Racing pedigree for engine design software

Lotus Engineering has released of the latest versions of its CAE packages.

Lotus Engineering has released of the latest versions of its CAE packages.

The simulation tools have underpinned powertrain and vehicle projects at the Hethel-based engineering consultancy since the mid-1980s.

Lotus engineers produced the software packages to meet their needs in engineering projects for clients around the globe.

Subsequent interest from many of these clients wishing to acquire the simulation software prompted Lotus to take it to market.

Lotus has now successfully licensed the software externally for the past 3 years.

Clients include tier one suppliers, vehicle OEMs, motor racing companies and a range of universities and research facilities around the world.

There are three PC-based simulation products available from Lotus Engineering Software.

Lotus Engine Simulation is a modelling environment for performance prediction of two- and four-stroke engines, in either naturally aspirated or pressure-charged forms and is also being used in conjunction with Lotus' advanced AVT system for powertrain research.

Lotus Vehicle Simulation allows the user to build a virtual vehicle and analyse its performance, exhaust emissions and fuel consumption over a range of differing simulation cycle types, from simple fixed speed runs to accelerations and legislative drive cycles.

Lotus Concept Valve Train offers kinematic performance analysis of valve actuation mechanisms.

Using these tools, Lotus Engineering has designed and developed world-class engines such as the Opel Family One and GM L850 global engines.

In vehicle development, it has excelled in the recent development of the Aston Martin V12 Vanquish, the multiple-award-winning Lotus Elise and the Opel Speedster/Vauxhall VX220.

The internationally recognised consultancy is currently working on over 50 projects at its Norfolk (UK), Michigan (USA) and Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) sites for 30 clients from around the globe.

"It is precisely because we use the software extensively within our own internal and client projects, and because we work closely with our software clients, that we are able to continuously improve and evolve the packages", explains Nigel Fleming, Head of Lotus Engineering Software.

"The latest releases are designed to combine a fully capable, integrated simulation environment with an intuitive and user-friendly interface.

This enables rapid familiarisation, allowing engineers to get up to speed faster and achieve greater productivity." New features incorporated in the latest versions of the software include increased compatibility through links to the popular Simulink modelling environment.

This allows complex control systems to be incorporated into models, extending the power of the simulation environment.

The packages are available individually or as integrated offerings through a range of flexible licensing options from Lotus Engineering Software.

Bespoke training packages can also be arranged.

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