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

Nederlands Lucht- en Ruimtevaartcentrum

Amsterdam
Intern
0-2 years experience
On-site

Key Skills

Aerodynamic Modelling
Aeroelastic Analysis
Rotorcraft Aerodynamics
Flutter Analysis
Limit-Cycle Oscillation Analysis
Computational Fluid Dynamics
MATLAB
Python
Literature Review
Analytical Problem Solving
Structured Working

Job Description

Job Description What will you be doing? 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. Result Study into low to mid-fidelity aerodynamic modelling approaches for tilt-rotor aeroelastic analysis. CFD analysis of part of the tilt-rotor-wing model. Duration of the internship? 9 months, starting date as soon as possible/upon agreement. What do we expect from you? 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; What do we offer you? A flexible, high-tech work environment and fun colleagues; A team where you get the chance to develop and learn new skills; A challenging internship; An internship allowance; About NLR 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. Would you like to know more about your future internship? Feel free to contact Anouk van Rooij ( [email protected] ), +31 88 511 3299. Do not forget to take a look at our socials such as our YouTube channel! Want to apply? 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.

Core Responsibilities

Review literature and evaluate low- to mid-fidelity aerodynamic models for the wing and nacelle of a tilt-rotor-wing configuration. Perform nacelle CFD simulations, compare modelling approaches and computational costs, and assess their effects on aeroelastic stability predictions.

Requirements

Applicants must be master's students in Aerospace Engineering with solid theoretical knowledge of aerodynamics and an interest in rotary-wing applications. Good MATLAB and Python programming skills are expected; CFD experience and aeroelasticity knowledge are beneficial, along with structured working habits and strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Benefits

  • Flexible Work Environment
  • Learning and Development Opportunities
  • Internship Allowance

About Nederlands Lucht- en Ruimtevaartcentrum

Industry: Aviation & Aerospace

Company size: 501-1,000 employees

Welcome to NLR - Royal Netherlands Aerospace Centre. Our overall mission is making air operations and space exploration safer, more sustainable and more efficient. NLR’s multidisciplinary approach focuses on developing new and cost effective technologies for aviation and space, from design support to production technology and MRO (Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul). With its unique expertise and state of the art facilities NLR is bridging the gap between research and application. NLR covers the whole RDT&E (Research, Development, Test & Evaluation) range, including all the essential phases in research, from validation, verification and qualification to evaluation. By doing so, NLR contributes to the innovative and competitive strength of government and industry, in the Netherlands and abroad. NLR employs a staff of approx. 900 at our offices in Amsterdam and Marknesse. The company realizes an annual turnover of approx. 88 million euro.

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