Performance Monitor

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: EAPM /Status: Project in progress

Program: Maturing Technology

Building upon Marinvent feasibility study that was conducted under an NRC-IRAP project and NSERC-ENGAGE grant with Nergica in the summer of 2019, the proposed project will seek to make adaptations to the current aerospace-optimized (Airfoil Performance Monitor) system for specific use on wind turbines. This project will be conducted in partnership with Nergica and BI Expertise, using our combined expertise and experience to redesign, install and test the system on a representative wind turbine throughout multiple seasons to objectively prove its viability, performance and to quantify the financial benefits of the sensor for future commercial exploitation. The resultant new system will be known as Enhanced Airfoil Performance Monitor (EAPM);The resultant EAPM system is intended to represent an airflow monitoring technology that accurately assesses the stress on a wind turbine blade by measuring the airflow turbulence intensity at several different points on each blade. The turbulence intensity directly correlates to the lifting performance of the blade allowing turbine optimization under all conditions, including ice and contamination build up and adverse weather. This can be applicable on rotorcraft for blade contamination detection and stall monitoring. Also, similarly to wind mills and rotorcrafts, unmanned vehicles use low Reynolds number airfoil and could benefit the adaptation of APM for icing and stall detection as well. Nergica, Wind Energy experts and operators of the wind turbine test facility in Gaspe bring extensive expertise in testing, data collection, and SCADA integration. BI Expertise are experts in deployable Artificial Intelligence solutions and will be developing the algorithms necessary to parse and post-process the large volume of EAPM data gathered. Marinvent, owners and developers of the APM and EAPM technologies and experts in aerodynamic analysis of airfoils will run the project and will develop and market the final EAPM system.

Real-Time Operating System and Board Support Package For Safety Critical Systems

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: MCPC /Status: Project in progress /Program: Maturing Technology

MANNARINO Systems & Software, Inc. (MANNARINO) will continue to lead a team of industry professionals and academic experts in the development of its first real-time operating system software (RTOS) certified to ARINC 653 compliant and RTCA / DO-178C, called the M-RTOS. Currently, no Canadian-mad...

Real-Time Operating System and Board Support Package For Safety Critical Systems

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: MCPC /Status: Project in progress

Program: Maturing Technology

MANNARINO Systems & Software, Inc. (MANNARINO) will continue to lead a team of industry professionals and academic experts in the development of its first real-time operating system software (RTOS) certified to ARINC 653 compliant and RTCA / DO-178C, called the M-RTOS. Currently, no Canadian-made RTOS is fully compliant with ARINC 653. With the introduction of M-RTOS, a technologically innovative "Made in Canada / Made in Canada" RTOS option will be available to all aircraft system manufacturers in Canada and around the world. MANNARINO will also develop a Board Support Package (BSP) that integrates with ARINC 653-compliant RTOS software. To certify any ARINC653-compliant RTOS system, integrated BSP software meets the A-level objectives of the ARINC 653 RTOS. RTCA / DO-178C design will be required. MANNARINO BSP complements MANNARINO RTOS (M-RTOS), MANNARINO's design approval body (OAC) and MANNARINO's existing software development expertise. This range of products and services will make MANNARINO the only Quebec-based window that can satisfy manufacturers of Canadian and global aerospace systems with critical aerospace software requirements.

New prototype software tool to optimize aerospace design assurance space

Theme: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE & DATA VALORIZATION

Acronym: ATLAS-SYNTHESIS /Status: Project in progress /Program: Maturing Technology

With the rapid emergence of the Autonomous Systems and Advanced Air Mobility sector, many companies are entering the aerospace domain with new products and technologies and have limited experience with the processes and rigor that govern safety critical software and hardware development. These vehic...

New prototype software tool to optimize aerospace design assurance space

Theme: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE & DATA VALORIZATION

Acronym: ATLAS-SYNTHESIS /Status: Project in progress

Program: Maturing Technology

With the rapid emergence of the Autonomous Systems and Advanced Air Mobility sector, many companies are entering the aerospace domain with new products and technologies and have limited experience with the processes and rigor that govern safety critical software and hardware development. These vehicles and systems are becoming increasingly software driven and complex, making certification of such systems more critical. These two factors, along with the increasing needs of cyber security create a demand for software tools that help to guide and de-risk such technology developments. This project aims to create a new software tool prototype, targeted at optimizing the extremely important aerospace design assurance space, encompassing RTCA DO-178 (airborne software),DO-254 (airborne complex hardware) and DO-326A (cyber security) design assurance guidance as it applies to traditional aircraft, Autonomous Systems and Advanced Air Mobility. The tool prototype created will leverage software learning techniques and digital project history to create a number of optimization opportunities that will be targeted at helping users reduce project cost, risk and schedule. The objective in the longer term is to create a new breed of tool that is ideally suited to the demonstration of compliance on the ever-increasing portion of aerospace projects that contain electronics and software. Further, the tool will be equally applicable to other cyber security compliance programs and to other industries that have similar, externally mandated safety certification requirements (EN50128, ISO 26262, IEC61508…).

Creation of demonstrating strategies of hybrid conception and manufacturing for aerospace tooling

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: MANU-1707_TRL4+ /Status: Project in progress /Program: Maturing Technology

The manufacturing of aerospace parts presents several important challenges, including time and cost of production. In the economic context of today `doing well the first time 'is imperative to maintain the competitiveness of companies in the sector. The search for efficiency is today fueled by v...

Creation of demonstrating strategies of hybrid conception and manufacturing for aerospace tooling

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: MANU-1707_TRL4+ /Status: Project in progress

Program: Maturing Technology /Sub-program: PME Demonstrator

The manufacturing of aerospace parts presents several important challenges, including time and cost of production. In the economic context of today `doing well the first time 'is imperative to maintain the competitiveness of companies in the sector. The search for efficiency is today fueled by various opportunities from emerging technologies such as 3D metrology and additive manufacturing (AF), which offer a multitude of possibilities with significant potential. As an example, the AF allows the creation of complex geometry parts and multiple functions that are not feasible by traditional methods. That said, although these new technologies make it possible to envisage a revolution in the manufacturing process of aerospace parts, they are not applicable in all circumstances. Indeed, the criterion of profitability remains essential to the implementation of any new technology. As a result, several studies are underway to consider hybrid processes that combine the so-called conventional technologies with the new ones in order to obtain competitive solutions that respect the quality criteria and the standards imposed by the clients. More specifically, this project will focus on the design and manufacture of the tools used for the manufacture of aeronautical components (eg positioning template for machining, drilling template, etc.).  

Considering that any activity other than that leading to the creation of production parts does not represent a real added value to the overall process, it can be seen that the design and manufacture of manufacturing tools can be regarded as a 'badly needed'. Nevertheless, this activity has a significant importance on the challenges mentioned. As an indication, it is very common for tools to represent several tens of thousands of dollars and generate delays of the order of 60 days and more depending on the case. The purpose of the proposed project is to consider this activity differently. In other words, how can the design and manufacture of tooling be adapted to take advantage of the technological potential offered by the FA, 3D metrology and new manufacturing processes in general? Although the introduction of these new options offers concrete alternatives of manufacturing improvement, it is also necessary to consider the constraints and challenges associated with this assumption. To name just a few, the size of the parts that can be produced, as well as the homogeneity, cost and environmental sensitivity of the materials used in the FA, the modularity of the tools, the determination of dimensional requirements, Identification of the capabilities of a numerically controlled machine-tool-tool assembly, etc.  

