2024/25 Taught Postgraduate Module Catalogue

MECH5025M Advanced Aerodynamics

15 creditsClass Size: 100

Module manager: Dr Eric Lo
Email: K.H.Lo@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable

Year running 2024/25

Pre-requisite qualifications

UG Fluid mechanics

Module replaces

MECH3790 on MSc programme

This module is not approved as an Elective

Module summary

This module extends fluid dynamics theory to aerodynamic design across a range of length scales, Reynolds and Mach numbers. The course is split into three sections covering; subsonic, transonic, and supersonic flow. Students will developed a good understanding of why aerospace vehicles operating in these speed regimes look the way they do from an aerodynamic perspective, and be able to perform design studies using analytical, computational and experimental methods.

Objectives

The module aims to provide students with a critical understanding of practical aerodynamic flows relevant to aeronautical engineering at subsonic, transonic and supersonic speeds and the methods used by aerodynamicists to simulate and measure flowfields.

Learning outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes relevant to the subject:
1. Apply aerodynamic theory in the context of an aerospace vehicle design problem
2. Evaluate the most suitable modelling approach when solving complex aerodynamic design problems
3. Evaluate the appropriateness of design concepts for complex aerodynamic design problems
4. Analyse a complex flow field using flow visualisation methods

Upon successful completion of this module the following Engineering Council Accreditation of Higher Education Programmes (AHEP) learning outcome descriptors (fourth edition) are satisfied:
5. Apply a comprehensive knowledge of mathematics, statistics, natural science and engineering principles to the solution of complex problems. Much of the knowledge will be at the forefront of the particular subject of study and informed by a critical awareness of new developments and the wider context of engineering. (M1)
6. Formulate and analyse complex problems to reach substantiated conclusions. This will involve evaluating available data using first principles of mathematics, statistics, natural science and engineering principles, and using engineering judgment to work with information that may be uncertain or incomplete, discussing the limitations of the techniques employed. (M2)
7. Select and apply appropriate computational and analytical techniques to model complex problems, discussing the limitations of the techniques employed. (M3)


Skills Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following skills:

* Problem solving & analytical skills
* Critical thinking
* Computational mechanics
* Laboratory practice

Syllabus

Introduction to aerodynamic forces and the characteristics of real flows

Subsonic aerodynamics
- Introduction of circulation and lift, Kutta condition, Kelvin’s circulation theorem and starting vortex
- Drag synthesis
- Review of subsonic design methods
o Panel methods and viscous coupling schemes
o Thin aerofoil theory
o Vortex lattice method
- Laminar and turbulent boundary layer equations
- Separation and transition
- Subsonic aerofoil and wing design
- High angle of attack aerodynamics: vortex lift, delta wings and lifting bodies
- Wind tunnel testing techniques

Transonic aerodynamics
- Full velocity potential equation
- Linearized velocity potential theory
- Prandtl-Glauet rule and other compressibility correction
- Critical Pressure Coefficient and Critical Mach number
- Transonic aerofoil design: Supercritical aerofoils, shock induced separation and buffet
- Panel methods for transonic aerofoil design
- Transonic wing design: Wing sweep and area ruling

Supersonic aerodynamics
- Introduction to Mach wave, normal, oblique, bow and lambda shock waves
- Shock wave-boundary layer interactions
- Introduction to shock-expansion theory and linearised supersonic aerofoil theory
- Introduction to shock polar curves
- Introduction to supersonic aerofoil design

Advanced topics
- Shock tube theory
- Introduction to shock reflection, deflection and shock-shock interactions, Shock/BL interaction
- Crocco’s theorem
- Flow control

Methods of Assessment

We are currently refreshing our modules to make sure students have the best possible experience. Full assessment details for this module are not available before the start of the academic year, at which time details of the assessment(s) will be provided.

Assessment for this module will consist of;

1 x Coursework
1 x Exam

Teaching methods

Delivery type	Number	Length hours	Student hours
Lecture	22	1.00	22.00
Practical	1	2.00	2.00
Seminar	9	1.00	9.00
Private study hours			117.00
Total Contact hours			33.00
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits)			150.00

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

In-person drop-in sessions most weeks to help students with problems and provide feedback, plus formative examples and quizes for students to work through.

Reading list

The reading list is available from the Library website

Last updated: 29/04/2024

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