The Collaborative Research Center SFB 401: Flow Modulation and Fluid-Structure Interaction at Airplane Wings investigates numerically and experimentally fundamental problems of very high capacity aircraft having large elastic wings. This issue summarizes the findings of the 12-year research program at RWTH Aachen University which was funded by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) from 1997 through 2008. The research program covered the following three main topics of large transport aircraft: (i) Model flow, wakes, and vortices of airplanes in high-lift-configuration, (ii) Numerical tools for large scale adaptive flow simulation based on multiscale analysis and a parametric mapping concept for grid generation, and (iii) Validated computational design tools based on direct aeroelastic simulation with reduced structural models.
Fluid mechanical aspects of separated and vortical flow in aircraft wing aerodynamics are treated. The focus is on two wing classes: (1) large aspect-ratio wings and (2) small aspect-ratio delta-type wings. Aerodynamic design issues in general are not dealt with. Discrete numerical simulation methods play a progressively larger role in aircraft design and development. Accordingly, in the introduction to the book the different mathematical models are considered, which underlie the aerodynamic computation methods (panel methods, RANS and scale-resolving methods). Special methods are the Euler methods, which as rather inexpensive methods embrace compressibility effects and also permit to describe lifting-wing flow. The concept of the kinematically active and inactive vorticity content of shear layers gives insight into many flow phenomena, but also, with the second break of symmetry---the first one is due to the Kutta condition---an explanation of lifting-wing flow fields. The prerequisite is an extended definition of separation: “flow-off separation” at sharp trailing edges of class (1) wings and at sharp leading edges of class (2) wings. The vorticity-content concept, with a compatibility condition for flow-off separation at sharp edges, permits to understand the properties of the evolving trailing vortex layer and the resulting pair of trailing vortices of class (1) wings. The concept also shows that Euler methods at sharp delta or strake leading edges of class (2) wings can give reliable results. Three main topics are treated: 1) Basic Principles are considered first: boundary-layer flow, vortex theory, the vorticity content of shear layers, Euler solutions for lifting wings, the Kutta condition in reality and the topology of skin-friction and velocity fields. 2) Unit Problems treat isolated flow phenomena of the two wing classes. Capabilities of panel and Euler methods are investigated. One Unit Problem is the flow past the wing of the NASA Common Research Model. Other Unit Problems concern the lee-side vortex system appearing at the Vortex-Flow Experiment 1 and 2 sharp- and blunt-edged delta configurations, at a delta wing with partly round leading edges, and also at the Blunt Delta Wing at hypersonic speed. 3) Selected Flow Problems of the two wing classes. In short sections practical design problems are discussed. The treatment of flow past fuselages, although desirable, was not possible in the frame of this book.
Chapter 1: Introduction to Flying offers a brief history of flight, introduces the history and role of the FAA in civil aviation, FAA Regulations and standards, government references and publications, eligibility for pilot certificates, available routes to flight instructions, the role of the Certificated Flight Instructor (FI) and Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) in flight training, and Practical Test Standards (PTS). Chapter 2: Aircraft Structure An aircraft is a device that is used, or intended to be used, for flight, according to the current Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14CFR) Part I. This chapter provides a brief introduction to the structure of aircraft and uses an airplane for most illustrations. Light Sport Aircraft (LSA), such as wight-shift control, balloon, glider, powered parachute, and gyroplane have their own handbooks to include detailed information regarding aerodynamics and control. Chapter 3: Principles of Flight This chapter examines the fundamental physical laws governing the forces acting on an aircraft in flight, and what effect these natural laws and forces have on the performance characteristics of aircraft. To control an aircraft, be it an airplane, helicopter, glider, or balloon, the pilot must understand the principles involved and learn to use or counteract these natural forces. Chapter 4 Aerodynamics of Flight This chapter discusses the aerodynamics of flight – how design, weight, load factors, and gravity affect an aircraft during flight maneuvers. The four forces acting on an aircraft in straight-and-level, unaccelerated flight are thrust, drag, lift, and weight. Chapter 5 Flight Controls This chapter focuses on the flight control systems a pilot uses to control the forces of flight, and the aircraft’s direction and attitude. It should be noted that flight control systems and characteristics can vary greatly depending on the type of aircraft flown. The most basic flight control system designs are mechanical and date to early aircraft. They operate with a collection of mechanical parts such as rods, cables, pulleys, and sometimes chains to transmit the forces of the flight deck controls to the control surfaces. Chapter 6 Aircraft Systems This chapter covers the primary systems found on most aircraft. These include the engine, propeller, induction, ignition, as well as the fuel, lubrication, cooling, electrical , landing gear, and environmental control systems. Chapter 7 Flight Instruments This chapter