As a premise of the project presented in this proposal, the team identified categories of tools with significant potential for improvement in order to secure a realistic potential for the creation of competitive advantages through the creation of design strategies, Based on hybrid technologies. These strategies will then be applicable in order to extend their impact on the overall practices of the manufacturing companies involved. After an exhaustive inventory of the state of the art, the approach chosen is to value and combine the new manufacturing technologies within the tried and true strategies by rethinking the creative approach and, in an ideal world, to replace certain technologies Tools or certain internal practices. This vision makes it possible to envisage that the strategies generated are applicable and profitable under the conditions of the market. In addition, we argue that the use of existing technologies and materials (high TRL) will significantly reduce the time required for the industrialization phase. The innovation targeted by this project is based on several interesting advances made in the last decade in terms of materials and the diversity of families of available technologies. Our team has a solid experience in the aerospace parts manufacturing environment as it integrates all the typical players in the supply chain. The project we propose will enable us to implement several innovative strategies in a highly industrialized demonstration (preliminary) form. Implementing a synergy in the supply chain involved through the implementation of a joint design-manufacturing process as well as a better understanding of the financial factors will only increase the success rate of the Group in commercial proposals to the prime contractors. The harmonization of best industrial practices with the advances proposed by the technologies (FA, CNN, 3D metrology) offers the group the opportunity to develop reflexes of tailored adaptations to the various technical problems presented, which translates into a pragmatic enhancement of Local technical competitiveness. Finally, the "Industry-Academy" matching in this representative industry environment will enhance the quality of the learning and publications produced by the researchers, students and trainees involved.

Additive Manufacturing of Aerospace Components - II

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-1708 /Status: Project in progress /Program: Exploring Technology

Additive Manufacturing (AM) refers to an emerging class of technologies that build 3D objects by the controlled addition of materials in a layer-by-layer fashion to produce objects at or near their final shape. Design limitations from subtracting processes are significantly reduced and parts with a ...

Additive Manufacturing of Aerospace Components - II

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-1708 /Status: Project in progress

Program: Exploring Technology

Additive Manufacturing (AM) refers to an emerging class of technologies that build 3D objects by the controlled addition of materials in a layer-by-layer fashion to produce objects at or near their final shape. Design limitations from subtracting processes are significantly reduced and parts with a higher degree of complexity now become possible. This disruptive technology is forecasted to have a Canadian market for AM products reaching ~$14B/year by 2025 , market to be significant in the aerospace and biomedical industry, where a series of examples are emerging: commercially used GE LEAP fuel nozzle, Boeing optimised structural brackets, etc.

Novel Quantitive Non destructive Quality Evaluation of Advance Joining and Consolidation Manufacturing Processes

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: IDIR /Status: Project in progress /Program: Exploring Technology

The overall goal of the proposed project is the development of ultrasonic nondestructive testing methodology and portable systems for material joints quality characterization and in-process monitoring based on new approaches, and the application of new generation of NDE systems to two types of mater...

Novel Quantitive Non destructive Quality Evaluation of Advance Joining and Consolidation Manufacturing Processes

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: IDIR /Status: Project in progress

Program: Exploring Technology

The overall goal of the proposed project is the development of ultrasonic nondestructive testing methodology and portable systems for material joints quality characterization and in-process monitoring based on new approaches, and the application of new generation of NDE systems to two types of material  bonded structures:
(i) Resistance Spot Weld (RSW) formed joints of steel, aluminum and dissimilar metals, and 
(ii) Low Pressure Cold Spray (LPCS)-formed structures: metal-matrix composite coating/substrate. 
 

Artificial Intelligence Enabled Highly Adaptive Robots for Aerospace Industry 4.0

Theme: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE & DATA VALORIZATION

Acronym: AIARA /Status: Project in progress /Program: Maturing Technology

A slow production rate, rapid growth of air transportation and enormous backlog of new aircraft orders make the aerospace industry linger on traditional practices and prevents it from moving fast enough to adopt more efficient aircraft designs and advanced materials. An increased level of automation...

Artificial Intelligence Enabled Highly Adaptive Robots for Aerospace Industry 4.0

Theme: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE & DATA VALORIZATION

Acronym: AIARA /Status: Project in progress

International collaboration: Germany

Program: Maturing Technology /Sub-program: International

A slow production rate, rapid growth of air transportation and enormous backlog of new aircraft orders make the aerospace industry linger on traditional practices and prevents it from moving fast enough to adopt more efficient aircraft designs and advanced materials. An increased level of automation via the use of robots both in manufacturing new aircrafts and maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) of existing fleet is considered to be a possible solution for not only cost reduction but also improved quality and safety in the aerospace industry. However, traditional industrial robots used in assembly lines of automotive industry and electronic devices is inadequate for the aerospace industry, because of small batch sizes, large components, diversity of products and a high level of complexity and variation in operations. Thus, the current practice of programming or teaching a robot for every specific task is limited, if not futile, in the aerospace industry. In Industry 4.0, robots are intelligent, highly adaptive and can be trained through machine learning to handle different equipment, tools, products and materials without a need for explicit programming. However, machine learning requires a large volume of data for capturing all possible physical experiences to train the robot, which can be too expensive or unavailable. Recent advances in robotics demonstrate the feasibility of learning from synthetic robot experiences and simulations. In the proposed project, we aim to develop a methodology to use learning results from simulation and virtual environments to train real robots for a wide range of aerospace manufacturing processes and MRO operations. We will evaluate and demonstrate the feasibility of this approach using four benchmarking use cases including a draping robot for composites manufacturing, a multi-arm robot for handling of flexible material in composites manufacturing, and an adaptive robot capable of handling both avionics monitoring instruments and totally different tools for swaging collars. This research partnership brings together the UBC, Element AI and Kinova Inc. from Canada and German Aerospace Center (DLR), Broetje, Fraunhofer IPT and ZAL from Germany to offer a more productive path for the aerospace industry under Industry 4.0.

Advanced Processing of MCrAIY Coatings

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: APMC /Status: Project in progress /Program: Exploring Technology

New generations of gas turbine engines are striving to increase their operating temperature to yield greater energy efficiency in the engine cycle. Consequently, improved high performance thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) must be used to protect metallic components exposed to these high temperatures. ...

Advanced Processing of MCrAIY Coatings

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: APMC /Status: Project in progress

Program: Exploring Technology

New generations of gas turbine engines are striving to increase their operating temperature to yield greater energy efficiency in the engine cycle. Consequently, improved high performance thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) must be used to protect metallic components exposed to these high temperatures. These coatings consist of a thermally insulating ceramic layer deposited on a metal bond layer (bondcoat). This rough bondcoat has two essential roles: it increases the adhesion between the insulating ceramic layer and the parts to be protected while providing protection against oxidation occurring at high temperature. This project aims to develop an improved bondcoat layer to increase the performance and durability of thermal barrier coatings while reducing the manufacturing costs.
In this project, we will take advantage of the unique characteristics of the HVAF deposition process to optimize the structure and roughness of the bondcoat layers while optimizing their resistance to oxidation. The HVAF (High-Velocity Air-Fuel) process is a thermal spray process for metallic powders which enables efficient deposition of dense and weakly oxidized coatings without the need for expensive vacuum systems. One of the important challenges of the project is to establish whether it is possible to produce dense layers while sufficiently limiting the reaction of the powders in air to avoid the formation of detrimental phases in the deposits. The proposed research strategy is divided into three stages. The first combines computer fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling with improved diagnostic methods to optimize and control of the HVAF process. The second step deals with the ultrafine microstructure characterization of the deposited bondcoat layers using a complete set of advanced electron microscopy techniques. In a third step, the oxidation resistance and the durability of the deposited coatings are optimized by varying the deposition parameters of the HVAF process and the properties and composition of the starting metal powders.
Optimized coatings have the potential to improve engine fuel efficiency, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and reduce engine manufacturing and maintenance costs

Electromagnetic and circuit simulation models for aircraft electrical wiring

Theme: AVIATION SERVICES AND OPERATIONS

Acronym: WE ESM /Status: Project in progress /Program: Exploring Technology

On a More Electric Aircraft, many large Variable Frequency Drives are used. Voltage rise times cause reflective wave issues and EMI issues due to high frequency switching and could also cause corona discharges. Project Objective: - Develop wiring electrical and finite element simu...

Electromagnetic and circuit simulation models for aircraft electrical wiring

Theme: AVIATION SERVICES AND OPERATIONS

Acronym: WE ESM /Status: Project in progress

Program: Exploring Technology

On a More Electric Aircraft, many large Variable Frequency Drives are used. Voltage rise times cause reflective wave issues and EMI issues due to high frequency switching and could also cause corona discharges.

Project Objective:
- Develop wiring electrical and finite element simulation models for different wire configurations.
- Perform analysis, for different non-linear loads generating high frequency current pulses, to understand the losses, the generated electromagnetic interference and the risks of corona discharges.

