Computational Aerodynamics

Module overview

This module is concerned with the physical modelling and numerical methods required for calculations of aerodynamic forces and moments on moving objects. It is not exclusively a package-based computational fluid dynamics module. Instead, it focuses on matching a numerical solution methodology to the flow phenomena that are present in fluid dynamics applications. The methods will include laminar and turbulent boundary layer calculations, instability analysis and models for transition to turbulence. Finite difference methods will be discussed in detail, including high order and compact schemes with numerical analysis of accuracy, stability and consistency, and compared to spectral methods. Turbulence models will be derived and contrasted with scale-resolving approaches such as large eddy simulations, where post-processing issues will be discussed. The module will include aerodynamic case studies and coursework exercises for students.

Linked modules

Pre-requisite: SESA3033 or FEEG6005

Aims and Objectives

Learning Outcomes

Full CEng Programme Level Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

Students are assessed on two pieces of coursework, one group and one individual, each requiring a non-technical summary and technical report. All students also contribute to an assessed group presentation and submit a self-assessment of the effectiveness of the oral presentation.
Student learn to apply of numerical analysis and flow physics knowledge to computational aerodynamics problems, assessed in the coursework exercises and by examination. Students are assessed on their understanding of the state-of-the art of CFD packages as well as the potential for increased use of scale-resolving simulations as computational power increases.
In the assessed individual coursework exercise students are required to develop a solution of a boundary layer flow problem, starting from fundamentals of the numerical method, including coding, validation and assessment of the limitations of the methodology such as the modelling of transition and turbulence.
Students are assessed on a group exercise requiring teamwork, in which they use computational fluid dynamics software packages to study a high-speed aerodynamics problem, including an assessment of the effectiveness of team working.
In the assessed group coursework exercise, students compare different software packages, selecting numerical methods, boundary conditions and grids to provide a solution of a complex aerodynamics problem and are expected to discuss the limitations of the various choices.

Knowledge and Understanding

Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:

Comprehensive knowledge and understanding of a range of numerical methods, physical models and analysis techniques relevant to aerodynamic design Understand key computational aerodynamic principles and be able to apply them for critical analysis of aerodynamic design Ability to extract and evaluate pertinent data from simulations using alternative approaches and to apply data analysis techniques to unfamiliar problems Demonstrate awareness of developing technologies related to aerodynamic flow simulation and to use fundamental knowledge to investigate these technologies Understand the basic principles of software engineering applied to aerodynamics calculations and be able to quantify the errors Demonstrate awareness of commercial constraints in the application of aerodynamic simulation techniques Understand software-related issues of group working

Transferable and Generic Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

Plan self-learning to improve performance through a personal programme of work Work in groups on software-related projects

Learning and Teaching

Teaching and learning methods

Teaching methods include 24 lectures using a mix of slides, blackboard derivations, and class demonstrations of codes. A further 18 hours of supervised computer laboratories are provided, where students work on coursework exercises. Panopto recordings of the lectures along with the slide deck will be made available on Blackboard wherever possible. Further learning activities include directed reading and individual problem solving.

Study time
Type	Hours
Wider reading or practice	24
Revision	44
Lecture	24
Completion of assessment task	40
Practical classes and workshops	18
Total study time	150

Assessment

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.

Breakdown
Method	Percentage contribution
Final Assessment	50%
Continuous Assessment	50%

Repeat Information

Repeat type: Internal & External