Aeroelasticity

3 credits · Undergraduate Programs

Introduction to the interactions between structural dynamics (elastic and inertia forces) and aerodynamic forces. Students will learn the main concepts of static aeroelasticity (lift distribution, divergence and control effectiveness) and dynamic aeroelasticity (flutter) for fixed-wing aircraft. Students will learn how to derive the equations of motion for complete aeroelastic systems, apply various methods of structural dynamics analysis and perform simplified analysis of static and dynamic aeroelastic phenomena. Students will also learn the elementary methods of incorporating aeroelastic phenomena in aircraft design and the importance of doing so from a practical point of view. The main objective of this course is to provide students with the technical background to understand the main principles of aircraft aeroelasticity. Prerequisite(s): Mechanical Engineering 479 and 570.