
Platform System Design


25 February 2025
Unmanned rotorcraft systems
NLR offers independent research, development and consultancy to Unmanned Rotocraft Systems (URS) stakeholders. We can support you with our ample experience in the flight testing, airworthiness, qualification and certification of both manned and unmanned aircraft. We also have expertise in UAS Regulations, and are involvement in the development of standards (EUROCAE WG-105, ASTM F-38).

25 February 2025
Aircraft conceptual design
NLR has a long track record in aircraft multidisciplinary design and optimisation, compiled from collaborations with international industrial and research partners. Our expertise includes conceptual design and sizing methodologies for conventional and hybrid-electric propelled aircraft, as well as corresponding efficient and integrated tooling, such as MUCH - a multidisciplinary conceptual design platform for hybrid electric aircraft. Additionally, we possess advanced aircraft propulsion and mission modelling capabilities, enabling us to provide comprehensive expertise for the development of innovative aircraft concepts.

25 February 2025
Energy performance analysis of aircraft
NLR has a long term expertise in aircraft performance modelling and simulation, following a multidisciplinary approach that combines knowledge from various fields to provide comprehensive insights. Through active collaboration with European research and industrial partners in relevant research projects, we have developed and continuously improved our methods for energy performance analysis of novel aircraft. Our expertise includes efficient tooling for mission performance and scenario analysis of aircraft with hybrid electric propulsion (MASS), with models of various complexity levels, depending on the needs.

25 February 2025
Acoustic fatigue analysis
NLR offers a comprehensive range of capabilities to support the analysis and testing of structural elements and structures subjected to acoustic loads. Our expertise includes fast analytical and accurate numerical methods to predict resonant frequencies, as well as methods to determine the acoustic load on your structure. We also have the capability to manufacture steel or composite structural elements and structures and to instrument them with strain gauges for endurance tests on a shaker.

25 February 2025
Ship-helicopter operational limitations
NLR can help optimise the aerodynamics of a ship's superstructure to reduce exhaust gas nuisance above the flight deck, ensuring a safer and more efficient operating environment. We can also support the integration of air operations early in the ship design phase, ensuring optimal operational capabilities on small vessels or frigates, while prioritising flight safety. Additionally, our expertise enables us to determine Ship-Helicopter Operational Limits (SHOL), providing valuable insights to maximise safety and performance.

25 February 2025
Airborne wind energy
NLR can support the development of innovative Airborne Wind Energy (AWE) concepts through design and product development, as well as advanced analysis and optimisation of wind energy system behaviour. We also offer expertise in structural design of lightweight components, material selection for high-load long-endurance components, and evaluation of wind energy systems under off-design conditions. Additionally, we provide strength, endurance and quality testing of components for wind energy systems, helping to ensure the reliability and performance of your wind energy solutions.

24 February 2025
RPAS environmental impact, policy and systems
NLR has extensive expertise in supporting the development and operation of Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS or drones). We can assist with analysing the noise impact of RPAS, both in terms of detectability and noise pollution on the ground. Our capabilities also include designing a registration system for aircraft movements, including drones, as well as measuring and analysing performance data of these systems. Additionally, we can conduct future scenario studies on the use of drones, exploring their potential as complementary or replacement solutions for current air vehicles, while taking into account environmental aspects such as noise, emissions, and third-party risk.

24 February 2025
Aircraft component design
NLR can help you achieve better aircraft component design in less time and at lower costs. Our expertise enables product improvement, weight reduction, and minimisation of production and maintenance costs, while ensuring compliance with environmental constraints. We focus on optimising critical components such as wings, control surfaces like flaps and tail planes, structural parts, fuselage panels, floor beams, and propellers. By leveraging our knowledge and capabilities, you can enhance the performance, efficiency, and sustainability of your aircraft components, ultimately increasing competitiveness and reducing environmental impact while improving overall safety and reliability.