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

NLR; Amsterdam; Hybrid; EUR 12,000 - 16,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Internship allowance

Hybrid work environment

Job summary

NLR is seeking a Master student in Aerospace Engineering for a tilt-rotor-wing aerodynamic modelling internship in Amsterdam. You will perform literature studies and assess aeroelastic modelling approaches, focusing on aeroelastic stability predictions and wind tunnel test preparations.

Proficiency in MATLAB and Python and interest in rotorcraft applications are essential. The role includes CFD simulations of the nacelle, evaluation of modelling methods from low to mid-fidelity, and analysis of

Qualifications

• Master student in Aerospace Engineering required.
• Solid aerodynamic theoretical knowledge expected.
• Good programming skills in MATLAB and Python required.

Responsibilities

• Perform literature study on aeroelastic modelling approaches for tilt-rotor wings.
• Evaluate aerodynamic models from low to mid-fidelity for aeroelastic analysis.
• Run CFD simulations of the nacelle and compare results with low-fidelity models.

Skills

Matlab

Python

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Structured work approach

Critical thinking

Education

Master's student in Aerospace Engineering

Tools

CFD

CFD software

Job description

Master thesis assignment: Tilt-rotor-wing aerodynamic modelling for aeroelastic analysis — Hybrid, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, Netherlands.

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

We employ more than 1000 passionate professionals, from aircraft engineers to psychologists and from mathematicians to application experts.

A positive VOG screening is necessary for this position.