93753 - Fundamentals Of Aerodynamics

Learning outcomes

At the end of the module, by applying acquired in the courses of basic physics and fluid mechanics, the student will be able to describe the main physical mechanisms underlying the generation of lift and drag on the aircraft or on its individual components. Mathematical models will be introduced to carry out numerically, where this is possible, an initial estimate of these force components.

Course contents

1. Airforil 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;

3. Full-plane aerodynamics: Aerodynamics of fusolage; Tail plane and Canard configuration; Full-plane Polar;

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 session in which the student should first answer a written test. The test is later discussed with each student and oral questions are proposed about theoretical aspects. The student must show a sufficient skill in writing down and commenting the mathematical models as well as the physical aspects.

Teaching tools

Lecture notes and PPT slides

Matlab codes

Simulation tools

Office hours

See the website of Gabriele Bellani