3 Credit Hours

Introduction to the aerodynamics and performance of vertical and short take-off and landing vehicles. Aerodynamics of propellers and rotors. High lift devices.

Prerequisites

Undergraduate/graduate course in aerodynamics/fluid mechanics or consent of instructor.

Course Objectives

After completing the course, the student should be able to:

• Identify the basic parts of a V/STOL aircraft
• Describe the technical problems associated with vertical flight
• Explain the unique nature of rotary wing aerodynamics
• Apply the use of high lift devices to V/STOL aircraft.
• Apply the aerodynamics of propellers and rotors to a V/STOL aircraft.
• Calculate fundamental parameters for a vehicle that is capable of vertical take-off.
• Solve practical problems associated with V/STOL aircraft.

Course Requirements

5 Homework Assignments, 2 Midterms, Project and Final Exam.

Textbook

Gordon J. Leishman, Principles of Helicopter Aerodynamics, Second Edition, Cambridge University Press, 2006.

Software Requirements

Laptop/Computer for learning platform Moodle and matlab for homework and project.

Created: 04/01/2025