The course provides an introduction to the modelling of the dynamics of air vehicles for the purpose of simulation, with an emphasis on fixed-wing aircraft.

The numerical methods behind the simulation of air vehicle dynamics are explained. A number of suitable computational tools are introduced for their simulation and for the visualisation of the aircraft behaviour. Requirements for model testing, verification and validation are introduced.

The process of building simulation models is described and demonstrated through example and computer exercises. A number of analytical tools are introduced including trimming and linearisation. The material is supported by examples and hands-on experience with the computational tools.

If the number of students are sufficient, a flight experience on our Saab340B can be arranged. 

At a glance

  • Dates
    • 13 - 17 Jan 2025
  • Duration5 days
  • LocationCranfield campus
  • Cost£1285.  The course fee includes refreshments and lunch during the day. Accommodation is not included and must be booked separately. Concessions available

What you will learn

After completing one week of the course, you will have gained proficiency in modelling a representative aircraft (with real-time capabilities) within the SIMULINK environment. Your proficiency will be at a sufficient fidelity level, making it suitable for students studying control design and handling qualities.

The hallmark of my course is its emphasis on both Practice, Physics and Mathematics. Participants will gain a deep understanding of flight physics as it relates to modelling and simulation, complemented by a robust comprehension of the mathematical aspects. More than just theoretical knowledge, the course will provide practical insights into building real-time simulation capability models and their implementation in flight simulators, both at a local network and network simulation level.

Additionally, participants will have access to our fixed-wing aircraft model dataset and real flight test data from the Saab 340B.

If you are interested in this course and would like more information, please feel free to contact us.

Core content

  • Introduction to mathematical modelling and simulation.
  • Systems of nonlinear ODEs (MATLAB and SIMULINK).
  • Equilibrium, linearization, and stability.
  • Numerical and computational tools (10 hours).
  • Model building, testing, validation, and management.
  • Trimming and numerical linearization.
  • Simulation setup and real-time simulation capabilities.
  • Experiments on the Future Flight Simulation.
  • Who should attend

    The course will be of benefit to aeronautical, control and simulation engineers involved in design, test and certification of stability augmentation, flight control and autopilots for fixed wing and other aircraft.

    Speakers

    Dr Linghai Lu has extensive decades-long experience in modelling and simulation in the rotor-wing sector with platforms like PUMA, Bo105, Bell412, AW109, XV15, and eVTOL types – including the Generic Lilium Style, ASTON Martin Volante, among others. Dr Li plans to integrate elements of this expertise into the course content.

    Concessions

    20% discount for Cranfield Alumni. 
    10% discount when registering 3 or more delegates, from the same organisation at the same time.  

    Accommodation fees are not included in the discount scheme. Please ask about our discount scheme at time of booking.

    Accommodation options and prices

    This course is non-residential. If you would like to book accommodation on campus, please contact Mitchell Hall or Cranfield Management Development Centre directly. Further information about our on campus accommodation can be found here.  Alternatively you may wish to make your own arrangements at a nearby hotel. 

    Location and travel

    Cranfield University is situated in Bedfordshire close to the border with Buckinghamshire. The University is located almost midway between the towns of Bedford and Milton Keynes and is conveniently situated between junctions 13 and 14 of the M1.

    London Luton, Stansted and Heathrow airports are 30, 90 and 90 minutes respectively by car, offering superb connections to and from just about anywhere in the world. 

    For further location and travel details

    Location address

    Cranfield University
    College Road
    Cranfield
    Bedford 
    MK43 0AL

    How to apply

    To apply for this course please use the online application form.

    Read our Professional development (CPD) booking conditions.