Progressive engineering is usually based on a combination of simulation and testing. Testing can often be done on a component level to validate a numerical simulation, which can then be used for understanding full-scale results. An example of the combination of mathematical modelling with rig tests is the invention of the jet engine. One means of gaining access to both facets of this efficient combination is to find a partner to provide any missing pieces. Happy reading.
Hydraulic Cylinder Performance Enhanced with Crack Simulation
To ensure hydraulic cylinders are fit for the real-world conditions seen by earth-moving equipment, an Italian company has built up a significant body of experimental failure data. To lessen their full-scale tests and interpret results more quickly, they are turning to non-linear finite element analysis.
Design World, February 2012
How to Evaluate a Joint Venture
Joint ventures allow businesses to quickly add a desirable competence so that the sum is greater than the individual parts. Many companies now outsource research and development: “There are too many good ideas and useful information out there for you to try and innovate on your own.”
Inc., March 2011
How Whittle Reached New Heights
This year marks the 60th year since the de Havilland Comet entered service as the world’s first jet passenger aircraft. A look back at Sir Frank Whittle’s first proposal for turbine propulsion shows that it was based on his understanding of the academic fundamentals of engine performance.
Professional Engineering, March 2012
Flames, Quakes & Ballistics: A Day in the Natural Disasters Lab
This virtual tour of a test lab shows equipment and experiments used by the insurance industry to understand how products react during disasters. Testing is important in order to ensure that products are designed for safety. I imagine that these people probably get a lot of job satisfaction.
Popular Mechanics