Tech.university of Sofia
Civil Aviation Authority
Department's Location
BG language




Aviation Engineering in English

Description of the Courses



Mathematics I

The main topics concern: complex numbers, polynomials, matrices and determinants, rank of a matrix, inverse matrix, matrix equations, exact methods for solving systems of linear equations, coordinate systems, analytic geometry, linear spaces, linear dependence and independence, basis and dimension, eigenvalues and eigenvectors, vectors – dot product, vector product, outer product, equations of a plane in space, equations of a straight line, conics and quadrics, sequences and series, functions of one variable, inverse functions, limits, differentiation, derivatives, extremums.

Physics

The program is designed to include classical fields such as mechanics, thermophysics and fluids, electricity and magnetism, oscillations and mechanical waves, optics as well as basic knowledge in modern physics, such as elements of quantum mechanics and theory of relativity. The group tutorials examplify the delivered lectures with a number of examples closely related to the real practice for solving engineering problems. Laboratory exercises are designed to complement the theory presented in class and to help students to master basic physics concepts. The laboratory should develop basic skills and tools of experimental physics and data analysis.

Informatics I

The course is providing basic knowledge in development of algorithms, their programming using particular programming language and running and testing of the programmes under certain operation system. The structure and the main operational principles of the computer systems are given. The means and accuracy of information presentation are also considered. Some of the key classes of algorithms and data structures are studied. Skills for using basic office applications are gained as working with word processing application, creation of presentations, creation of diagrams and flow-charts, using macros. The main techniques of the structural approach of programming and their application using Visual Basic programming language are introduced.

Fundamentals of design

The main topics concern: Significance and role of process design and documentation; General requirements for design, drafting and preparation of technical documentation; Presentation of surfaces and objects, intersection of bodies and body section of the plane; Constructing the unfolding of the prismatic and rotary complete and truncated surfaces; Design and represent the details - shapes, views and sections views; Dimensioning drawings in parts, accuracy characteristics of size, linear and angular dimensions of details; Geometric tolerances; Roughness of surfaces; Create a drawing of the part in AutoCAD, techniques for creating projections, dimensioning and editing of geometric elements; Significance and use of CAD ​​systems for three dimensional modeling and implementation of technical documentation; Representation of part connections and transmissions - threaded joints, detachable and permanent joints; Assemblies of flat connections; Design of sheet materials and solid construction of the structural materials – SolidWorks / Inventor; Design documentation, reading and drawing detailing the general appearance, design and development of documentation with CAD systems.

Foreign language I

Some topics are directly connected with the profile of educated student from specialty AE. Teaching material is consistent with the specific requirements of the disciplines.

Mathematics II

To achieve the desired objectives the course covers appropriate topics of Mathematics for undergraduates in Engineering: Integral Calculus of one variable and applications; Power series; Fourier series; Introduction to ordinary differential equations; Laplace transforms; Multivariable calculus: partial differentiation, optimization problems, double integrals, curvilinear integrals, applications.

Mechanics I

The course includes: main axioms and laws of the Classical Mechanics. There are proofs and explanations of the basic theorems and rules of the Statics and Kinematics. Students acquire common knowledge about the methods and their application for solving problems in Mechanics.

Informatics II

The main topics concern: Excel basics; Creating, Recording and Playing macros; Introduction into VBA programming; VBA Integrated Development Environment (IDE); Execution of Excel Applications; VBA Programming Language; Common properties with Microsoft Visual Basic; Data types, Variables, and Constants; Arrays; Scope and Lifetime of the Variables; Functions and Subroutines; Built-in functions and statements; Passing Arguments to Procedures and Functions; Control Statements; Run-time error maintenance; Using Name Property; Excel Object Model; Creating Application into Excel; Excel Events; Menus and Toolbars; Built-in Dialogs and User-defined Dialogs; VBA Access to the Excel Object Model; Basic Objects, Methods, Properties, and Events; Application, Workbook, Worksheet, Range, Pivot table, Chart Objects Summary; Creating Sample Applications with Excel Object; Data Lists and Tables; Sorting and Filtering Data; etc.

