The project, called Wing Design Methodology Validation (WINDY) has been made possible through a joint industry and UK government investment, supported by the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI). “Aircraft wing design is a hugely complicated process and this project will look at ways we can increase the robustness of the design and test process while also reducing the time this takes,” said Airbus Chief Operating Officer Tom Williams.

The project will be led by a team from Airbus in Filton, Bristol, and as a partner, Renishaw will provide its expertise in metal additive manufacturing (3D printing) and precision measurement.

Clive Martell, Renishaw’s Head of Global Additive Manufacturing said: “If we can highlight the design and production benefits of this technology in one of the most demanding industry sectors, then it paves the way for greater of adoption of AM for serialised production in many other applications.” WINDY will look at aerodynamic modelling of wings, the potential for use of complex 3D-printed components in wing structures and the possibility of innovative loads control on aircraft for better efficiency in flight.

APMEN News, Nov 2016