XTI Aerospace is taking a decisive step forward in the development of its TriFan 600 vertical takeoff aircraft. Thanks to its collaboration with the U.S. Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, the company has been able to run more than 1,500 computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations using the Frontier Frontier supercomputersupercomputer, considered the most powerful in the world.
TriFan 600 improves performance with advanced simulations
The use of Frontier allows the engineering team to digitally model the TriFan 600’s behavior of the TriFan 600 in multiple scenarios: from different speeds to flight configurations and mission profiles. These simulations are enabling optimization of both the aerodynamic performance and overall safety of the aircraft, which is crucial for future wind tunnel testing and FAA certification.
On TriFan 600 is designed as a fixed-wing aircraft with VTOL VTOL capabilitycapable fixed-wing aircraft, reaching cruise speeds of up to 311 mph and a range of 985 miles. This model seeks to inaugurate a new category within advanced air mobility: the xVTOL. Digital tools such as supercomputing allow significantly reducing development times, minimizing risks in early stages.
Preparation for certification
According to Scott Pomeroy, CEO of XTI, this strategic alliance with Oak Ridge allows “to accelerate the work of our engineering teams and mitigate key risks in the design of the TriFan 600.”
The company, which also has a business unit specializing in RTLS technologies, seeks to consolidate its leadership in the aerospace sector through innovations such as this one.
With simulations completed and aerodynamic improvements implemented, XTI is preparing to begin formal wind tunnel testing. formal wind tunnel testing.. These tests are an integral part of the certification process by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the first step in moving the aircraft into production and commercialization.
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Source and photo: XTI Aerospace
