Module Code - Title:
ME4807
-
AIRCRAFT CONCEPTUAL DESIGN
Year Last Offered:
2025/6
Hours Per Week:
Grading Type:
N
Prerequisite Modules:
ME4827
ME4226
Rationale and Purpose of the Module:
To give the student an understanding of the synthesis of aircraft design, with emphasis on planform layout, structural and aerodynamic design, propulsion, stability and performance.
Syllabus:
Systems engineering process applied to aircraft design.
Preliminary sizing of critical parameters to specified performance requirements and airworthiness regulations.
Conceptual aircraft layout and scaling to requirements.
General arrangement of aircraft. Wing design, aerofoils, planform parameters selection, high lift devices, control devices.
Fuselage design, crew station, passenger compartment, cargo hold.
Integration of propulsion systems. Weights estimation, load & balance diagram. Vertical & horizontal tail - layout, sizing for stability, trim and control. Landing gear integration. Fuel system integration. Life cycle costs, cost estimation.
Learning Outcomes:
Cognitive (Knowledge, Understanding, Application, Analysis, Evaluation, Synthesis)
On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
1. Describe the systems engineering process, as applied to aircraft design.
2. Produce a conceptual aircraft layout to a specification, estimating the key parameters of weight, engine size and reference areas.
3. Design in concept the critical airplane components (wing, fuselage, empennage).
4. Design in concept the installation of airplane systems (powerplant, fuel system)
5. Appreciate the influence of life cycle costs and be familiar with cost estimation techniques appropriate to conceptual design.
Affective (Attitudes and Values)
none
Psychomotor (Physical Skills)
none
How the Module will be Taught and what will be the Learning Experiences of the Students:
Standard lectures. A group design, build and test project will be undertaken.
Research Findings Incorporated in to the Syllabus (If Relevant):
Prime Texts:
Raymer, D (2006)
Aircraft design: A conceptual approach, 4th ed.
, AIAA
Roskam, J (1990)
Airplane Design, parts 1-8
, Roskam aviation & engineering
Torenbeek, E (1982)
Synthesis of subsonic airplane design
, Delft University Press
Other Relevant Texts:
Programme(s) in which this Module is Offered:
Semester(s) Module is Offered:
Module Leader:
trevor.young@ul.ie