Introduction

Abstract

A brief but general review of Aerodynamics, starting from the basic definitions including the steady and unsteady aerodynamics notions are introduced. The famous Kutta–Joukowski theorem and as its consequence, the sectional lift coefficient is presented. After introducing the reduced frequency concept, four different types of aerodynamics; i) unsteady, ii) quasi-unsteady, iii) quasi-steady, and iv) steady aerodynamics are defined utilizing the Theodorsen function for a plunging flat plate. Then steady lift coefficient and the induced drag coefficient for a finite elliptical wing are given. Compressible steady and unsteady flows past two and three dimensional lifting surface are given from subsonic to supersonic flow range. The flow past slender bodies is briefly introduced to predict the stability derivatives of the missile like configurations. Hypersonic flows past blunt bodies are examined via Newtonian impact theory and piston theory is introduced for the hypersonic flows past thin surfaces. For the basis of modern subjects, the leading edge suction analogy is presented to analyze vortex lift generated by the leading edge separation for the low aspect ratio delta wings at high angle of attacks. The lateral stability considerations of vortical flows at higher angle of attacks lead us to observe the wing-rock phenomenon because of asymmetric vortex shedding from delta wings. Further angle of attack increase causes vortex bursting where the lift is no longer sustained. Finally, flapping wing aerodynamics is presented for the ornithopter technology of recent years applied to design and manufacture small aerial vehicles which are recently called Micro Air Vehicles, MAVs.