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Aircraft Systems Engineering

3-1-8 units · Graduate

Holistic view of the aircraft as a system, covering basic systems engineering, cost and weight estimation, basic aircraft performance, safety and reliability, life cycle topics, aircraft subsystems, risk analysis and management, and system realization. Small student teams retrospectively analyze an existing aircraft covering: key design drivers and decisions; aircraft attributes and subsystems; operational experience. Oral and written versions of the case study are delivered. Focuses on a systems engineering analysis of the Space Shuttle. Studies both design and operations of the shuttle, with frequent lectures by outside experts. Students choose specific shuttle systems for detailed analysis and develop new subsystem designs using state of the art technology.

Fall 2005

Topics

  • The Origins of the Space Shuttle
  • Space Shuttle History
  • Orbiter Sub-System Design
  • The Decision to Build the Shuttle
  • Orbiter Structure + Thermal Protection System
  • Propulsion - Space Shuttle Main Engines
  • Aerodynamics - (From Sub - to Hypersonic and Back)
  • Landing and Mechanical Systems
  • OMS, RCS, Fuel Cells, Auxiliary Power Unit and Hydraulic Systems
  • The DoD and the Space Shuttle
  • Use of Subsystems as a Function of Flight Phase
  • Aerothermodynamics
  • Environmental Control Systems
  • Ground Operations - Launching the Shuttle
  • Space Shuttle Accidents
  • Guidance, Navigation and Control
  • Mission Control 1
  • Mission Control 2
  • Design Process as it Relates to the Shuttle
  • EVA and Robotics on the Shuttle
  • Systems Engineering for Space Shuttle Payloads
  • Test Flying the Space Shuttle
  • Class Feedback and Wrap up

Readings

Fall 2004

Topics

  • Introduction to Course and to the Aircraft as a System
  • Lean System Engineering I
  • Lifecycle Considerations
  • Cost and Financial Analysis
  • Introduction to Aircraft Performance and Static Stability
  • Transport Aircraft Performance I
  • Transport Aircraft Performance II
  • Environmental Factors: Noise and Emissions
  • An Airline Viewpoint
  • Reliability and Maintenance
  • The Space Shuttle - A Case Study
  • Propulsion, Fuel, Accessory Systems
  • Life Support, Environmental, Accessory Systems
  • Flight Deck
  • Avionics, Air Data, Communications
  • Flight Controls
  • Electrical, Hydraulic, Pneumatic
  • Structural System
  • System Architecting for Safety
  • Commercial Aircraft System Verification, Validation and Certification
  • Lean System Engineering II
  • Military Aircraft System Verification, Validation, Certification
  • Risk Analysis and Management and Uncertainty
  • Case Study Oral Presentations
  • Trip to Sikorsky in Stratford, Connecticut

Prerequisites & course information

Prereq: Permission of instructor Acad Year 2027-2028: G (Fall) Acad Year 2028-2029: Not offered 3-1-8 units

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