In contrast to current certification projects, which still rely heavily on physical tests using samples or prototypes, computer-generated data is to be used to a greater extent in the future. Aircraft manufacturers hope that this will reduce the duration of the certification process - and the associated costs - and thus give them a competitive advantage. At the same time, the end-to-end digitalisation associated with simulation-based certification, from design through to certification, will make it possible to identify at an early stage whether the designs meet the subsequent certification requirements. If this is not the case, the design can be revised comparatively cost-effectively at a much earlier stage of product development than is currently the case.
The aim of DLR's AdViCe project is to increase the acceptance of numerically generated data in the certification of new aircraft. In doing so, AdViCe is contributing to a more simulation-based certification in the future. Although computer-generated data is already being used in isolated cases for showing of compliance to certification regulations, the vision of a simulation-based certification is to significantly expand this proportion and replace physical tests in such areas where simulation methods have already demonstrably reached a very high level of maturity. However, before the regulation authorities accept such a step, it is necessary to increase confidence in simulation data in many areas of application. This can be achieved by credibly demonstrating that all relevant physical processes that occur in reality can also be correctly modelled in the simulation and calculated as accurately as possible, taking uncertainties into account. This is precisely where the AdViCe project comes in.
In AdViCe, the DLR Institute of Aerodynamics and Flow Technology is developing various methods, e.g. to link uncertainty quantification methods to the CODA flow solver and apply them to certification-relevant use cases. In addition, flap failure cases are investigated in collaboration with the Institute of Flight Systems. At the same time, the Institute's scientists are validating the physical modelling of these methods and using scale-resolving simulations as a basis for comparison. In addition, AdViCe is developing standards for the use of various simulation methods as part of a simulation-based certification process, as well as developing processes for the traceability of digital data. To perform those simulations, DLR utilizes its high-perfomance computing systems CARA and CARO.
Project
AdViCe - Advanced Methods for Virtual Certification
Term
1/2024 - 12/2027
Partners
DLR Institute of Aerodynamics and Flow Technology
DLR Institute of Structure and Design
DLR Institute of Data Science
DLR Institute of Flight Systems
DLR Institute of Software Technology
DLR Institute of Software Methods for Product Virtualization
