- Modelling to protect aircraft against lightning strikes
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Before commercialising an aircraft, a manufacturer must guarantee its safety by following a certification process. Composite materials are finding increasing use in aeronautical applications because of the advantages they offer: a reduced number of parts, weight savings and shorter production times. However, their use can lead to electromagnetic problems, particularly in the event of thunderstorms, because of their low electrical conductivity.
In this context, 3D electromagnetic modelling is an innovative way of assessing the induced currents critical systems are subjected to. To examine these issues Dassault Aviation approached the XLIM Carnot Institute, which is widely recognised for its expertise in Electromagnetic Compatibility.
The XLIM Carnot institute is currently developing a certification tool based on innovative electromagnetic modelling for aircraft.
This electromagnetic model allows an entirely virtual prototype of an aircraft to be created. It also enables calculation of the stresses suffered by its on-board equipment during a lightning strike.
The tool will allow electromagnetic problems to be anticipated as early as the design phase and will provide crucial support during certification of the next generation of aircraft.
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- Fluorescent probe for perioperative use
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The CEA-LETI Carnot Institute has developed tracers and a fluorescent imaging probe for perioperative use.
It allows surgeons to precisely map tumour extension, so as to guide them in the removal of cancerous tissue. The patient’s prognostic is improved because the affected tissue can be eliminated more effectively.
The probe has been optimised to offer high sensitivity under operating theatre lighting conditions, allowing the surgeon to operate and view the fluorescent areas simultaneously. Start-up firm Fluoptics was set up to produce and commercialise the probe.
The aim is for the Fluobeam probe to quickly position itself on the preclinical market and conquer the perioperative clinical imaging market.
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- Windscreens and wipers, visibility hangs by a thread
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Valéo leads the world in the design, manufacture and sale of components for the integrated systems of cars and HGVs. Part of its technological innovation strategy lies in the area of windscreen wiping. The windscreen wiper principle rests upon a very small rubber/glass contact area. To improve the expulsion of water and eliminate squeaking, a fundamental understanding of tribological and vibroacoustic phenomena is required.
The company called upon the I@L Carnot Institute, the Laboratory of Tribology and System Dynamics at the Ecole Centrale de Lyon, which is the worldwide leader in the field of tribology and specialises in acoustic materials.
This research partnership revolves around the use of optical technologies and statistical description to identify friction properties depending on sliding speed and the quantity of water at the elastomer/glass interface.
Valéo is now developing technology to reduce unwanted noise and increase product lifetime. This innovation enables the company to take a real technological head start. Valéo offers wiper blades that perform better and are more competitive, for improved safety and driver comfort.
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