Computer design
The design phase is largely theoretical. Drawing upon
the general fund of aeronautical knowledge and their own
preliminary research, scientific and engineering
specialists produce a mathematical model of an airplane
that they think will meet all of the project sponsor's
specifications. The team's primary tool is the
electronic computer, used in a variety of ways.
It provides rapid and accurate answers to the millions
of mathematical calculations required. It stores in its
memory banks the design input fed into it and creates an
electronic image of the airplane. Coupled with an
automatic plotter, it displays on a screen pictures of
the complete airplane or any section of it, such as the
wing, flaps, tail section, or nacelles, affording the
team a visual presentation of current analysis.
Programmed with atmospheric data, it can "fly"
the hypothetical airplane and report to the team the
aerodynamic response of the design to any condition of
flight, from takeoff to landing, from straight-and-level
cruise to combat manoeuvres. Through a lengthy series of
such simulated flights, the team refines its design,
until the electronic airplane meets or exceeds all
specifications.
|