Material science

The undergraduate course in Materials Science gives students a broad background in all classes of materials, including ferrous and nonferrous metals, polymers, ceramics and composites. The syllabus covers testing mechanical characteristics of steels, cast irons, light metals, mainly aluminium , titanium and copper alloys; analyzing of micro- and nanostructures and compare properties with same materials after heat treatment of ferrous, nonferrous and composite materials. The students learned how to introduce concepts of structure - properties relationships for engineering materials and how to apply them in engineering practice.

Foreign language II

Some topics are directly connected with the profile of educated student from specialty AE. Teaching material is consistent with the specific requirements of the disciplines.

Mechanics II

The course includes: main axioms and laws of the Classical Mechanics. There are proofs and explanations of the basic theorems and rules of the Statics and Kinematics. Students acquire common knowledge about the methods and their application for solving problems in Mechanics.

Strength of materials

The main topics concern: Area moments of inertia; Internal forces in beams and frames, diagrams; Axial loading; Normal stress, normal strain, stress–strain diagram, Hooke’s law; Design of axial loaded members. shearing stress, shearing strain, Hooke’s law; Pure bending - stresses, neutral axis, design of beams; Unsymmetric bending - stresses, neutral axis, design; Eccentric axial loading in a plane of symmetry- stresses, neutral axis, design; General case of eccentric axial loading, transformation of plane stress, principal stresses, maximum shearing stress; Transformation of plane strain; Generalized Hooke’s law; Finite element method; Yield criteria; Transverse loading, normal and shear stresses, design of beams for strength; Torsion and bending of shafts, design of shafts for strength; Castigliano’s theorem - deflections, statically indeterminate structures; Stability of columns, Euler's formula, design of columns under a centric load; Fatigue.

Fluid mechanics

Some subjects which are directly connected with the profile of educated student from specialty AE have been reviewed. Teaching material is consistence with the specific requirements of the disciplines. Special attention is focused on the basic solution of the reviewed problems and potential flows which will be used in next subjects. When some problems represent a special interest some partial solution are proposing.

Fundamentals of Electricity

The course includes: basic concepts and laws for linear DC and AC electric circuits, resonance phenomena, circuit theorems, electric circuits with mutual inductance, three-phase circuits, two-port networks, transient analysis in first order circuits, basics of nonlinear circuits and basics of electromagnetic field theory.

Foreign language III

Some topics are directly connected with the profile of educated student from specialty AE. Teaching material is consistent with the specific requirements of the disciplines.

Electronics and microprocessor systems

The main topics concern: Electronics (Introduction to Semiconductors, PN Junction Diodes, Bipolar Junction Transistors, Field Effect Transistors, Optoelectronic devices, Displays, Microwave vacuum devices), Digital technology (Basic terms and concept, Logic gates, Combinational logic circuits, Sequential logic circuits, Digital to analog and analog to digital converters), Microprocessor and microcontroller system designs.

Technical measurements

To give knowledge in metrology, analysis and estimation of the errors in measurement, metrological characteristics and application of measuring instruments. Principles of specification and standardization of measured objects’ parameters are discussed, as well as principles interchangeability and modern concepts in quality assurance. Students gain experience in use of measuring instruments and solving practical tasks during laboratory works.

Thermodynamics and heat transfer

Thermodynamic variables: equilibrium, the zeroth low of thermodynamics, temperature, the gas lows, ideal gas equation of state.
Energy: work, heat, the first low of thermodynamics, internal energy ,enthalpy.
Thermodynamical processes: basic thermodynamic processes, thermal capacity, power and refrigeration cycles, Carnot process, Carnot’s theorem, the thermodynamic temperature scale, entropy, second low of thermodynamics, reversible and irreversible processes, phase transitions, real gas equation of state, water steam, power cycles.
Heat transfer: radiation, convection, heat conduction, the Fourier heat equation, thermal protection, heat exchangers.

Control theory

The main topics concern: Systems and Control; Obtaining mathematical models of control systems; Mathematical models of linear control systems; Basic characteristics of linear control systems; Stability of linear continuous systems; System performance; Multivariable control systems; Design of linear continuous systems.

