Handbook

Students in Aircraft and Systems Design 2 will generally continue the preliminary design that they began in the first semester of the class with a greater focus on detailed design and testing. Advanced students will be given an option to explore a new design, moving through both ASD1 and ASD2 material. After a revision of flight performance, the course develops much more detailed estimates of the design lift, drag, and weight and balance distributions.  A propulsion system design is undertaken, coupled with a more detailed estimate of the aircraft's performance.  Third, simulated flight testing is conducted to evaluate the aircraft’s dynamic stability characteristics. Finally, the methods of wind tunnel testing are used to measure drag and compare with predictions.  Students work in design teams on their open-ended aircraft design project. 

This course is a 6 UOC capstone course and relies on the entire scope of knowledge gained in the undergraduate Aeronautical engineering program, with a particular focus on the Fundamentals of Flight, Structures, Controls, and Aerodynamics courses.  The course places a heavy emphasis on group work, open-ended design, and oral and written communication skills.