Evaluate and Improve Student Trainee Performance Using Biometrics

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: OPR-1618 /Status: Project in progress /Program: Exploring Technology

Flight safety requires effective pilot training, which aims to equip pilot trainees with the capabilities to make correct decisions in different flight scenarios. The effectiveness of pilot training depends largely on an instructor's ability to maintain a detailed awareness of the training si...

Evaluate and Improve Student Trainee Performance Using Biometrics

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: OPR-1618 /Status: Project in progress

Program: Exploring Technology

Flight safety requires effective pilot training, which aims to equip pilot trainees with the capabilities to make correct decisions in different flight scenarios. The effectiveness of pilot training depends largely on an instructor's ability to maintain a detailed awareness of the training situation. Armed with this information, instructors can adapt a student's training to his/her specific needs in order to maximize the training benefits. This awareness relies on the quantification of pilot trainee's cognitive (thinking) and affective (emotion/feeling) states in relation to decision making and performance. Human cognitive/affective states can be inferred from biometric data. For instance, brain waves and eye movements can measure cognitive states. Mental workload can be estimated from brain wave measurement, pupil diameter, skin conductance, cardiac measures and respiration rate. Affective state such as mental stress and other emotions can be inferred from body movements, facial expressions, and other biometric data. The objective of this proposed project is to develop biometric approaches for the quantification of pilot trainee's cognitive and affective states during the pilot training process. The deliverable from this proposed project will be an integrated solution to quantify pilot trainee's cognitive and affective states. As a result, a novel framework will be developed to bring advanced biometric measurement technologies and algorithms from the laboratory setting into the simulator-based pilot training environment. This framework can be easily extended to other complex yet critical field applications such as medical and military mission training. This proposed project team will include three universities: Concordia University, University of Montreal, and McGill University, on national research lab: National Research Council Canada, three companies: CAE, Marivent, and GlobVision, and one research consortium: CRIAQ (Consortium for Research and Innovation in Aerospace in Québec).

Automated data collection, processing and analysis platform using drone & artificial intelligence

Theme: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE & DATA VALORIZATION

Acronym: AI-PAC /Status: Project in progress /Program: Maturing Technology

The use of RPAS (drones) in the construction and mining sectors has its share of problems in terms of integration into the work process: lack of standards during data collection, complexity in the analysis of these data and long delays before being able to make interventions according to the results...

Automated data collection, processing and analysis platform using drone & artificial intelligence

Theme: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE & DATA VALORIZATION

Acronym: AI-PAC /Status: Project in progress

Program: Maturing Technology

The use of RPAS (drones) in the construction and mining sectors has its share of problems in terms of integration into the work process: lack of standards during data collection, complexity in the analysis of these data and long delays before being able to make interventions according to the results obtained. Two Montreal SMEs, ARA Robotique and Chaac Technologies, in partnership with the Center de géomatique du Québec (CGQ) are developing a platform to automate the acquisition, processing and analysis of RPAS data for the construction and mining using the latest technologies in terms of aerial robotics, connectivity and artificial intelligence. The expected results of this project are to provide critical information delivery services to end users through field data updated in near real time. This platform aims to be able to collect data, process it and analyze it in the hours that follow. The information obtained will be available in the form of reports, including information on enumeration, detection of anomalies, and measurements of volumes and areas. This new technology will enrich the offer of high value-added services for the targeted sectors. Ultimately, this project will also contribute to the development of niche expertise in Quebec allowing the creation of highly specialized jobs within partner companies. In the long term, this new technology will help promote Quebec's influence in the field of RPAS and artificial intelligence.

A vision-aided navigation system for long-range unmanned aerial vehicles: towards safer flights beyond visual line of sight

Theme: UAVs AND AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES

Acronym: SNAIV /Status: Project in progress /Program: Maturing Technology

The main concern for flying drones beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) is that they share the airspace with manned aircraft, thus creating the risk of midair collisions. In addition, drones require to get close to the ground at some point during their mission, e.g. for remote landing. This creates a...

A vision-aided navigation system for long-range unmanned aerial vehicles: towards safer flights beyond visual line of sight

Theme: UAVs AND AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES

Acronym: SNAIV /Status: Project in progress

Program: Maturing Technology

The main concern for flying drones beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) is that they share the airspace with manned aircraft, thus creating the risk of midair collisions. In addition, drones require to get close to the ground at some point during their mission, e.g. for remote landing. This creates an additional risk of damage to people and vital infrastructure on the ground. To address these concerns, first, UAVs should be trackable at all times. The location of the drone should be broadcast in live mode to the pilot in command. Second, the drone should be equipped with a robust detect-and-avoid system to avoid all obstacles including ground infrastructure and other flying objects. Although there exist satellite-based positioning systems (GNSS) and radar-based and acoustic collision-avoidance systems, no one can deny the capacity of vision-based solutions for better situational awareness. The detection of errors in navigation, deviations from flight plans, moving objects and static obstacles can all be improved with the help of vision. Only if drones could see, perceive and react like humans! Accordingly, the main objective of this project is equipping long-range drones with complementary navigation utilities, specifically regarding their positioning and detect-and-avoid capability, using omni-directional optical sensors and advanced techniques of computer vision and artificial intelligence (hereby known as vision intelligence). This project is the result of collaborations between the lead enterprise, Aéronyx Inc, the industry partner, DroneVolt Inc, the research organization partner, Centre de géomatique du Québec, and the certification partner, Marinvent. Together, these partners establish a unique expertise and experience portfolio required to achieve the objectives of this project. The outcomes of this project will enable drones to make sense of the complex aviation environment more intelligently and, thus, assist the pilot in command to accomplish safer and less human-centric (more autonomous) flights particularly beyond the visual line of sight. The potential of drones to fly beyond the visual line of sight represents a considerable opportunity for commercial drone-service businesses. Some of the applications that cannot be executed effectively without BVLOS include: corridor mapping like roads, pipeline, railways and transmission line mapping, forest fire mapping, search and rescue, large-scale precision agriculture, conservation management, drone delivery, forestry at large scale, and border’s security control, just to name a few.

Integrated evaluation of human risks in UAV operations

Theme: UAVs AND AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES

Acronym: HSE /Status: Project in progress /Program: Maturing Technology

This project seeks to develop an innovative tool to support both the design and the evaluation of regulations and certification processes for single and multidrone technologies. The proposed solution will offer user-friendly functionalities to run drone operations within an ultra-realistic 3D simula...

Integrated evaluation of human risks in UAV operations

Theme: UAVs AND AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES

Acronym: HSE /Status: Project in progress

Program: Maturing Technology /Sub-program: PME Demonstrator

This project seeks to develop an innovative tool to support both the design and the evaluation of regulations and certification processes for single and multidrone technologies. The proposed solution will offer user-friendly functionalities to run drone operations within an ultra-realistic 3D simulator, allowing regulators to assess the impact of proposed norms and rules in terms of human risks, as well as UAV solution providers to validate the conformity of their proposed solutions in relation to those norms and rules. The new tool will be built as a plugin of the Hyper-X-Space (HXS), the open innovation platform for rapid development of multi-drone and multi-agent solutions provided directly by Humanitas Solutions. Five main project objectives have been identified: Design and implementation of 3D protocols and scenarios for the automated assessment of human and critical infrastructure risk probabilities. Great attention will be devoted to the evaluation of standards and mitigation strategies associated with positioning and navigation systems, as well as UAV control interfaces, possibly powered by Augmented Reality (AR). Development of the HXS plugin for automated human risk assessment, including specialized functions for monitoring and analysis of metrics of interest, as well as for dynamic scenario configuration. Design and implementation of a new HXS library dedicated to the dynamic modeling of the human agents and the vehicles that will populate evaluation scenarios. Development of a plugin for real-time integration with air traffic data. Production of a preliminary assessment report to be sent to the regulator (Transport Canada). The project involves 4 industrial partners and 2 academic partners: Humanitas Solutions will provide and develop the 3D evaluation platform HXS; Elisen Associates will offer its expertise in airspace system certification and regulation to support regulation analysis and protocol design activities; Ciena will collaborate on the analysis of ethical impact of autonomous systems and AI solutions (such as privacy and security); Ecole Polytechnique de Montreall will contribute to R&D activities related to simulation and artificial intelligence themes.

