Bristol-based Vertical Aerospace has partnered with Monolith, a London-based AI software provider, to transform its testing and simulation processes.
The collaboration aims to enhance the efficiency and precision of developing Vertical’s flagship VX4 eVTOL, which can carry four passengers up to 160km at speeds of around 240km/h.
The partnership marks a step forward in the integration of artificial intelligence into aerospace engineering. Monolith’s AI tools, including its proprietary ‘Next Test Recommender’ (NTR) algorithm, are designed to streamline complex and time-intensive testing processes by prioritising the most impactful tests.
Dr Richard Ahlfeld, Monolith’s Founder and CEO, emphasised the transformative potential of AI for the burgeoning eVTOL sector: “The eVTOL industry faces intense time and cost pressures to reach commercialisation. We can reduce five years’ worth of simulation tests down to two weeks with machine learning tools – a game-changing capability for the eVTOL industry.”
Data-driven innovation
Flight and ground testing for eVTOL aircraft like the VX4 involve evaluating thousands of design parameters across a range of operating conditions, making them both costly and time-consuming. Vertical Aerospace’s structured datasets provide the foundation for Monolith’s AI to excel.
Monolith’s NTR algorithm learns from historical data to predict system performance under untested conditions and recommends the next most informative tests. This enables Vertical’s engineers to focus resources on critical areas, reducing development timelines without compromising safety or performance.
The initial focus of the partnership is the testing and simulation of the VX4’s pylon structures, which support its propellers and electric motors. The insights generated will not only optimise these systems but also contribute to meeting rigorous safety and airworthiness standards.
Dr Ahlfeld sees comparisons to past technological shifts. “Just as CAD revolutionised design engineering in the 1980s, AI is emerging as the next transformative technology in engineering. Early adopters are already seeing remarkable benefits.”
Vertical Aerospace, founded in 2016, has already garnered significant interest with approximately 1,500 pre-orders for the VX4 from customers including American Airlines and Japan Airlines.
