Aerial Vehicles Classifications & Definitions

Question 1

Which are the two main categories of airborne vehicles, and what defines them?

Answer 1

Lighter than air: natural buoyancy

Hevier than air (aerodynes): self-generated aerodynamic forces such as by lifting surfaces or engine thrust

Question 2

Mention some classification properties for airplanes

Answer 2

• Legislative
• Operators
• Mode of operation
• Technical properties like range, weight, propulsion technology, TO-landing methods, cruise velocity etc

Question 3

What are the main functions for an airplane?

Answer 3

• Accommodate pax and payload
• Generate life
• Generate thrust

Question 4

What are the main inputs for an airplane to enable the main functions?

Answer 4

• Fuel

- Payload

Question 5

What are the main outputs from the airplane main functions?

Answer 5

• Emissions

- Payload at point B

Question 6

Mention som principal factors that has significant impact on an airplane design

Answer 6

• Air temperature and pressure
• Wing/gust/disturbance velocities
• Reynolds number
• Mach number
• Flight altitude
• Vehicle speed