This paper summarizes the implementation of a Virtual Testing methodology in an industrial environment to predict the mechanical behaviour of composite material through the different scales of the conventional physical testing pyramid. A robust Virtual Test Lab allows for the generation of virtual allowables, while advanced interface models ensure accurate simulation of critical interfaces up to structural level. Hybrid simulation-physical testing approaches, that can support both conventional rapid sizing and high-fidelity analysis methods, have been applied during the development of a thermoplastic orthogrid fuselage shell and will be coupled with the manufacturing process though a virtual process chain for the development of a thermoplastic fuselage for the next generation aircraft. @en

This paper discusses the development and underlying requirements of a multifunctional lower fuselage demonstrator for a new single aisle aircraft undertaken as part of the Clean Sky 2, Large Passenger Aircraft – Platform 2. The demonstrator will validate high potential combinations of airframe structures, systems, cargo and cabin technology concepts using advanced materials and innovative design principles. @en