93753 - Fundamentals Of Aerodynamics

Learning outcomes

The integrated course Fundamentals of Aerospace Engineering introduces the student to the principles that govern the design and operation of aerospace vehicles. The student develops a multidisciplinary understanding of the main areas of aerospace engineering — aerodynamics, propulsion, structures, and flight mechanics — learning how aerodynamic, structural, and performance aspects interact in defining an aircraft configuration. In this module, the student learns to describe and interpret the physical mechanisms underlying the generation of lift and drag on aircraft and their components. Basic mathematical models are introduced to estimate aerodynamic forces and moments, forming the foundation for more advanced aerodynamic and design analyses.

Course contents

1. Airforil Theory: Review of fundamental equations and boundary layer theory. Description and nomenclature - Lift generation - Pressure distribution and performance analysis; Numerical estimation methods of lift on airfoil sections: Potential flow theory - thin-foil theory - panel methods; Methods of estimation of Drag: flat plate theory - form drag; Polar graph of airfoils; FLaps and slats; Compressibility effects: Prandl-Glauert corrections.

2. Three-dimensional wings: general description; vorticity and velocity fields over a finite wing; Wake and induced drag; Methods of estimating lift on 3-D wings: lift-line theory; Effect of swept wings; Computational methods of drag; Three-dimensional boundary layer; Stall on 3-D wings, Polar of 3-D wings; Delta wings

Readings/Bibliography

Elements of Fluid-Dynamics - G. Buresti

Fundamentals of Aerodynamics - J-D. Andersson

Lecture Notes

Teaching methods

Whiteboard and Slide-supported lectures

Excercises

Assessment methods

The exam consists of a single oral session. To pass the exam, the student must demonstrate sufficient knowledge of all the fundamental aspects underlieng the mechanism of generation of lift and drag, of the mathematical models to make quantitative predictions and of the main engineering results presented in the course.

To a positive evaluation will contribute the clarity of explanation as well as the ability of making connections between the mathematical models and the underlying physical and engineering aspects of the subjects covered.

Teaching tools

Lecture notes and PPT slides

Matlab codes

Simulation tools

Office hours

See the website of Gabriele Bellani