SPIN - Development of an API for data transfer between thermo-mech
Space Forge Ltd, United Kingdom

The Space Placements in INdustry (SPIN) scheme provides placement opportunities for those considering employment in the space sector and connects space sector organisations who want to find the most talented and enthusiastic people to ensure the future success of their businesses. The scheme is managed by the UK Space Agency and supported by the Satellite Applications Catapult.

Space Forge are delighted to offer the following placement opportunity: SPIN - Development of an API for data transfer between thermo-mechanical simulations for re-entry analysis.

Space Forge is developing a deployable heat shield that will be opened up in orbit and protect our satellites returning from space. The SPINtern working on this project will gain familiarity with the multiphysics simulations involved in developing such a reentry solution. They will generate an API (Application Programming Interface.) script capable of reading simulation output data and importing or formatting it for use as input boundary conditions in other simulations.

Developing a system to survive re-entry requires consideration of multiple physics interactions that need to be accounted for; aerodynamic loads, heat loads, how these change depending on a spacecraft’s trajectory and shape, how they affect the performance of the reentry system, and how they drive its requirements.

Enabling transfer of data between different simulation types will allow for these interactions to be better predicted, and more accurate simulations to be produced. The desired outcome for this project would be for the SPINtern to develop an API that could read the upstream simulation results from our DSMC SPARTA solver and import this data as boundary conditions (e.g. heat flux, pressure) into our downstream thermo-fluids and thermo-structural models in Siemens Star-CCM+ and Simcenter (respectively).

The SPINtern would need to understand the physics behind these simulations and the relevant output data for the downstream models. They would need to gain an understanding of the data format generated by DSMC SPARTA and establish a way to map this onto other simulation models with a similar geometry but dissimilar mesh. They would be responsible for validating the behaviour of this API. Finally, the SPINtern would have the opportunity to conduct their own simulations of the re-entry system.

During this project, the applicant will learn about:

• Design and simulation workflows for the development of reentry hardware
• Software development for APIs
• CFD and thermo-structural finite element analysis and model creation
• The underlying physics of the aforementioned analyses
• Interfacing with engineers and physicists of varied disciplines (hypersonic aerothermodynamics, thermal analysis, structural analysis)
• Understanding of requirements definition
• Communication and presentation skills
• Preparation of reports and software manuals

Requirements

Is willing and able to learn new skills rapidly via online research and self-experimentation

Has passion for the space and green technology sectors

Ability to work effectively both individually and in small teams;

Able to write coherent reports and manuals to help others understand their work;

Capable of self-managing time and working to a deadline;

Being comfortable working in person and remotely with diverse teams;

Able to act responsibly and safely in the working environment;

Academic: An engineering or physics related course

Minimum requirements:

Are studying or just completed a physics, computer science or engineering degree

An interest and enthusiasm for the project

Is eligible to work in the UK without a visa

Desirable requirements:

Experience with API programming

Experience with programming languages, e.g. Python

An understanding of the physics behind aerothermodynamics, heat transfer, and/or structural design

An understanding of CFD, thermal FEA, and/or structural

• 8 weeks minimum fixed term contract to be agreed with successful candidate
• 5 days holiday to be taken during the placement

Space Forge is built from an extraordinarily diverse and eclectic team of makers, united by a love of space, a passion for entrepreneurship, and a collective drive to succeed.

We are committed to building an inclusive workplace and that starts with hiring diversely. However you identify, and whatever background you bring with you, we welcome you to apply for a role with us.

This job description set outs the skills and experience we believe are needed to be able to do this job but, research also tells us women are much more likely than men to

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