Machine design

The main topics concern: Design methodology; Design for static and for fatigue loading; Strength and failure analyses; Design of mechanical components and joints of common use such as: keys, splines, pins, rivets, threaded fasteners, press joints, welded joints, springs, bearings, couplings.

Foreign language IV

Some topics are directly connected with the profile of educated student from specialty AE. Teaching material is consistent with the specific requirements of the disciplines.

Aircraft aerodynamics

Basic items are: Fluid properties and fundamental of fluid mechanics. Flow kinematics and flow dynamics. Supersonic flows and the formation of shock waves, Prandtl-Meyer expansions and nozzle flow. Incompressible flow over airfoils and finite wings, aerodynamic characteristics of wings. Supersonic aerofoil section characteristics, supersonic wings. An introduction to transonic aerofoil and wing aerodynamics - area rule. Wing High Lift devices: flaps, slots, slats and flaperons. Drag induced devices, spoilers. Boundary Layer control. Flow around a body. Interference effects. Aircraft lift, drag polar and finesses. Pitching, yaw and roll moment. Ground effect. Propellers. Blade element theory, performance. Interference effects. Introduction to helicopter aerodynamics. Unsteady flow arround the airplane, airframe flexibility effects.

Radio fundamentals

The main topics concern: Basic knowledge on theory of information; Signals and systems; Parameters of signals; Parameters and harecteristics of systems; Frequency analysis of signals and systems; Amplify, modulation, demodulation, filtration, and coding of signals; Temporal and frequency analysis of signal processing; Digital systems; Basic knowledge on multichannel systems.

Aircraft structures

The main topics concern: General Information For Aircrafts, Aviation Materials, Fatigue, Aircraft Loads, Design Concepts For Aircraft Structures, Airworthiness Regulations, Structural Elements, Joints And Fittings, Wing Loads, Wing Structure, Stabilizers And Control Surfaces, Lift Devices And Control Surfaces, Fuselage, Landing Gears, Tires And Brakes, Engine Mounting, Aeroelasticity.

Air navigation I

Main topics of discipline are closely connected with the profile of the student’s specialization. Lectures are specified according with recommendations of the specialization “Aviation engineering”. Practical navigation is taken into consideration.

Elective course ** (List 1)

Hydraulics and pneumatics

Some subjects which are directly connected with the profile of educated student from specialty AE have been reviewed. Structure, action and fields of application of the Hydraulic machines, elements and power and control systems are discussed. Displacement volume machines – none and variable types in opened or closed-loops drives systems. Some specific problems are presented and a special interest some partial solutions are proposed.

Electrical machines and apparatus

The subjects taught in the course cover wide range of electrical devices that are responsible for electric energy conversion and usage. The discipline provides students with basic knowledge for the construction and operation of different types of electrical machines and apparatus. Special attention is focused on the physical aspect of the processes, fields and phenomena, operation modes, characteristics of the devices and their application.

Aviation meteorology

The subjects in the course are directly connected with the profile of the specialty AE. The description of the atmospheric processes and phenomena is made with adequate accuracy – having in mind the complexity of the matter but the stress is put on the applicability of the so obtained knowledge. Special attention is paid on the usage of pre-flight meteorological documentation as well as emergency messages and warnings .

Flight dynamics I (Aircraft performance)

Topics: Equations of motion and coordinates systems; Level flight; Climb; Descend; Take-off; Landing; Range, endurance and payload-range diagram; Maneuvering and flight envelope; Basic helicopter performance.

Avionics

Main topics of discipline are closely connected with the profile of the student’s specialization. Lectures are specified according with recommendations of the specialization “Aviation engineering”. The discipline includes gauges, gyroscopes, and navigation systems.

Aircraft engines I

Emphasis in this course is on jet propulsion with coverage of theory, construction, systems and performance of gas turbine engines. Aircraft piston engines are also included. The working process and construction of following main elements are exposed here: inlet; compressor; combustion chamber; gas turbine; exhaust system. Parameter calculation methods are displayed and the conditions of their cooperative action are suggested. Construction and operation of main engine systems are exposed. Specific features of different types gas turbine engines and their systems and performance parameters are explained.

