This group focuses on applied research, technology and development (RTD) activities for aerospace platforms with a strong focus on Light Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). Based on our in-house expertise together with our close collaboration with the university we provide extensive support to local initiatives during their early conceptualisation stages focusing on user-centred and market orientated design.

Our areas of expertise are:

• Aerodynamics load calculations for platform design and optimisation, with the use of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD).
• Mechanical engineering and structural elements and failure calculations with the use of Finite Element Analysis (FEA) for design optimisation.
• Physical ergonomics assessment and human factors engineering (HFE) in the design of vehicles, with special emphasis on cabin environments and passenger comfort.
• Cognitive ergonomics assessment and HFE in the design of human-system interfaces (HIS) and human-computer interaction (HCI).
• Flight dynamics and mission analysis for aerospace operations.
• Composite materials and advanced composite manufacturing techniques for aerospace applications.

Reference projects:

• LIFT – End-to-end design and Implementation of a high payload modular UAS with a standardised payload bay and dedicated on-board computing resources. With the participation of CTAE’s Robotics and Advanced Automation (RA) & Safety-Critical Software and Control (SC) groups.
• EsticBe – Evaluation, testing and modelling of integrated passenger comfort parameters in cabin environments.
• Multi.Matheria – Evaluation and modelling using soft computing techniques, of the influence of new materials on passenger experience and comfort in cabin environments. With the participation of CTAE’s RA group.
• Atlas - Aeronautic Applications of LIDAR Techniques for Air Safety Enhancement. User interface design and prototyping. With the participation of CTAE’s Remote sensing (RS) group.
• Galactic Suite - Preliminary study and mission analysis for private spaceflight. With the participation of former Human Spaceflight and Advanced Concepts group.
• SAAO/HFDC - Human factors and display considerations related to situational awareness in aviation operations during low visibility conditions. With the participation of CTAE’s RA group.

[Image: Virtual comfort testing for 'EsticBe']