Zahra O'Connor currently serves as a Principal Engineer at Collins Aerospace, where she leverages her extensive background in mechanical engineering and fluid dynamics to drive innovative solutions in thermal management systems. With a Ph.D. specializing in multiphase fluid flow and heat transfer phenomena, Zahra has...
Zahra O'Connor currently serves as a Principal Engineer at Collins Aerospace, where she leverages her extensive background in mechanical engineering and fluid dynamics to drive innovative solutions in thermal management systems. With a Ph.D. specializing in multiphase fluid flow and heat transfer phenomena, Zahra has become a key contributor to the design and optimization of advanced cooling systems critical for aerospace applications. One of her notable projects includes the design of a recuperator for an active two-phase flow cooling system, where she meticulously reviewed existing literature and applied fundamental engineering principles to enhance system efficiency and reliability.
In addition to her design work, Zahra has developed a robust MATLAB code for the design of shell and tube heat exchangers, incorporating capabilities for both single-phase and two-phase flow. This tool not only streamlines the design process but also allows for precise thermal analysis, ensuring optimal performance under varying operational conditions. Her expertise in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) has been instrumental in simulating complex thermal scenarios, providing valuable insights that inform decision-making and system improvements.
Zahra's collaborative spirit shines through her work with astronauts on exploration missions, where she applies her knowledge of thermal engineering to address the unique challenges posed by space environments. Her proficiency in systems engineering, data acquisition, and advanced software tools such as SOLIDWORKS and C++ further enhances her ability to tackle multifaceted engineering problems. With a commitment to innovation and excellence, Zahra O'Connor continues to make significant contributions to the aerospace industry, ensuring the development of cutting-edge technologies that support the future of space exploration.
