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151-0368-00L 4 Credits MSC D-ITET , D-MAVT , D-ERDW , D-PHYS
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Aeroelasticity

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Marcello Righi
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-06-01 11:31:22

Abstract

Introduction to the basics and into the methods of Aeroelasticity. An overview of the main static and dynamic phenomena arising from the interaction between structural and aerodynamic loads.

Objective

The course will provide a basic physical understanding of flow-structure interaction focused on lifting bodies such as wings. You will get to know the most important phenomena in the static and dynamic aeroelasticity, as well as a presentation of the most relevant analytical and numerical prediction methods.

Content

Introduction to steady and unsteady thin airfoil theory, extension to three dimension wing aerodynamics, strip theory, overview of numerical methods available (panel methods, CFD). Introduction to unsteady aerodynamics (theory): Theodorsen and Wagner functions. Unsteady aerodynamics observed from numerical experiments (CFD). Generation of simplified mathematical models. Presentation of steady aeroelasticity: equations of equilibrium for the typical section, aeroelastic deformation, effectiveness of the aeroelastic system, stability (definition), divergence condition, role played by a control surface, control effectiveness, sweep angle, aeroelastic tailoring of bending-torsion coupling. Ritz model to model beams, use of FEM, modal condensation, choice of generalized coordinates. Presentation of dynamic aeroelasticity: assessment of dynamic aeroelastic response of simple systems. Flutter kinematics (bending-twisting). Dynamic response of a simplified wing. Numerical aeroelasticity (Test Cases extracted from the latest AIAA Aeroelastic Prediction Workshops). Generation of Reduced Order Models from CFD data (in some cases though Machine Learning). Aeroelasticity of modern aircraft: assessment of the effects induced by the control surfaces and control systems (Aeroservoelasticity), active controlled aircraft, flutter-suppression systems, certification (EASA, FAA). Planning and execution of Wind Tunnel experiments with aeroelastic models. Live-execution of an experiment in the WT of the ETH. Brief presentation of phenomena like Limit-Cycle Oscillations (LCO) and panel flutter.

Resources

Lecture Notes

A script in English language is available.

Literature

Bispilnghoff Ashley, Aeroelasticity Abbott, Theory of Wing sections, Y. C. Fung, An Introduction to the Theory of Aeroelasticity, Dover Phoenix Editions.

Learning Materials (Links)

General Information

Language
English
Levels
MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
session examination
Mode
written 120 minutes
Aids
Skript, sonstige in der Vorlesung ausgeteilte Dokumentation (inkl. Moodle), persönliche Notizen.Script, additional material made available during classes and over Moodle, personal notes.

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Aeroelasticity
  • Thu 10:15-12:00 (LFW C 5)
2 h weekly
exercise Aeroelasticity
  • Thu 12:15-13:00 (LFW C 5)
1 h weekly

Offered In