Aerospace Engineering
MSc

Aircraft structures are characterised by their high strength to weight ratios - this is largely achieved by using monocoque and semi-monocoque thin walled components.

This module starts with a revision of torsion and shear flow and then explores the stress and shear flow distribution in loaded structures of increasing complexity. You examine the effects of loading on symmetrical beams and asymmetrical beams before turning your attention to more realistic aircraft type semi-monocoque structures.

The emphasis is on hand calculation techniques to ensure that you are able to sensibly interpret the results of finite element analyses that you conduct in the future on similar structures.

This module covers multiphase flow and computational fluid dynamics for various engineering applications, and incompressible and compressible flow applicable to flight of subsonic and supersonic aircraft.

In addition it includes a revision of the fundamental fluid flow and thermodynamic governing equations, introduction to CFD, multiphase flow, subsonic and supersonic around wings, flow through nozzles and diffusers, oblique shock waves and expansion waves, shock wave and boundary layer interaction.

The module content will be delivered by lectures, seminars and laboratory sessions. This will include a series of keynote lectures delivered by academic staff providing the core of the learning experience, supplemented by problem-solving seminars and IT-based laboratory sessions providing an opportunity to explore complex flows through the use of CFD codes.

You investigate an area of engineering and work independently to a level recognised to be at the forefront of the discipline. The topic can be in the form of a research project or a design project. Key skills in research and in knowledge application and creation will be developed through keynote lectures and self-managed independent study. You are required to demonstrate the capacity for a comprehensive and objective analysis, and for developing innovative and constructive proposals for the solution to the project topic.

This module provides practical experience of using commercially available finite element packages. The application of the method is demonstrated using a number of case studies. You are encouraged to use the technique as an extension of your standard text books in solving design and manufacturing problems.

This module elaborates the fundamental concepts of space mission analysis, spaceflight orbital mechanics and introduces trajectory design for planet-centred and interplanetary missions.

You start with a short review of the mission selection process. And you are introduced to the design and characterisation of planet-centred orbits and related orbit transfer manoeuvres.

The module investigates the mathematical modelling and analysis of orbital perturbation, Earth-bound and interplanetary trajectory design, gravity assist manoeuvres. You are introduced to concepts of space system theory applied to missions around the Lagrange’s points.

This module demonstrates how to benchmark an organisation and introduces you to the concepts of key performance indicators, total quality management (TQM), six sigma, total productive maintenance (TPM) and supply chain management. You learn the manufacturing assessment methodology based on data provided in a benchmarking case study. Topics covered in TQM, TPM, and supply chain management enable you to plan activities, which improve quality programme maintenance planning and supply chain integration for an organisation and move that organisation towards sustainable competitive advantage.

You will investigate how the role of the engineer is becoming more focused on serving society as well as industry and to recognise the impact of engineers’ decisions on society and the environment.

As engineers of the future, you will need to have a sustainable worldview, acknowledging international, cultural, and diversity issues in society. In addition, you will also be expected to solve complex problems with consideration for multi-perspective views, long-term effects, risk, and the impacts of decisions on society.

This module will examine the key topics surrounding sustainability in the context of engineering applications across a range of disciplines and key future challenges such as energy, transport, and construction.

The subjects will be taught through a combination of lectures and seminars. Lectures will develop key concepts and knowledge. Seminars will allow more focused examinations of important issues and approaches.