What is AirShaper?
AirShaper is a Belgian startup shaking up the world of aerodynamics with its automated online simulation platform. Designed for designers and engineers alike, it lets users analyze and optimize airflow around their digital 3D models—no simulation expertise needed. By breaking down both knowledge and cost barriers, AirShaper makes the complex field of aerodynamics accessible to a much wider audience. It’s all about making aerodynamics easy, fast, and cloud-based, so anyone can get precise insights without the usual headaches.
Main Benefits of AirShaper
Why choose AirShaper? Well, it’s packed with advantages that really stand out:
- Zero license fees—say goodbye to costly software licenses.
- Supports non-watertight 3D models, so you don’t have to stress about perfect files.
- Fully automated workflow that saves time and money.
- Setup in under 5 minutes—no CAD prep required.
- Interactive 3D results that make understanding your data a breeze.
- Built on OpenFOAM, ensuring industry-proven accuracy.
- Flexible plans with no hardware investment needed.
- Expert support to guide you along the way.
Applications Across Industries
AirShaper isn’t just for one niche—it’s versatile. In automotive engineering, it helps reduce aerodynamic drag, which means lower fuel consumption and extended electric vehicle range. It also optimizes cooling systems and ducting for smarter thermal management. Aerospace? Absolutely. It fine-tunes lift-to-drag ratios for longer flight ranges, boosts payload capacity, and enhances propeller performance. Beyond that, it serves sectors like sports, buildings, turbines, and even hydrodynamics, covering everything from AUVs and ROVs to submerged structures.
Advanced Optimization and Analysis
What sets AirShaper apart is its advanced simulation tech. Users can conduct detailed aerodynamic and hydrodynamic analyses to understand flow patterns and forces impacting their designs. The platform offers automated design advice with intuitive, color-coded visualizations that highlight improvement areas. Plus, it features morphing capabilities—automatically tweaking your 3D shape within a defined design space to optimize form and function. It’s like having a digital design coach right at your fingertips.
Trusted by Industry Leaders
AirShaper’s credibility shines through its impressive client list. From Morgan Motor Company and Pal-V—the world’s first flying car—to General Electric Renewable Energy and Redbull, it’s trusted by top players across aerospace, automotive, sports, and engineering sectors. These partnerships underscore the platform’s precision and reliability in delivering aerodynamic testing that truly matters.
Project Impact and Sustainable Development Goals
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy – by optimizing aerodynamic efficiency, AirShaper helps reduce energy consumption.
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – fostering innovation in design and engineering processes.
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – improving airflow around buildings to reduce wind gusts and enhance comfort.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – lowering emissions through better vehicle and aircraft aerodynamics.
Getting Started and Practical Tips
Jumping into AirShaper is straightforward. Upload your 3D files—STL format is standard, but with an annual plan, you get access to OBJ, STEP, and IGES formats too. Keep file sizes under 100 MB for STL, or upgrade your plan for larger uploads. Pro tip: save STL files in binary format when possible for best results. While watertight models are recommended for highest accuracy, the platform also supports non-watertight ones, so no need to sweat perfection. It’s all about making aerodynamic simulation hassle-free and accessible.
