Master thesis assignment: Tilt-rotor-wing aerodynamic modelling for aeroelastic analysis

Tilt-rotor aircraft offer a significant advantage over conventional helicopters in terms of cruise speed and efficiency. NLR is currently preparing a wind tunnel test of a tilt-rotor-wing configuration. The focus of the wind tunnel test is aeroelastic stability (i.e. flutter and limit-cycle oscillations). The goal of this test is to gather data for validation of comprehensive analysis tools. To assist the aeroelastic wind tunnel model design & development, simulations with a comprehensive rotorcraft modelling software are performed as well.

The comprehensive modelling software that is used for these investigations offers various methods to model the aerodynamics of the tilt-rotor-wing model. You will investigate what kind of aerodynamic modelling is most suited with regards to aeroelastic analysis. To do so, you will perform a literature study and then evaluate various aerodynamic models, for primarily the wing and nacelle, ranging from low to mid-fidelity. Furthermore, CFD simulations of the nacelle shall be performed, starting from an existing grid, to obtain inputs for the low-fidelity model. You will compare the results of the various aerodynamic modelling approaches and assess their effect on aeroelastic stability predictions as well as compare their computational cost.

Study into low to mid-fidelity aerodynamic modelling approaches for tilt-rotor aeroelastic analysis. CFD analysis of part of the tilt-rotor-wing model.

9 months, starting date as soon as possible/upon agreement.

•            Master student in Aerospace Engineering;

•            Solid aerodynamic theoretical knowledge;

•            Interest in rotary wing applications;

•            Good programming skills (MATLAB, Python);

•            Experience with CFD beneficial;

•            Knowledge of aeroelasticity beneficial;

•            Structured way of working;

•            Strong analytical and problem solving skills;

•            Critical attitude;

Royal NLR has been a knowledge organization with the will and ambition to innovate for over 100 years. Based on that motivation, we make the world of aviation and space travel safer, more sustainable, more efficient and effective and stand for groundbreaking innovations. We employ more than 1000 passionate professionals, from aircraft engineers to psychologists and from mathematicians to application experts. NLR stands for an inclusive and diverse organization where everyone feels welcome, safe, valued and respected.

Feel free to contact Anouk van Rooij (Anouk.van.Rooij@nlr.nl), +31 88 511 3299.

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Nice! We look forward to get to know more about you. Please send you CV and cover letter via the “apply” button.

A positive VOG screening is necessary for this position.