NASA LaRC already owns a copy of VIC-3D(R) which it uses for modeling forward and inverse problems in eddy-current NDE. With the enhancements proposed in this project, NASA LaRC will be able to extend its modeling capability to more accurately characterize damage conditions in cfrps, as well as run large problems much more efficiently.
There are 35 commercial and university research institutions around the world that own copies of VIC-3D(R) which they use for the same purposes as NASA LaRC. They will have the same advantages with the enhanced version of VIC-3D(R). Furthermore, aerospace companies, such as Boeing, and SpaceX (Elon Musk), that are developing vehicles that use advanced composites, such as carbon-fiber reinforced polymers (cfrp) will be able to use the enhanced version of VIC-3D(R). A more prosaic industry that is using cfrp advanced composites in their vehicles is auto racing, especially IndyCar. With a successful Phase II, we will be in a better position to approach them and offer our services through VIC-3D(R) for inspecting their cars. Composites are also being used in the burgeoning wind-turbine industry, and, of course, in sporting equipment, such as golf clubs and tennis rackets.
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