HeliusMCT™, the trademarked moniker for Helius multicontinuum technology, is a new finite element analysis software code developed specifically for predicting the behavior and failure of materials and structures composed of at least two different materials, such as fiber and resin.

The technology was tested, demonstrated, and commercialized through a pivotal three-way partnership among the Air Force Research Laboratory Space Vehicles Directorate (AFRL/RV), Firehole Technologies (Laramie, Wyo.), and Load Path (Albuquerque, N.M.).

The technology was tested, demonstrated, and commercialized through a pivotal three-way partnership among the Air Force Research Laboratory Space Vehicles Directorate (AFRL/RV), Firehole Technologies (Laramie, Wyo.), and Load Path (Albuquerque, N.M.).

This technology transfer partnership was initiated using a Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) contract. Firehole Technologies responded to the AFRL-written topic; Load Path, a small business CRADA partner with AFRL/RV, provided the test data that was critical to demonstrating the capabilities of HeliusMCT.

The software has been widely adopted by the multibillion-dollar global composites industry. It is currently in use at AFRL; multiple NASA and Department of Energy facilities; and airplane, satellite, and launch vehicle (rocket) producers, in addition to the sporting goods, yachting, auto racing, and wind energy industries. The widespread adoption of the technology has led to broad economic impacts, including the acquisition of Firehole Technologies by the Fortune 350 software giant Autodesk.