Strengths

Your advantage: everything from a single source!

We cover all processes – from development to certified assembly. Our clients define the scope of the products and services they choose to acquire.

Take advantage of our know-how for your new products.

Our experience is a valuable support in developing innovative and cost-effective solutions.

Specialties

Computer (simulations and birdstrike testing)
Scratch-proof coatings
Anti-UV coating
Multilayer heatable windshields
Carbon fibre transparency frames
Integrate detonation cord systems

Example: New and stronger windshield design for the L-39 Trainer

At the time the L-39 trainer was the official training aircraft for the Eastern Block. It was built in large numbers by Aerovodochody in the former Czechoslovakia and originally featured a windshield made in the country. Many L-39s continue to be in use worldwide.

This reliable and beautiful aircraft is flown by the Breitling display team based in Dijon for demonstrations around the world.

During a training flight the aircraft flown by the team commander suffered a collision with a bird of prey whereby it penetrated the windshield and hit the pilot in the face.

Following this incident MECAPLEX was contacted to develop and produce a stronger windshield.

Task:

To develop a stronger windshield able to withstand a hit with a 2 lb bird at a relative speed of 378 kts.
To preserve as much as possible the original frame structure in the redesign process in order to prevent the need for recertification

Solution:

LS-DYNA analysis to define the new material thickness and configuration as well as design
To test the new design’s impact on the existing frame structure in terms of load and deformation in the event of bird strike
The new design was approved by the aircraft manufacturer and released for production.

As shown in the picture, the new MECAPLEX windshields have proven their effectiveness in practical use. Once again, an aircraft of the Breitling team suffered a collision with a big bird. This time, however, the windshield received no more than some scratches and the pilot suffered no injuries.

The new windshields are available from MECAPLEX with effective support for assembly and installation.