Collier Research Corporation, of Hampton, Virginia, has a long history with NASA and is the first company to license software developed at the space agency. That software, HyperSizer, is a structural sizing and optimization tool which is used in a feedback loop to improve designs by significantly reducing weight and cost, while at the same time maximizing structural integrity and manufacturability. The software analyzes complex composite structures, as well as metals and other materials, by quickly evaluating designs in a ply-by-ply and even finite element-by-element method. Collier’s software has helped aerospace users such as NASA, Lockheed Martin, Boeing, and Bombardier trim at least 25% of the weight from structures. Given current economic pressures this innovative weight-saving software solution has application in a wide range of industries; including wind energy, shipbuilding, high-speed rail, and transportation.