A Safe, Authority-Managed UAS Traffic Management

Theme: UAVs AND AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES

Acronym: safeUTM /Status: Project in progress /Program: Maturing Technology

Our solution suite consists of several components that provide specialized features for making automated, semi-automated, or manual UAV operations much safer, while providing authorities and law enforcement bodies with the tools for oversight and control that can guarantee the compliance with their ...

A Safe, Authority-Managed UAS Traffic Management

Theme: UAVs AND AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES

Acronym: safeUTM /Status: Project in progress

Program: Maturing Technology /Sub-program: PME Demonstrator

Our solution suite consists of several components that provide specialized features for making automated, semi-automated, or manual UAV operations much safer, while providing authorities and law enforcement bodies with the tools for oversight and control that can guarantee the compliance with their regulatory framework. This modular approach provides great flexibility for deploying customized solutions that can work both as stand-alone modules or integrated solutions. Our technologies are designed and built with a safety-first approach, following aerospace and communication industries best practices. SafeUTM platform a large-scale software development project, expected to be the first truly complete Canadian UTM (UAS Traffic Management). The SafeUTM platform is expected to support a combination of different features that ensures the safe operations of RPAS, such as Detect and Avoid techniques for different flight escenarios, cross-domain segregated redundant communications (e.g. cellular network, satellite communications, among others) to enhance C2 link robustness, and capability to detect other RPAS (not friendly) in restricted airspace and no restricted airspace. To achieve the objectives, Savinte has sought expertise from different partners such as Concordia University as the main academic partner and Romaeris Inc. as the primary industrial partner.  The goal is to add value, create high fidelity systems, and have the means to verify and validate all of the components in a real life scenario via a flight test program. Concordia University will work on a sense and avoid algorithm. The objective of this algorithm is to detect and avoid fixed and moving obstacles in real time using sampling of the environment surrounding the vehicle and adaptive flight control laws. The algorithm will be based on rapidly exploring random trees. SafeUTM will integrate technology provided by Concordia University pertaining to detect and avoid techniques. This partnership is expected to create core functions that will be used as part of the flight management functionality provided by SafeUTM. Furthermore, Savinte will be able to leverage from great technical expertise and accelerate development of project. Leveraging Romaeris expertise in flight operations with their technology, Savinte is planning to create a flight test program to validate (and eventually certify once regulations allow) the different components of SafeUTM in a real-life scenario, including beyond visual line of sight flights. This way, we provide initial great value to Airspace Regulatory agencies like Transport Canada & Nav Canada, to Airport & Port Authorities, as well as to enterprises making UAV systems (such as Romaeris).

Autonomous Drone Navigation for Interaction with Powered Lines

Theme: UAVs AND AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES

Acronym: NADILE /Status: Project in progress /Program: Exploring Technology

DroneVolt Canada has recently launched a new drone product. This drone, the LineDrone, developed by Hydro-Québec, can land on high-voltage transmission lines to carry out various high-value direct contact non-destructive inspections without interruption of service. This drone is currently pil...

Autonomous Drone Navigation for Interaction with Powered Lines

Theme: UAVs AND AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES

Acronym: NADILE /Status: Project in progress

Program: Exploring Technology

DroneVolt Canada has recently launched a new drone product. This drone, the LineDrone, developed by Hydro-Québec, can land on high-voltage transmission lines to carry out various high-value direct contact non-destructive inspections without interruption of service. This drone is currently piloted manually, as several sensors are affected by the strong electromagnetic field, which poses a number of challenges for operations in tight spaces near expensive/critical equipment. Manual operations force the pilot to stay immediately below the drone to align the drone for landing and to avoid obstacles. This complicates the deployment of the drone, lengthens operations and prevents its use where it could be particularly useful (for example, over rivers). Finally, due to its particular configuration, this drone can hardly operate in wind conditions above 20 km/h. All these constraints make the operation of this drone stressful, even for experienced pilots, and too often impossible. The overall objective of this project is therefore to allow a drone to navigate and land autonomously on energized power lines in a wide range of environmental conditions. These capabilities would allow DroneVolt to offer utility companies a unique product, which while being easy to use and deploy, would allow them to safely perform valuable inspection work. As part of this project, DroneVolt, Hydro-Québec and the Université de Sherbrooke (4 professors, 2 professionals, 1 postdoctoral fellow and 9 graduate students) will pool their respective expertise in dronautics, in high-voltage power lines and in robotics to improve the performance of this drone while developing the technologies necessary for autonomous operations in the particularly complex environment of energized high-voltage transmission lines. This project represents a unique opportunity for DroneVolt and Hydro-Québec to respond to a pressing need. As in most Western countries, the electricity network managed by Hydro-Québec is aging rapidly. The restoration programs associated with these networks are unfortunately complex and expensive, and planning for these operations is made difficult by the lack of quality information. This drone marketed by DroneVolt will make it possible to sense the remaining useful life of conductors. This information will allow system operators to better manage their assets, that is, to realize substantial savings while reducing service interruptions.

Detect and Avoid system Demonstration for Safe deployment of RPAS

Theme: UAVs AND AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES

Acronym: DAADS /Status: Project in progress /Program: Maturing Technology

The main objective of the project is to demonstrate a Detection and Avoidance System (DAA) integrated into a Remote Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS). This demonstration will allow NGC and its industrial partners Laflamme Aéro and CS Canada to increase the maturity of their respective technologi...

Detect and Avoid system Demonstration for Safe deployment of RPAS

Theme: UAVs AND AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES

Acronym: DAADS /Status: Project in progress

Program: Maturing Technology

The main objective of the project is to demonstrate a Detection and Avoidance System (DAA) integrated into a Remote Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS). This demonstration will allow NGC and its industrial partners Laflamme Aéro and CS Canada to increase the maturity of their respective technologies with a view to eventual commercialization. This demonstration will also make it possible to generate flight data, analyze the performance of the DAA system's components and share the results with the dispatchers. The aim of this project is to deploy these technologies with an RPAS system in the context of "Beyond Visual Line Of Sight" (BVLOS) missions.

Avionics for Communication, Navigation and Surveillance

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: NEXTGen SDAR /Status: Project in progress /Program: Exploring Technology

The Next Generation Software Defined Avionics Radio (SDAR) for Communication, Navigation and Surveillance (CNS) project (NextGen SDAR) is to design, develop and integrate Software Defined Avionic modules (SDAM) into a single hardware unit through a robust and optimized architecture. To do that, t...

Avionics for Communication, Navigation and Surveillance

Theme: AIRBORNE SMART TECHNOLOGIES

Acronym: NEXTGen SDAR /Status: Project in progress

Program: Exploring Technology

The Next Generation Software Defined Avionics Radio (SDAR) for Communication, Navigation and Surveillance (CNS) project (NextGen SDAR) is to design, develop and integrate Software Defined Avionic modules (SDAM) into a single hardware unit through a robust and optimized architecture. To do that, this project will be based on the major achievements of the previous NSERC AVIO-505 and AVIO-404 projects. In this new project, our collaboration with major avionic manufacturers (Thales, ACSS, SIICanada and Bombardier) aims to elevate and improve SDAR design and integration with readiness for a certifiable solution to the aviation market, while being compatible with modern avionic architectures such as IMA (Integrated Modular Avionics). This new design will cover modernized avionics functions such as VHF Omnidirectional Range (VOR), Instrument Landing System (ILS), Tactical Air Navigation (TACAN), Distance Measuring Equipment (DME), Automatic Dependent Surveillance – Broadcast (ADS-B) In/Out, Transponder Mode-S (TMS), Wide-Band Radio (WBR) and Radio Altimeters, as a critical system for both civilian and military. Fully integrated multimode SDAR with multi-standard RF front-end and novel multiband antenna designs will be completed in a unique integrated avionics network architecture. A large variety of tests including flight tests will be planned and scheduled all over the project for the validation. The challenge is to design the future SDAR architecture that can not only efficiently handle multiple critical functions, but also some advanced features such as signal Integrity Monitoring, authentication algorithms, degradation mitigation and fault tolerant capabilities while keeping minimum Size, Weight , Power and Cost (SWaP-C) requirements. The main outcome of the project is an innovative highly integrated solution for on-board CNS avionics systems that will eventually reduce significantly cables length and the number of components in modern aircrafts. Additionally, it could be easily adapted to cope with potential aeronautical standards changes or to be fitted to Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs).

