Supercomputers will help develop part of a new type of two-seater aircraft

Over the past five years, it has become clear that customers prefer two-seat aircraft with the performance and comfort of a modern, high-end car. BRM AERO is responding to this demand by designing a new model intended for basic pilot training, including aerobatic training. The growing market potential in the US and Europe suggests that demand for these planes will grow significantly, with BRM AERO exporting 90% of its production to more than 50 countries.

The new development method will focus primarily on the shape and configuration of the wing high-lift mechanism. Optimisation of the shape and path of the flaps will be key to achieving maximum efficiency.  Traditional computational methods have failed to achieve the required level of accuracy and optimisation. The innovative approach will result in a methodology that will not only create an optimised aircraft shape in a fraction of the time and cost but also reduce the weight and volume of production material, increase cruise speed, and reduce fuel consumption. This will lead to greater environmental sustainability while meeting strict safety and performance standards.

The project will make use of the latest technologies available at IT4Innovations National Supercomputing Center, which is part of VSB - Technical University of Ostrava. The key will be computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations, which can analyse the airflow around the aircraft in detail and optimise the shape of the flaps and wings to reduce drag and increase lift. Supercomputers will allow thousands of variations of these simulations to be processed efficiently and quickly. Another key technology used will be a neural network. This deep learning model will be trained on a large amount of data obtained from the simulations, allowing faster and more accurate design of optimal configurations. This significantly reduces the need for physical prototyping, saving time and cost. In the final stages of implementation, the new designs will be tested through 3D simulations to verify the aerodynamic properties of the optimised aircraft.

Financial support from the FFplus initiative was awarded to BRM AERO, a family-owned company specialising in custom aircraft manufacturing, to develop a new aircraft. To collaborate, the company has formed a strategic partnership with the engineering Airmobis company, which focuses on aerodynamic development work. IT4Innovations' comprehensive industry know-how will be complemented by its expertise in the use of advanced computer technology and simulation.

Editorial note
BRM AERO is a Czech family company from Kunovice, founded in 2009 by father and son, Milan and Martin Bříštěla. The company specialises in developing and manufacturing two-seater aircraft in ultralight, light sport, and general aviation categories. During its existence, it has delivered more than 1,000 aeroplanes to customers worldwide. Production takes place on an area of over 15,000 m², where more than 130 professionals work with a focus on quality, innovation, and safety. BRM AERO produces more than 110 aircraft per year, which are distributed through an international network of partners and dealers. The Bristell brand is known for its spaciousness, comfort, and customisation. Bristell aircraft are popular with private pilots, flight schools, and operators looking for a combination of performance, reliability, and high utility value. 
For more information about the company, see: www.bristell.com.

For more information about the FFplus initiative, see: www.ffplus-project.eu.