Pratt & Whitney Canada
During my 4 month internship at Pratt and Whitney, I was part of the Compressor Static Structures Team as a Structural Analysis Intern.
Credits: Image sourced from Pratt and Whitney Website
I contributed to the structural analysis and performance optimization of composite static airfoils. I conducted FEA using Ansys Workbench (ACP, Static Structural, SS Thermal) to evaluate airfoil behavior under various loading conditions, ensuring compliance with structural integrity targets and low-cycle fatigue (LCF) requirements. The simulation results achieved a <5% error margin compared to test data, underscoring the accuracy and reliability of the models. Furthermore, I developed and calibrated hailstone impact models in LS-DYNA to enhance the accuracy of simulations against real-world impact scenarios. These efforts significantly supported the team in meeting strict safety and performance standards set by aviation authorities, including the FAA, EASA, and Transport Canada.
Credits: Image sourced from Pratt and Whitney Website
Blade-Off Release Containment Analysis Project
In a separate project, I focused on blade-off release containment analysis for compressor static structures. I conducted detailed simulations using LS-DYNA, complemented by hand calculations and advanced meshing techniques in Hypermesh. By leveraging CATIA v5 for design iterations, I streamlined the analysis process and contributed to faster certification timelines. This project required close collaboration with cross-functional teams to ensure that the designs adhered to rigorous safety standards and met regulatory compliance. My work not only improved the reliability of containment systems but also enhanced the overall efficiency of the design validation process, ensuring alignment with project deadlines and operational goals.
Raytheon ELCAN Technologies
During my 8 month internship at Raytheon, I was part of the mechanical design team as a mechanical engineering intern.
Innovative Rifle Sight Sub-Assembly Cost-Savings Project
I took the lead in simplifying a sub-assembly within two of ELCAN’s production rifle sight units with the aim of eliminating an off-the-shelf component to an in-house manufactured component. The objective was to reduce parts, cut manufacturing and assembly times, and significantly lower the overall sub-assembly cost. The project aimed to implement an innovative component, unprecedented in previous opto-mechanical systems. Therefore, to uphold Raytheon’s image of producing exceptional quality and reliable products, a lot of extensive research and analysis was required. This included Finite Element Analysis of critical components, tolerance analysis for feasible production, and creating test plans to ensure the component wouldn’t fail due to fatigue after an X amount of cycles. I can proudly say after presenting the project and gaining approval, the innovative approach was projected to save approximately $300k annually.
Credits: Image sourced from the Raytheon ELCAN Website
New Primer Qualification and Integration
Another project I took the lead on was the verification of a new primer, as a potential substitute for the soon-to-be-obsolete existing primer. The objective was to integrate the new primer with in-house adhesive, adhering to ASTM D429A standards. This involved designing a test setup and mold, refining the mold through iterations and tolerance analysis, and ultimately 3D printing the test mold. The new primer underwent pull tests on the Instron Machine for 3 different materials, compared with the old primer. Given the lack of available data for the old primer, additional testing was conducted for a thorough qualification process. After numerous tests, a Design Validation Test Report was released, confirming the new primer's effectiveness in cohesive failure, enhanced surface energy, and achieving the desired maximum force across the sample size. To ensure a smooth transition, the report outlined key recommendations for integrating the new primer into the product lineup.