Development of non destructive testing techniques

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: LDCOMP /Status: Project in progress /Program: Maturing Technology

The objective of this project is to develop new inspection techniques based on emerging non destructive testing methods applied to composite parts in aerospace. The methods considered in this study are thermography, digital radiography, shearography and laser-ultrasounds.

Development of non destructive testing techniques

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: LDCOMP /Status: Project in progress

International collaboration: Belgium

Program: Maturing Technology /Sub-program: International

The objective of this project is to develop new inspection techniques based on emerging non destructive testing methods applied to composite parts in aerospace. The methods considered in this study are thermography, digital radiography, shearography and laser-ultrasounds.

Parallel-hybrid Electric Propulsion Optimization for Regional Turboprop Aircraft

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: HEPOS /Status: Project in progress /Program: Exploring Technology

Hybrid-electric propulsion has the potential to reduce the fuel consumption of transport aircraft while being much more realistic than full-electric aircraft for conventional missions for the foreseeable future. One potential powertrain architecture is the parallel hybrid-electric system. A gener...

Parallel-hybrid Electric Propulsion Optimization for Regional Turboprop Aircraft

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: HEPOS /Status: Project in progress

Program: Exploring Technology

Hybrid-electric propulsion has the potential to reduce the fuel consumption of transport aircraft while being much more realistic than full-electric aircraft for conventional missions for the foreseeable future. One potential powertrain architecture is the parallel hybrid-electric system. A generator/motor is added in parallel to conventional turboshaft engines to supplement the engine on the ground or in flight during specific phases. By reducting the gas turbine operation at low efficiency, such as near-idle, a reduction in fuel burn near 30% can be achieved, thus reducing emissions and operating cost.

This research project aims at developing the key knowledge to explore and optimize parallel-hybrid electric propulsion for turboprop regional aircraft, both for single and multiengine aircraft configuration. Hybrid-electric powertrain optimization is complex since it is highly coupled with the aircraft, it requires detailed thermal simulation, and no historical trends can support the design process. A parametric, time-marching aircraft and powertrain simulator (second timescale) will be developed to analyse ;and optimize the system throughout the mission. The simulator will consider failure analysis, thermal management, transient mechanical response, various environmental conditions and mission profiles. In particular, the optimal solutions should comply to current and expected future regulation, such as the available reserve and missed approach. To improve the visualization and exploration of the optimal solutions, this project includes the generation of multidimensional pareto frontiers. The researchers will also perform a detailed electrical simulations (milisecond timescale) to identify potential challenges of the hybrid architecture and identify mitigation actions. Experimental test on an integrated 30 kW and 150 kW test bed will validate individual models. This research projet will benefit Canada as it will provide new business opportunities for Pratt and Whitney Canada (PWC), which aims at commercializing the technology based on the research results ;in the coming years.

Hybrid electric propulsion demo

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: HYPROP /Status: Project in progress /Program: Exploring Technology

There is considerable interest in the potential for hybrid-electric and electric propulsion systems to reduce emissions and operating cost. However, these systems introduce new failure modes and dynamics that need to be understood, simulated and tested, to be able to offer and eventually certify saf...

Hybrid electric propulsion demo

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: HYPROP /Status: Project in progress

Program: Exploring Technology

There is considerable interest in the potential for hybrid-electric and electric propulsion systems to reduce emissions and operating cost. However, these systems introduce new failure modes and dynamics that need to be understood, simulated and tested, to be able to offer and eventually certify safe, reliable and efficient hybrid electric propulsion systems for future hybrid propulsion aircraft. This project seeks to simulate and demonstrate an experimental reduced-scale hybrid electric propulsion system, to investigate failure modes and optimize performance in normal & degraded modes of operation.This project will develop and demonstrate skills in system integration, simulation, design and control in the aerospace context. Collaboration between partners is key for this project and a strong synergy is ensured by each partner bringing relevant, complementary expertise in electrical system simulation (Maya), prototype electric vehicle integration (IVI), and design of aerospace propulsion systems (P&WC). The HYPROP project will provide new knowledge about hybrid-electric propulsion to the Canadian and Quebecois partners and will be the foundation for future, higher TRL projects that will play a critical role to enable the Quebec and Canadian aerospace sector to compete to power future hybrid electric aircraft. Ultimately, this is mutually beneficial to Canada, Quebec and the industrial and academic partners.

Lightweight bionic A/C interior

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: LiBio /Status: Project in progress /Program: Maturing Technology

The LiBio project wants to enhance the passenger experience and comfort in business jets through the bionic design and functions integration of interior aircraft components. Combining additive manufacturing with topological optimization will lead to the fabrication of a prototype with a unique desig...

Lightweight bionic A/C interior

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: LiBio /Status: Project in progress

International collaboration: Germany

Program: Maturing Technology /Sub-program: International

The LiBio project wants to enhance the passenger experience and comfort in business jets through the bionic design and functions integration of interior aircraft components. Combining additive manufacturing with topological optimization will lead to the fabrication of a prototype with a unique design. This technology enables the mix of textures and colors thanks to the mix of thermoplastic and metal parts while easing the integration of elements like speakers or screens. An international consortium was built to lead this project. The partners, based in Germany, Austria and Canada, cover the entire supply chain, including initial design, topological optimization, manufacturing, assembling and testing in an integrator.

Additive manufacturing assemblies comparison

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-1615 /Status: Project in progress /Program: Exploring Technology

To minimize Buy-to-Fly ratio, adding complex features to simple shapes can be an optimized scenario. However, too many unknowns remain with regards to the impacts and performance of the different methods available. A selected superalloy will be the subject of this study.

Additive manufacturing assemblies comparison

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-1615 /Status: Project in progress

Program: Exploring Technology

To minimize Buy-to-Fly ratio, adding complex features to simple shapes can be an optimized scenario. However, too many unknowns remain with regards to the impacts and performance of the different methods available. A selected superalloy will be the subject of this study.

Mass production of induction welded thermoplastic composites

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-1709_INTL /Status: Project in progress /Program: Maturing Technology

The presence of many different parts in aircraft involves the manufacture of small series of many parts. The majority of the composite parts, made of thermosetting composites, are heavy and their manufacture is very long and manual. In order to lighten the structural masses of aircraft and bring job...

Mass production of induction welded thermoplastic composites

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: MANU-1709_INTL /Status: Project in progress

International collaboration: France

Program: Maturing Technology /Sub-program: International

The presence of many different parts in aircraft involves the manufacture of small series of many parts. The majority of the composite parts, made of thermosetting composites, are heavy and their manufacture is very long and manual. In order to lighten the structural masses of aircraft and bring jobs to Québec, Génik, Hutchinson, CRVI and ÉTS are developing an automated manufacturing line for lighter thermoplastic composites and a faster manufacturing cycle. This project integrates the development of a welding technology for induction thermoplastic composites, an intelligent machine vision system, including dimensional control, shape detection and automatic tool path generation. The particular characteristic of this production line is also the fact that it must be capable of mass production of individual parts, which requires a tool change capacity and very fast piece handling. In addition to induction welding, the automation of partial detection by mechanical vision and the handling of parts and tools make this project a particularly innovative research axis.

Thermally Sprayed Coatings for High Temperature Static Seals in Aeroengines

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: MANU-1719 /Status: Project in progress /Program: Exploring Technology

Reliability, safety and sustainability are all significant driving forces in the aerospace industry. Developments of new materials, processes and manufacturing steps, must meet these needs and also be economically viable. This proposal is focused on addressing these driving forces for a par...

Thermally Sprayed Coatings for High Temperature Static Seals in Aeroengines

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: MANU-1719 /Status: Project in progress

Program: Exploring Technology


Reliability, safety and sustainability are all significant driving forces in the aerospace industry. Developments of new materials, processes and manufacturing steps, must meet these needs and also be economically viable. This proposal is focused on addressing these driving forces for a particular component that is found throughout a gas turbine engine, called a ‘static seal’. This seal brings the surfaces of two components together to create a barrier between two sections of the engines at differing temperatures. The challenge is that the seal experiences vibration and exposure to high temperatures that leads to damage and eventual failure of the seal. Current technology for static seals is only capable of meeting the needs of the current generation of engines and do so with the caveat that seals will need to be inspected, repaired and replaced quite regularly. Using thermal spray, a technology that applies a protective coating, we will develop four new coatings based on materials that have shown promise for their high temperature capabilities. Development of innovative coatings that resist damage at high temperatures better than current technology will make static seals in gas turbine engines more reliable, safer and sustainable.

