The future of air travel is taking flight, and it’s looking remarkably different. Altair (Nasdaq: ALTR), a global leader in computational intelligence, and JetZero, a pioneering company dedicated to developing the world’s first commercial blended-wing airplane, have joined forces.
Their collaboration aims to redefine aerospace innovation, pushing the boundaries of fuel efficiency and sustainable flight.
Blended-Wing Aircraft Technology
Imagine an aircraft that dramatically reduces fuel consumption, extends flight range, and boasts a sleek, aerodynamic design. This is the promise of the blended-wing airplane. JetZero estimates a staggering 50% reduction in fuel consumption and associated emissions.
This is all made possible through the revolutionary design of their aircraft. To support this ambitious goal, they are using Altair® FlightStream™, a powerful component of the Altair® HyperWorks® design and simulation platform.
Fluid Dynamics Simulations
This cutting edge technology allows JetZero to conduct advanced computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. These simulations are crucial for understanding and optimizing the airflow around the aircraft, ultimately leading to a more efficient and aerodynamic design.
Moreover, Altair’s solutions significantly reduce computational costs and smooth the innovation process, accelerating time to market.
Pietro Cervellera, senior vice president of aerospace and defense at Altair was pleased with the new blended-wing aircraft collaboration. “Altair is thrilled that JetZero, a true innovator in the aerospace industry, is using our simulation and AI technology to redefine the limits of airplane design.”
“JetZero’s vision aligns perfectly with our own: to create a more efficient and sustainable aerospace industry. Altair’s comprehensive technology portfolio is uniquely positioned to accelerate design, simplify complexity, and expand the possibilities in aerospace.”
Tom O’Leary, co-founder and chief executive officer of JetZero, added further comments. “JetZero relies on Altair technology because it empowers us to fulfill our mission of achieving the most significant advancement in aviation since the dawn of the jet age.”
“With FlightStream and other tools within the Altair suite, our team can execute simulations rapidly, at scale, and with the necessary simplicity to transform an entire industry. The Z4 airplane is inevitable, and Altair is instrumental in shaping the future of aviation.”
Addressing Design Challenges
Altair’s solutions bridge the gap between high fidelity CFD simulation and practical engineering, enabling JetZero to address conceptual and preliminary design challenges related to aerodynamic surfaces and structures with unparalleled speed and efficiency.
FlightStream boasts exceptional computational speed, minimal hardware requirements, and user friendly interface. The robust aerodynamic solver makes it an important tool for rapid early stage design iterations and comprehensive aerodynamic studies.
Furthermore, JetZero is a valued participant in the Altair Aerospace Startup Acceleration Program (ASAP). This program provides JetZero with affordable and flexible access to Altair’s complete range of simulation, data analytics, and artificial intelligence (AI) tools. This access includes solutions for carrying out interior noise studies, which are crucial for better passenger comfort.
Integrated Wing Design
The blended-wing airplane design distinguishes itself from traditional tube-and-wing configurations by integrating the wings with the aircraft’s body. This design allows all body surfaces to generate lift and minimize drag.
The wider body also expands interior space, increased the passenger experience and payload capacity for freighter variants.
The blended wing body’s efficient structure reduces weight and noise compared to conventional aircraft. Additionally, designers position the engines on the upper rear of the aircraft, directing engine noise upwards during takeoff and landing. The configuration thereby minimizes noise pollution for communities near airports.
JetZero aims to achieve the first full scale flight of its innovative design in 2027. This will mark a significant moment in the pursuit of sustainable aviation.
By collaborating with Altair, JetZero is taking a giant leap towards a greener and more efficient future for air travel.
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