addresses the pitot-static system and associated instruments, the vacuum system and related instruments, gyroscopic instruments, and the magnetic compass. When a pilot understands how each instrument works and recognizes when an instrument is malfunctioning , he or she can safely utilize the instruments to their fullest potential. Chapter 8 Flight Manuals and Other Documents The chapter covers airplane flight manuals (AFM), the pilot’s operating handbook (POH), and aircraft documents pertaining to ownership, airworthiness, maintenance, and operations with inoperative equipment. Knowledge of these required documents and manuals is essential for a pilot to conduct a safe flight. Chapter 9 Weight and Balance Compliance with the weight and balance limits of any aircraft is critical to flight safety. Operating above the maximum weight limitation compromises the structural integrity of an aircraft and adversely affects its performance. Operations with the center of gravity (CG ) outside the approved limits results in control difficulty. Chapter 10 Aircraft Performance This chapter discusses the factors that affect aircraft performance which include the aircraft weight, atmospheric conditions, runway environment, and the fundamental physical laws governing the forces acting on an aircraft. Chapter 11 Weather Theory This chapter explains basic weather theory and offers pilots background knowledge of weather principles. It is designed to help them gain a good understanding of how weather affects daily flying activities. Understanding the theories behind weather helps a pilot make sound weather decisions based on reports and forecasts obtained from a Flight Service Station (FSS) weather specialist and other aviation weather services. Be it a local flight or a long cross-country flight, decisions based on weather can dramatically affect the safety of the flight. Chapter 12 Aviation Weather Services In aviation, weather service is a combined effort of the National Weather Service (NWS), Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Defense, DOD), other aviation groups and individuals. While weather forecasts are not 100 percent accurate, meteorologists, through careful scientific study and computer modeling, have the ability to predict weather patterns, trends, and characteristics with increasing accuracy. These reports and forecasts enable pilots to make informed decisions regarding weather and flight safety before and during a flight. Chapter 13 Airport Operations This chapter focuses on airport operations both in the air and on the surface. By adhering to established procedures, both airport operations and safety are enhanced. Chapter 14 Airspace This chapter introduces the various classifications of airspace and provides information on the requirements to operate in such airspace. For further information, consult the AIM and 14 CFR parts 71, 73, and 91. Chapter 15 Navigation This chapter provides an introduction to cross-country flying under visual flight rules (VFR). It contains practical information for planning and executing cross-country flights for the beginning pilot. Chapter 16 Aeromedcial Factors It is important for a pilot to be aware of the mental and physical standards required for the type of flying done. This chapter provides information on medical certification and on a variety of aeromedical factors related to flight activities. Chapter 17 Aeronautical Decision-Making This chapter focuses on helping the pilot improve his or her ADM skills with the goal of mitigating the risk factors associated with flight in both classic and automated aircraft. In the end, the discussion is not so much about aircraft, but about the people who fly them. Includes Appendix with tables of information, a glossary and an index.
A review is made of the present state of our knowledge of the vortex wakes of conventional aircraft. Included are discussions of wake rollup, geometry, instability, and turbulent aging. In the light of these discussions, a brief review is made of the persistence of vortices in the atmosphere, and design techniques which might be used to minimize wake hazard are considered.
Used extensively as a reference source for the FAA Knowledge Exams, this resource includes basic knowledge that is essential for all pilots, from beginning students to those pursuing advanced pilot certificates. This updated guide covers a wide array of fundamental subjects, including principles of flight, aircraft and engine structures, charts and graphs, performance calculations, weather theory, reports, forecasts, and flight manuals. Required reading for pilots for more than 25 years and formerly published as an Advisory Circular (AC 61-23C), this new edition is now listed as an official FAA Handbook.
Pilot's Encyclopedia of Aeronautical Knowledge, created by the Federal Aviation Administration, is the official reference manual for pilots at all levels. An indispensable and invaluable encyclopedia, it deals with all aspects of aeronautical information. Chapters include: aircraft structure, principles of aerodynamics, flight controls, aircraft systems, and flight instruments. Flight manuals and documentation are also covered, as is specialized information on such matters as weight and balance, aircraft performance, weather, navigation, airport operations, aeromedical factors, and decision-making while flying. A detailed index and full glossary make this book easy to navigate and useful in quick reference situations.
This edition of this this flight stability and controls guide features an unintimidating math level, full coverage of terminology, and expanded discussions of classical to modern control theory and autopilot designs. Extensive examples, problems, and historical notes, make this concise book a vital addition to the engineer's library.