Flaw detection and damage tolerant design of components produced by laser powder bed metal fusion

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: FlawDetect /Status: Project in progress /Program: Exploring Technology

In this project, a combination of non-destructive inspection techniques and fatigue testing procedures will be used to characterize the defects induced during 3D printing of load-bearing metallic components of aircraft engines and structures and assess their impact on the fatigue life of these compo...

Flaw detection and damage tolerant design of components produced by laser powder bed metal fusion

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: FlawDetect /Status: Project in progress

Program: Exploring Technology

In this project, a combination of non-destructive inspection techniques and fatigue testing procedures will be used to characterize the defects induced during 3D printing of load-bearing metallic components of aircraft engines and structures and assess their impact on the fatigue life of these components. The results of these tests will provide the data supporting numerical simulations of the fatigue damage propagation and the development of advanced material/structural analysis methods aiming at predicting the fatigue life of AM components and offering clear guidelines for their quality control.

Interdisciplinary Aerothermodynamic Analysis And Design Methods for Transport Aircraft

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: Ice Genesis /Status: Project in progress /Program: Exploring Technology

The 5-year Industrial Research Chair proposes a holistic research program towards aerothermodynamic analysis and design for transport aircraft. The Chair program objectives are to: i) strengthen Polytechnique Montréal's expertise in the study of aerothermodynam...

Interdisciplinary Aerothermodynamic Analysis And Design Methods for Transport Aircraft

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: Ice Genesis /Status: Project in progress

International collaboration: Europe

Program: Exploring Technology /Sub-program: International

The 5-year Industrial Research Chair proposes a holistic research program towards aerothermodynamic analysis and design for transport aircraft. The Chair program objectives are to:

i) strengthen Polytechnique Montréal's expertise in the study of aerothermodynamics flows, notably aero-icing and turbulence modeling,

ii) increase our understanding on the impact of aerothermodynamics flows on aircraft aerodynamic analysis and design and

iii) provide an enhanced training environment for graduate students, notably through the development of state-of-the-art computational and experimental laboratories and with significant interactions with the industrial sponsor Bombardier Aerospace.

The Senior Industrial Chair shares an associate research professional with the applicant Canada Research Chair, helping close the gap between lower and higher Technology Readiness Levels research activities. The Senior Industrial Chair helps Polytechnique Montreal reach a critical mass in its academic programs to the study of complex aerodynamic problems, notably through the hiring of professor in the area of Detached Eddy Simulation and supporting five graduate students on a yearly basis. The research program plans to increase international visibility by promoting scientific exchanges in the area of aero-icing and turbulence modeling for applications to complex 3D aircraft geometries. Several underlying research projects performed within the program are part of the H2020 ICE GENESIS European project, comprising collaborative efforts from 36 different industrial/academic/research centers spanning Europe, Russia and Japan submitted in a parallel funding stream.
The anticipated impacts towards the Canadian industry are increased knowledge that will contribute to their competitiveness as well as improving air transport operations and certification standards.
 

Dependable & Explainable Learning

Theme: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE & DATA VALORIZATION

Acronym: DEEL /Status: Project in progress /Program: Exploring Technology

In order to improve processes efficiency and flight safety, aerospace industry is faced with real world problems that are difficult to resolve with classical approaches. Meanwhile, in recent years, artificial intelligence, more precisely machine learning, has made significant improvem...

Dependable & Explainable Learning

Theme: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE & DATA VALORIZATION

Acronym: DEEL /Status: Project in progress

International collaboration: France

Program: Exploring Technology /Sub-program: International

In order to improve processes efficiency and flight safety, aerospace industry is faced with real world problems
that are difficult to resolve with classical approaches. Meanwhile, in recent years, artificial intelligence, more
precisely machine learning, has made significant improvements in the resolution of these kinds of problems.
Applying them to the challenges of the aerospace industry could be an effective way to enhance the design and the
operation of flights and all processes involved. However, using these techniques in this context brings some issues
since artificial intelligence methods and tools do not have yet properties that guarantee and prove performance
enough for the level of certification needed by the aerospace industry. Indeed, since artificial intelligence does
not present characteristics of usual software, classical methods cannot be used to attain such guaranties.

Thus, born from the international collaboration between the Institute of Technology IRT Saint Exupery in
France, IVADO and CRIAQ in Montreal, the present CRD project aims to develop data analytic methods to
make several aspects of the aerospace industry products and processes more efficient, and, in the long term, to
understand how these systems will eventually be formally certified. These data analytic methods aim to improve
experts trust in the systems and try to answer the following questions:
- Robust Systems: How can we achieve efficiency even outside usual conditions of operation?
- Interpretability: How can we make the results of systems more understandable and explainable?
- Privacy by Design: How can we ensure the privacy and confidentiality of data used during the design and
operation?
- Certifiability: Based on the three preceding themes, what would be a reliable certification protocol of these
systems that would be accepted by the concerned authorities?

MDAO-NextGen: Developing next generation multi-disciplinary design, analysis and optimization capabilities for the next generation aircraft

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: AGILE4.0 /Status: Project in progress /Program: Exploring Technology

This project will develop a new generation of multidisciplinary design, analysis and optimization (MDAO) capabilities essential for the development of next generation aircraft. Next generation aircraft are characterized through increasing electrification: more electrical sub-systems, hyb...

MDAO-NextGen: Developing next generation multi-disciplinary design, analysis and optimization capabilities for the next generation aircraft

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: AGILE4.0 /Status: Project in progress

International collaboration: Europe

Program: Exploring Technology /Sub-program: International

This project will develop a new generation of multidisciplinary design, analysis and optimization (MDAO)
capabilities essential for the development of next generation aircraft. Next generation aircraft are characterized
through increasing electrification: more electrical sub-systems, hybrid-electric or distributed propulsion
(HEDP). Certifiability and maintainability of these new configurations are critical to a potential commercial
success. This project will investigate novel system architecting methodologies, using model-based systemsbr /> engineering and model-based safety assessment and a novel conceptual design thermal analysis capability. In
particular, the integration between aircraft-level propulsion system architectures and non-propulsive power
system architectures will be addressed. These new capabilities will allow trade-offs that have not been possible
to date. Therefore, this project will greatly increase Canadian savoir-faire, but also build strong international
collaboration through the European Union funded AGILE4.0 project.

Optimisation des Opérations Hivernales des pistes d'aéroports

Theme: AVIATION SERVICES AND OPERATIONS

Acronym: O2HPA /Status: Project in progress /Program: Exploring Technology

Un des aspects importants de  la sécurité aérienne concerne l'entretien  adéquat des pistes d'aéroports. Effectivement, tous types de contaminants solides ou liquides, du petit écrou à l'épaisse couche de neige peuven...

Optimisation des Opérations Hivernales des pistes d'aéroports

Theme: AVIATION SERVICES AND OPERATIONS

Acronym: O2HPA /Status: Project in progress

Program: Exploring Technology

Un des aspects importants de  la sécurité aérienne concerne l'entretien  adéquat des pistes d'aéroports. Effectivement, tous types de contaminants solides ou liquides, du petit écrou à l'épaisse couche de neige peuvent provoquer des accidents fatals. Ce projet de recherche porte sur l'entretien des pistes en conditions hivernales et plus précisément sur les divers produits déverglaçant. Bien que ces derniers soient utilisés en trés grande quantité, il existe trés peu d'étude expérimentale sur leur performance, sous différentes conditions climatiques et sous différente forme de dilution ou même, lorsqu'ils sont contaminés par d'autres fluides environnants.  L'équipe de l'Aéroports de Montréal, ADM, a donc contacté l'équipe du Laboratoire International des Matériaux Antigivre, LIMA, de l'Université du Québec  à Chicoutimi,  UQAC, afin  d'acquérir plus de connaissances sur la performance de ces produits dans le but d'optimiser la quantité à utiliser.  Effectivement, une réduction de la quantité permettrait de réduire leurs impacts environnementaux, leurs impacts nocifs sur certaines composantes d'aéronefs et leurs coûts. L'équipe du LIMA, possédant déjà une expertise reliée à l’évaluation des déverglaçant,  sera  secondée  par  une  équipe  multidisciplinaire incluant des experts en météorologie, WPred inc., en simulation numérique des phénoménes   givrants   de   l’École   de   Technologie   Supérieure   (ÉTS)   et   en développement de produits déverglaçant de Nachurs Alpine Solutions.

