This module reinforces your prior knowledge of statics, materials and dynamics and introduces topics of particular relevance to aerospace studies. The module includes further work on the analysis of beams, materials used in aerospace such as composites and develops the students understanding of vibration theory as well as application of dynamics of particles and rigid bodies in aerospace. Topics such as Bredt-Batho theory and aircraft dynamic performance and stability and Finite Element application in static and dynamic analysis of structures are also introduced. The module is primarily delivered through interactive lectures and practical laboratory sessions and is supported by tutorials, where students have to practise using problem sets. Course materials are available via VLE where appropriate.
On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
This module is delivered through a variety of lectures, seminars and practical laboratory sessions. Lectures are designed to introduce students to the key features of each topic and to lay the preparatory ground for the application of knowledge to problem solving. The practical laboratory sessions provide students with an environment to develop and refine practical skills and to develop their understanding through the application of knowledge to the practical environment. The computing workshops allow students to apply their knowledge of FEA acquired in the lectures and assigned reading and the tutorials provide support to ensure students are able to apply the theoretical knowledge they have acquired is solving the assigned problem sets
A significant element of this module is independent guided learning and a rough breakdown of how this time will be spent is given in the table below. Students will be issued with structured problem sets including answers at the beginning of the module. They will also be issued with an indicative set of dates by which each should be completed. This is similar to the approach used for level 4 modules, but at level 5 students are expected to monitor their own progress and seek help as required. Personal tutors are available to advise students on finding support, but will not meet their tutees as frequently as the previous year.
| Definitive UNISTATS Category | Indicative Description | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Scheduled learning and teaching | 33 two hour keynote and interactive lectures 11 two hour computer workshops 3 practical laboratory sessions of 2 hours each 11 two hour tutorial sessions | 66 22 6 22 |
| Guided independent study | Independent pre-reading and review of lectures (50 hrs) Problem sets (80 hrs) Test and Exam preparation and revision (34 hrs) Writing up lab reports (20 hrs) | 184 |
| Total (number of credits x 10) | 300 | |
Summative assessment is through a portfolio of laboratory reports worth 30% (4 reports), a portfolio of 2 in-course test designed to test student's engagement with the underpinning knowledge associated with the module worth 20% and a three hour end of module examination worth 50% which will require students to answer 4 extended questions. Formative assessments are used to provide feed forward for the summative assessments.
| Learning Outcome | Assessment Strategy |
|---|---|
| 1. Analyse problems related to direct stress utilising buckling analysis and asymmetric sections. | Examination and in-course assessment. |
| 2. Determine flexural and torsional shear stress distributions thin-walled sections typically found in aerospace structures. | Examination and in-course assessment. |
| 3. Derive and solve mathematical models for vibratory systems with one and more degree of freedom. | Examination and in-course assessment. |
| 4. Describe and analyse problems related to the performance, stability and control of aircraft. | Examination and in-course assessment. |
| 5. Measure strain, deflection and vibrations in components, analyse the results and write technical | Submission of two laboratory reports. |
| 6. Use finite element modelling (FEM) to design and optimise structures including composite structures | Submission of a design report. |
| Description of Assessment | Definitive UNISTATS Categories | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Portfolio of in-class tests (2 tests worth 10% each) | Written exam | 20% |
| Portfolio of lab reports (2 reports worth 5% and 2 worth 10%) | Coursework | 30% |
| Three hour end of module examination | Written exam | 50% |
| Total (to equal 100%) | 100% | |
It IS NOT a requirement that any element of assessment is passed separately in order to achieve an overall pass for the module.