Module Title:Conceptual Design
Language of Instruction:English
Credits: 5
NFQ Level:8
Module Delivered In 1 programme(s)
Teaching & Learning Strategies: The module will be delivered with a blend of lectures and problem based learning through tutorials and software labs. Instructional Methodology - Lectures, Quizzes, Various media platforms, Group work
Module Aim: The aim of the module is to provide learners with the techniques and knowledge required to perform a conceptual design of a light aircraft. Conceptual design techniques will be presented on aerodynamics, structures, performance, and propulsion systems. Students have to work together in a virtual industrial environment and carry out individual tasks upon which the whole team is dependent.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner should be able to:
LO1 Apply conceptual design techniques to develop a series of conceptual designs and iterate to a design solution based on a specification.
LO2 Work effectively as a team member in the planning, managing, organising and completion of tasks among a group of peers.
LO3 Assess ethical issues in relation to group work and sustainability of the final design.
LO4 Evaluate aircraft designs using software applications and numerical analysis.
LO5 Resolve conflicting issues within a team dynamic, in both leadership and specialist positions.
Pre-requisite learning
Module Recommendations

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is recommended before enrolment in this module.
No recommendations listed
Incompatible Modules
These are modules which have learning outcomes that are too similar to the learning outcomes of this module.
No incompatible modules listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Requirements
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is mandatory before enrolment in this module is allowed.
No requirements listed
 

Module Content & Assessment

Indicative Content
Design Process
- Introduction - Phases of Aircraft Design - Conceptual Design Process
Initial Sizing
- Takeoff Weight - Empty Weight and Fuel Fraction - Powerplant Sizing - Geometry Sizing - Control Surface Sizing
Conceptual Layout
- Vertical Wing Location - Wing Configuration, Dihedral, Structural - Cabin Configuration - Propeller Configuration - Empennage Configuration - Landing Gear Configuration
Weights Analysis
- Initial Weight Analysis Methods - Detailed Weight Analysis Methods - Statistical Weight Analysis Methods - Direct Weight Analysis Methods
Cost Analysis
- Elements of Life-Cycle Cost - Sustainability, End of Life Considerations - Production, Operation and Maintenance Costs
Performance and Aerodynamics
- Aerofoil Geometries - Forces and Moments - High Lift Devices - Wingtip Design - Take-off - Climb - Cruise - Range Analysis - Descent - Landing
Project Brief
Initially, the team will be presented with a conceptual design and a budget. The team will have to produce a: - Design Specification - Objectives - Literature search - Project management plan - Address any ethical issues in relation to the design - Assess the sustainability of the design. The supervisor will discuss the assessment plan with the team to ensure a clear understanding
Team structure
Team members will be assigned responsibilities for the following key areas: Team leader ( rotating position between team members) Propulsion system Aerodynamics Control system Software / Hardware design System Integration Testing Quality control / budget costs
Presentation
The student will be required to make presentations on the progress of their project. A final presentation by the team or member on the completed design
Thesis
Formal report on the final project
Assessment Breakdown%
Continuous Assessment60.00%
Project40.00%
Continuous Assessment
Assessment Type Assessment Description Outcome addressed % of total Assessment Date
Examination In-class assessment, written or online 1,4 20.00 Week 7
Examination Analysis and interpretation of design data assessment 1,3,4 40.00 Week 12
Project
Assessment Type Assessment Description Outcome addressed % of total Assessment Date
Project The final report is assessed on: Conducting a literature survey using available resources. Carrying out a project plan. Initial concept designs. Evaluating design and iterating through out the process to meet the specification. Effort and participation as a team, design innovation and skill in report writing. 1,2,3,4,5 40.00 n/a
No Practical
No End of Module Formal Examination

SETU Carlow Campus reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment

 

Module Workload

Workload: Full Time
Workload Type Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload
Lecture 12 Weeks per Stage 2.00
Laboratory 12 Weeks per Stage 2.00
Independent Learning Time 15 Weeks per Stage 5.13
Total Hours 125.00
 

Module Delivered In

Programme Code Programme Semester Delivery
CW_EEAER_B Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Aerospace Engineering 7 Mandatory