Development of a High-Efficiency Small Scale Turbogenerator

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: DHESST /Status: Project in progress /Program: Exploring Technology

Exonetik is a startup founded in 2013 in Sherbrooke with the objective to mature technologies licensed from Université de Sherbrooke (UdeS) and to bring them to the market with strategic partners, such as Bell Flight and Magna International. Exonetik Turbo, a division of Exonetik, Inside-out ...

Development of a High-Efficiency Small Scale Turbogenerator

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: DHESST /Status: Project in progress

Program: Exploring Technology

Exonetik is a startup founded in 2013 in Sherbrooke with the objective to mature technologies licensed from Université de Sherbrooke (UdeS) and to bring them to the market with strategic partners, such as Bell Flight and Magna International. Exonetik Turbo, a division of Exonetik, Inside-out Ceramic Turbine (ICT) technology has the potential to drastically cut greenhouse emissions by offering a microturbine that combines Diesel-engine efficiencies with gas-turbine power densities and multifuel capabilities. High thermal efficiencyis enabled by key technology derived from the UdeS Rim-Rotor Rotary Ramjet Engine (R4E) that allows high combustion temperature by using compression-loaded ceramic blades wrapped in a carbon-fiber rim-rotor. Using the R4E technology in a two-stage recuperative Brayton cycle, the ICT engine can achieve efficiencies up to 50% and power densities up to 5 kW/kg. These characteristics make the ICT engine an unmatchable power source for all mobile, portable and distributed applications in the 100-1000 kW range: gensets, combined heat and power (CHP), hybrid trucks, helicopters, turboprops, hybrid aircrafts, VTOLs, etc. The objective of the proposed research project is to develop the high-temperature Inside-Out Ceramic Turbine (ICT) and its supporting technologies to enable a clean, reliable, and power-dense turbogenerator for all mobile and distributed power needs. Fundamental and applied research will be carried on the key novel elements of the ICT turbogenerator and findings about the turbine, combustor, recuperator and electric generator will be in integrated in a complete turbogenerator prototype during year 2. Durability of the components will be assessed during year 3 with a 100h test of the turbogenerator prototype. If successful, this research will propel Exonetik Turbo to become a world-leader engine manufacturer and technology licenser here in Canada (Sherbrooke, Québec), thereby hiring and training highly-qualified personnel for the design, testing and assembly of the ICT engine.

TEST

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: TEST /Status: Project in finalization - complete team /Program: Exploring Technology

TEST

TEST

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: TEST /Status: Project in finalization - complete team

Program: Exploring Technology

TEST

Towards the prediction and optimisation of acoustic sources using deep learning

Theme: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE & DATA VALORIZATION

Acronym: DETONATION /Status: Project in finalization - complete team /Program: Exploring Technology

The objective of the project is to develop tools for rapid predictions of noise sources linked to flows on rotating machines using artificial intelligence techniques. These tools will be integrated into the industrial partner's Optisound software platform in order to respond more quic...

Towards the prediction and optimisation of acoustic sources using deep learning

Theme: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE & DATA VALORIZATION

Acronym: DETONATION /Status: Project in finalization - complete team

Program: Exploring Technology

The objective of the project is to develop tools for rapid predictions of noise sources linked to flows on rotating machines using artificial intelligence techniques.

These tools will be integrated into the industrial partner's Optisound software platform in order to respond more quickly and efficiently to industrial noise reduction needs.

Automated detection of methane plumes of satellites and airborne images and use of AI to optimise the reading of observations

Theme: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE & DATA VALORIZATION

Acronym: ADIMOR /Status: Project in finalization - complete team /Program: Exploring Technology

The project aims to support GHGSat operators in their mission to detect methane plumes from satellite and airborne images. An AI-based assistance tool will be developed to help operators focus their analysis on regions, whose images show a high emission potential.

Automated detection of methane plumes of satellites and airborne images and use of AI to optimise the reading of observations

Theme: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE & DATA VALORIZATION

Acronym: ADIMOR /Status: Project in finalization - complete team

Program: Exploring Technology

The project aims to support GHGSat operators in their mission to detect methane plumes from satellite and airborne images. An AI-based assistance tool will be developed to help operators focus their analysis on regions, whose images show a high emission potential.

Predictive Maintenance Technology

Theme: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE & DATA VALORIZATION

Acronym: PMT /Status: Project in finalization - complete team /Program: Maturing Technology

VOZWIN has designed a sub 350g UAV that can be flown in GPS denied space for 35 minutes, and we are furthering our technology by introduci...

Predictive Maintenance Technology

Theme: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE & DATA VALORIZATION

Acronym: PMT /Status: Project in finalization - complete team

Program: Maturing Technology

VOZWIN has designed a sub 350g UAV that can be flown in GPS denied space for 35 minutes, and we are furthering our technology by introducing a predictive maintenance suite. This project is aimed to providing higher reliability to the consumer. We have collected hours of data from our UAVs and their subsystems, with a noticeable pattern emerging. From the use of the data, we will develop a predictive maintenance platform that will allow for the UAVs and the end users to spend more time in air and less time in the maintenance bay. This will be achieved by identifying when a component needs to be replaced versus the traditional method by number of hours in use.

Simulation environment for artificial intelligence driven vehicles

Theme: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE & DATA VALORIZATION

Acronym: ENVIA /Status: Project in finalization - complete team /Program: Exploring Technology

This project aims to ensure the safety of control systems based on machine learning.  This project will enable the development of more autonomous, efficient and safe drones and aircraft.

Simulation environment for artificial intelligence driven vehicles

Theme: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE & DATA VALORIZATION

Acronym: ENVIA /Status: Project in finalization - complete team

Program: Exploring Technology

This project aims to ensure the safety of control systems based on machine learning. 

This project will enable the development of more autonomous, efficient and safe drones and aircraft.

Metal organic frameworks (MOFs) as hypergolic additives for rocket propulsion

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: RocketMof /Status: Project in finalization - complete team /Program: Exploring Technology

The project will study potential new fuels and additives that can be used in hybrid rocket engines. The use of these new fuels based on metal-organic framework polymers (MOFs) will make it possible to reduce the use of toxic compounds normally used in industry and to increase the performance of thes...

Metal organic frameworks (MOFs) as hypergolic additives for rocket propulsion

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: RocketMof /Status: Project in finalization - complete team

Program: Exploring Technology

The project will study potential new fuels and additives that can be used in hybrid rocket engines. The use of these new fuels based on metal-organic framework polymers (MOFs) will make it possible to reduce the use of toxic compounds normally used in industry and to increase the performance of these engines. 

Durable MR Actuators for Aircraft Primary Flight Systems

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: MRFS+ /Status: Project in finalization - complete team /Program: Exploring Technology

The objective of this project is to pursue fundamental and applied research on the aging of magnetorheological actuators for aerospace applications. This project, which involves 4 companies, from fluid manufacturers to helicopter manufacturers, will improve the design of durable and certifiable actu...

Durable MR Actuators for Aircraft Primary Flight Systems

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: MRFS+ /Status: Project in finalization - complete team

Program: Exploring Technology

The objective of this project is to pursue fundamental and applied research on the aging of magnetorheological actuators for aerospace applications. This project, which involves 4 companies, from fluid manufacturers to helicopter manufacturers, will improve the design of durable and certifiable actuators for the industry. 

Exploration and modeling of alternative propulsion technologies for business jets

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: EAP /Status: Project in finalization - complete team /Program: Exploring Technology

Exploration and modeling of alternative propulsion technologies for business jets

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: EAP /Status: Project in finalization - complete team

Program: Exploring Technology

Clean-fuel Efficient Rim-rotor Architecture MICroturbogenerator

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: CERAMIC /Status: Project in finalization - complete team /Program: Exploring Technology

...

