Overview
This course develops the mechanics, applied mathematics, and engineering models required to analyse aircraft motion, performance, stability, and control. Topics include coordinate systems, reference frames, translational and rotational kinematics, forces and moments, and the six-degree-of-freedom equations of motion.
Students analyse atmospheric models, thrust and power requirements, drag polars, climb, descent, glide, range, endurance, takeoff, landing, turning flight, manoeuvre envelopes, and energy methods. Stability and control studies address trim, linearisation, aircraft derivatives, static and dynamic stability, longitudinal and lateral-directional modes, and the functions of primary and secondary control surfaces. Analytical and computational methods are used to simulate trajectories, assess disturbances and control inputs, validate results, and formulate engineering recommendations with explicit assumptions and limitations.
Learning Outcomes
- Derive and interpret the translational and rotational equations governing six-degree-of-freedom aircraft motion.
- Calculate steady and unsteady flight performance using atmospheric models, propulsion characteristics, drag polars, and energy methods.
- Determine aircraft trim conditions across representative flight configurations and operating conditions.
- Evaluate static and dynamic stability using aircraft derivatives, linearised models, and characteristic response modes.
- Model aircraft responses to pilot commands, autopilot inputs, disturbances, and control-surface deflections.
- Simulate aircraft trajectories and performance using appropriate computational tools and assess sensitivity to mass, altitude, propulsion, and configuration.
- Validate analytical and computational results against physical expectations, experimental data, or published performance information.
- Present clear engineering recommendations supported by stated assumptions, uncertainty considerations, and model limitations.
Timetable
| Type | Length | Frequency | Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lecture | 2 hours | Weekly | All semester |
| Tutorial | 1 hour | Weekly | All semester |
| Lab | 2 hours | Fortnightly | All semester |
| Workshop | 2 hours | Fortnightly | All semester |
Assessment Schedule
| Type | Description | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Assignment | Analytical flight mechanics assignment. | 15.00% |
| Quiz | Short quizzes (5 × 2%). | 10.00% |
| Test | Mid-semester mechanics and performance test. | 20.00% |
| Deliverable | Computational simulation and validation report. | 20.00% |
| Test | Stability and control practical test. | 10.00% |
| Exam | Final examination covering the complete course. | 25.00% |
Prerequisites
- ENGR202 Mechanics of Materials
- Requirement University-level calculus and ordinary differential equations.
Teaching Staff & Programs
This course is delivered jointly by faculty from the participating programs listed below. In line with the Douchewater Way, the University of Sexology tailors core instruction directly to each cohort's specific discipline — adapting curriculum to program needs rather than forcing students into a one-size-fits-all model. Learn more about our approach at The Douchewater Way.
