NOVA
Our Mission:

Innovating nonlinear structural dynamic simulations by providing a cutting-edge computational tool for the analysis of assemblies with frictional contact interfaces. NOVA is the result of the academic excellence of the Politecnico di Torino combined with collaborations with industry. NOVA provides engineers and researchers with accurate, efficient and robust analysis tools that drive innovation.

Our Team

Stefano Zucca

Stefano Zucca

Team Leader

I am Full Professor of Machine Design at Politecnico di Torino, with over 20 years of experience in studying the effects of friction on the dynamic behavior of mechanical systems. During my career, I have contributed to expanding the boundaries of knowledge in this field, publishing over 80 peer-reviewed papers and actively collaborating with some of the major turbomachinery industries. I supervise the development of NOVA, defining strategic development lines and supporting the team in addressing complex modeling and computational challenges.

Giacomo Saletti

Giacomo Saletti

Software Developer

I am a Ph.D. student in Politecnico di Torino, I have a solid background on turbomachinery non-linear dynamic analysis. Currently my research focuses on frequency domain solution methods for gear dynamics. I took part in the NOVA development in 2022. I am currently involved with NOVA as a software developer.

Andrea Saponaro

Andrea Saponaro

Software Developer

I am currently a Ph.D. student in Mechanical Engineering at the Politecnico di Torino, with a research background focused on structural dynamics involving contact nonlinearities. My research activity focuses on the development of nonlinear solvers, based on domain decomposition techniques, for the solution of large scale problems on HPC environments. I took part in the NOVA development in 2022. I am currently involved with NOVA as a software developer.

Mehrdad Pourkiaee

Mehrdad Pourkiaee

Consultant

I hold a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, with a research background in reduced-order modeling and nonlinear dynamical systems, resulting in more than ten peer-reviewed publications. During my academic career, I developed the legacy codebase upon which NOVA has been built and continues to evolve. I have since transitioned to industry, where I work in the aerospace sector with a focus on structural dynamics and aeroelasticity. I remain involved with NOVA as a consultant, supporting and advising the current development team.