Clean-fuel Efficient Rim-rotor Architecture MICroturbogenerator

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: CERAMIC /Status: Project in finalization - complete team

Program: Exploring Technology

Hybrid-electric propulsion requires clean and highly efficient new power sources to drastically exceed battery energy density and offset the additional cost of carbon neutral fuels such as hydrogen and synfuel. Exonetik turbogenerator, created in partnership with Université de Sherbrooke, has the potential to almost double the efficiency of current small gas turbines and operate at near-zero emissions by the reliable integration of ceramic blades in an inside-out configuration. Following the successful 100h-test of a proof-of-concept turbine prototype supported by CRIAQ, this proposed project aims at developing the critical technologies of the hot section (combustor and turbine) to operate the engine for thousands of hours with targeted performance. In particular, the team will develop and integrate in a turbogenerator: a creep-free retaining system for the blades in the hub, an insulated low-cooling carbon-polyimide structural shroud and an ultra-low-NOx highly recuperated micromix combustor, three of the critical components identified in the previous project. Success of this project will validate the technologies in a simulated environment through their integration in a complete, viable, closer-to-market prototype. Following this project, product development and commercialization with partners will lead to highly qualified jobs in the aeronautics sector here in Quebec. Once on the market, the turbogenerator is projected to save 3 Mt of CO2 during its first ten years of deployment in Quebec only, with worldwide potential several times greater.

Greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction through technology development of a hydrogen-based multi-source system for an airship

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: Oyana-H2 /Status: Project in finalization - complete team /Program: Exploring Technology

FLYING WHALES’ airships are today the only means of transport capable of moving very heavy loads (over 50 T) between two isolated points, located off land transportation networks at a competitive cost. The aeronautical industry is facing with a double challenge: (i) significantly reduce greenh...

Greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction through technology development of a hydrogen-based multi-source system for an airship

Theme: ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HYBRID PROPULSION

Acronym: Oyana-H2 /Status: Project in finalization - complete team

Program: Exploring Technology

FLYING WHALES’ airships are today the only means of transport capable of moving very heavy loads (over 50 T) between two isolated points, located off land transportation networks at a competitive cost. The aeronautical industry is facing with a double challenge: (i) significantly reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions; (ii) compensate for the decrease in fossil energy reserves by diversifying energy sources for propulsion. One of the solutions consists of benefiting from the already implemented thermal-electrical propulsion chain by replacing the fossil-fuel-based power generation with a decarbonised-fuel-based power generation. However, using such a high power decarbonised-fuel-based power generation for air transportation presents significant technological constraints in terms of energy density and specific power. To date, very little data exists on the systemic design of a power source for an aeronautical application. This research project proposes an innovative approach to a hybrid multi-source system design and management based on key parameters online identification. The identification of parameters, a key element of adaptive systems, makes it possible to work in the laboratory and then to scale to 1 with a minimum effort, which is innovative. The hybrid multisource system is built around several energy subsystems with complementary advantages: multi-fuel cells (multi PEMFC) for high energy density, batteries and/or supercapacitors for high specific power.All work will be done at a laboratory scale and techniques will be developed to promote the true scale-up. So, the results of this project will demonstrate that it is possible to reduce GHGs while promoting high energy density and high specific power. The industrial partner, FLYING WHALES Québec, subsidiary of FLYING WHALES group, will be the integrator of such systems and the project manager. Thus, the company will provide all the technical constraints concerning the airship (mass target, mission profile, details of the current power generation system). The Hydrogen Research Institute at the University of Quebec à Trois-Riviéres will be responsible for the multi-physics modelling, sizing and management of the hybrid multi-source. Ultimately, this project will lay the groundwork for the high-performance airship propulsion electrification while allowing Canadian industry to stay ahead of this promising high-power fuel cell technology for heavy transport applications (land, maritime or air) with low ecological impact.

Robust Bonded Repair Methodologies for Composite Aircraft Structures

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: C-BOND /Status: Project in finalization - complete team /Program: Exploring Technology

Robust Bonded Repair Methodologies for Composite Aircraft Structures

Theme: NEXT-GEN MANUFACTURING, TEST & MAINTENANCE

Acronym: C-BOND /Status: Project in finalization - complete team

Program: Exploring Technology

Acoustic Footprint Reduction of Shrouded Rotors

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: REAR /Status: Project in finalization - complete team /Program: Exploring Technology

Acoustic Footprint Reduction of Shrouded Rotors

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: REAR /Status: Project in finalization - complete team

Program: Exploring Technology

VIRTual design and testing of Aircraft Structure

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: VIRTAS /Status: Project in finalization - complete team /Program: Maturing Technology

Enable the development of hybrid fuselage and wing structures under fatigue cycling and advanced test monitoring techniques - Fuselage and Wing metallic and composite Structure design - Optimized for Static and Fatigue cases - Simulation-aided prediction, planning and monitoring of tests - Scalable ...

VIRTual design and testing of Aircraft Structure

Theme: ADVANCED MATERIALS AND STRUCTURE

Acronym: VIRTAS /Status: Project in finalization - complete team

Program: Maturing Technology

Enable the development of hybrid fuselage and wing structures under fatigue cycling and advanced test monitoring techniques - Fuselage and Wing metallic and composite Structure design - Optimized for Static and Fatigue cases - Simulation-aided prediction, planning and monitoring of tests - Scalable structural design for derivatives

Advanced AIRspace usability

Theme: AVIATION SERVICES AND OPERATIONS

Acronym: ADAIR /Status: Project in finalization - complete team /Program: Exploring Technology

The airspace will rapidly change in the next 15 years with increased automation of air traffic control, flight path tracking with strong time constraints and big data e...

Advanced AIRspace usability

Theme: AVIATION SERVICES AND OPERATIONS

Acronym: ADAIR /Status: Project in finalization - complete team

Program: Exploring Technology

The airspace will rapidly change in the next 15 years with increased automation of air traffic control, flight path tracking with strong time constraints and big data exchange between the aircraft and ground control for communication. However, little information is available to understand the impact of this transformation on the pilot's tasks and how to design the flight deck to reduce the risk of human error due to information overload. This project will design and validate, through pilot usability tests, innovative avionics solutions for  presentation of information, human-machine interaction, automation and decision support for the topics of trajectory management, information exchange and taxiing. The results of this project will be used to define new flight deck and avionics functionalities required to facilitate pilot integration with future airspace requirements and ensure safe operations.

Agile Next Generation Digital Aircraft Development

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: AGILE-NG /Status: Project in finalization - complete team /Program: Exploring Technology

To achieve a carbon-neutral aeronautics industry, aircraft manufacturers must invest in visionary concepts and novel technologies. At the same time, to be competitive, they also need to improve their development processes to make them more efficient a...

Agile Next Generation Digital Aircraft Development

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: AGILE-NG /Status: Project in finalization - complete team

International collaboration: Germany

Program: Exploring Technology /Sub-program: International

To achieve a carbon-neutral aeronautics industry, aircraft manufacturers must invest in visionary concepts and novel technologies. At the same time, to be competitive, they also need to improve their development processes to make them more efficient and effective. 
In this context, this project is pursuing research to accelerate the development process of future aircraft featuring novel technologies such as hybrid-electric propulsion and systems. Together with a research project submitted to the European Union (EU) called "AGILE Next Generation Digital Aircraft Development" (AGILE-NG), this project aims to develop novel design tools and methodologies to enable the development of more environmentally friendly aircraft in a shorter and less costly manner. In particular, this project aims to improve the conceptual design of aircraft by automating and optimizing the placement of aircraft systems and components, considering the many competing constraints. 
The industrial partners in Quebec will enable to shorten their development time and increase their competitiveness. In addition, HQP will be trained in an international cutting-edge research environment. 

Helicopter/UAV Aerodynamic Modeling flying into turbulent Atmospheric Conditions

Theme: INNOVATIVE DESIGN & SIMULATION

Acronym: HAMAC /Status: Project in finalization - complete team /Program: Exploring Technology

This project focuses on the modelling via artificial intelligence of rotary wing aircraft flight by coupling atmospheric models (e.g. complex urban environments) with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models, in particular the interactions of rotors with the ground and the multi-scale urban envi...