SI2 cockpit

French software firm Dassault Systèmes and Solar Impulse have renewed their technical partnership on a solar-powered round-the-world aircraft project.

Launched in April, the Solar Impulse 2 aeroplane is designed using Dassault Systèmes’ 3DEXPERIENCE platform, including CATIA and ENOVIA applications.

The Solar Impulse 2 is the upgraded version of the prototype Solar Impulse 1, which is a test bed for the complex technologies required to fly day and night using solar energy.

Under the latest deal, Dassault Systèmes will contribute its expertise to accelerate the next phases of the Solar Impulse 2 project.

"The Solar Impulse project is showing the world that alternative, clean energy can be safe and viable in the most extreme circumstances."

The company said that its technologies have been in use by the Solar Impulse since 2006 and helped smooth execution of the development processes and milestones.

Solar Impulse co-founder, CEO and pilot André Borschberg said: "For over a century, pioneers have been pushing the limits of aviation and transforming ideas into ‘firsts,’ from the first human flight to balloon flights and space missions once thought to be impossible.

"We continue to apply this entrepreneurial spirit to engineering and research programs that blend 21st century technologies like the 3DEXPERIENCE platform with a mission to improve mankind’s impact on the environment."

The Solar Impulse 2 has a wingspan of 72m, weighs 2.3t and its wings are equipped with 18,000 solar cells which convert sunlight into electricity. The aircraft is scheduled for a round-the-world flight in 2015.


Image: Solar Impulse 2 cockpit. Photo: courtesy of Dassault Systèmes / Business Wire.

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