MAE2505 · Aerospace dynamics

Overview

This unit introduces the concepts of time, space, coordinate systems, particles, rigid bodies, forces, work, momentum and energy which form the basis of the field of aerospace engineering. Through a fundamental treatment of the kinetics and kinematics of systems of particles and rigid bodies, you will apply Newton's Law of Motion to solve practical aerospace engineering problems related to aircraft, spacecraft and their components. You will learn to solve problems involving curvilinear and relative motion, rotating coordinate systems, linear and angular momentum, and mechanical vibration. These concepts will then be applied to understanding the performance and stability of aircraft and rockets. The unit will conclude with an introduction to orbital mechanics and spaceflight.

Offerings

The Handbook publishes no offerings for this unit.

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

Continuous assessment: 40% Final assessment: 60% This unit contains a hurdle requirement that you must achieve to be able to pass the unit. You are required to achieve at least 45% in the total continuous assessment component and at least 45% in the final assessment component. The consequence of not achieving a hurdle requirement is a fail grade (NH) and a maximum mark of 45 for the unit.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

Learning outcomes

1. Construct solutions to aerospace problems and scenarios using free body diagrams and appropriate selection of coordinate systems and pertinent physical laws.
2. Derive mathematical expressions for the forces, energy and motion of particles and rigid bodies as applied to aircraft, spacecraft and their components.
3. Solve engineering problems involving the simple free and forced vibration of single mass systems.
4. Assess the performance and stability of aircraft using analytical and numerical methods.
5. Simulate the trajectory and attitude of spacecraft using analytical and numerical methods.

Workload

The minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of 3-6 hours of scheduled learning activities and 6-9 hours of independent study per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher-directed learning, peer-directed learning and online engagement. Independent study may include associated readings, assessment and preparation for scheduled activities.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.