Management

Managerial knowledge and skills in the field of aeronautical engineering let students both in the manufacturing and service sectors develop as professionals and low-to middle level managers as well. Main topics covered: Organizations and their internal and external environment, Development of management theory, Management and "E-Business", Operations Management in high-tech industries, Project Management, Marketing, Human Resource Management, Financial management etc.

Elective course ** (List 2)

Structural mechanics

The goal of the course is to provide students with fundamentals of aircraft structural mechanics. Subjects include: Energy theorems, Displacements in elastic systems, Statically indeterminate elastic systems, Bending of thin-walled beams, Shear forces in thin-walled beams, Torsion of thin-walled beams, Thin-walled beams with walls and booms, Stability of elements, Thermal stresses and deformations, Elements of composite materials, Joints and fittings.

Air navigation II

The academic discipline "Air Navigation 2" is designed for learning about and studying the methods, principles and procedures for the determination of the location of the aircraft with the help of technical means and radio navigational systems, planning and execution of the flight by flight rules, making navigation and reporting impact estimates of operational factors on the accuracy of radio navigation.
Knowledge and skills on radio navigation create preconditions for the multilateral implementation of the students in the aviation profession and in specialized areas of operation of aeronautical engineering and avionics.

Flight dynamics II (control and stability of aircraft)

The main topics concern: Introduction to the static stability and controllability. Investigation methods. Normative requirements for stability characteristics and handling of aircrafts. Static longitudinal stability. Airplane pitch moment. Contribution of airplane components. Longitudinal control. Elevator effectiveness. Elevator angle to trim. Elevator hinge moment. Stick forces. Trim tabs. Directional and roll stability. Side force, roll and yawing moments. Lateral equilibrium condition. Lateral-directional control. Directional control. Requirements for directional control. Roll control. Coupling effect. Stability derivatives. Derivatives due to the change in forward speed. Derivatives due to the change of the angle of attack. Derivatives due to the pitching velocity. Derivatives due to the time rate of change of the angle of attack. Derivatives due to the change of the sideslip angle. Derivatives due to the rolling rate. Derivatives due to the yawing rate. General equations of unsteady motion. The rigid-body equations. Small-disturbance theory. Longitudinal and lateral unsteady motions. Aerodynamic force and moment representation. Method of Laplace. Longitudinal motion. State variable representation of the equation of motion. Phugoid approximation. Short-period approximation. Effect of flight condition on the longitudinal modes. Flying qualities. Lateral Motion. Lateral-directional equations of motion. Spiral approximation. Dutch roll approximation. Lateral flying qualities. Aircraft response to longitudinal control. Response of linear/invariant systems. Longitudinal response to elevator and throttle. Aircraft response to lateral control. Lateral steady states. Lateral frequency response. Transient response to aileron and rudder.

Radio Electronic Equipment (Avionics 2)

The course includes knowledge of general methods and principles of radio navigation systems and devices. Radio navigation systems include ADF, DME, ILS, MLS, Basic Radar Principles, Airborne Weather Radar , Doppler, Radio Altimeter, Satellite Navigation Systems.

Aircraft systems

The goal of the course is to provide students with knowledge of aircraft systems, including Energy systems in aircrafts, Hydraulic systems, Pneumatic systems, Fuel systems, Environment control systems, Fire protection systems, Anti ice and deice systems, Electrical systems. Course also gives abilities to calculate basic workflow characteristics of aircraft systems.

Elective course ** (List 3)

Aircraft engines II

(not available for now)

Air law and air traffic control

The "Aviation Law and Air Traffic Services" course is a major, fundamental mandatory course for the specialty "Aerospace Engineering" includes theoretical knowledge of International and national aviation organizations, Rules of the air, Air traffic management, Airspace management, Establishment of air traffic services, Safety. Main topics of discipline are closely connected with the profile of the student’s specialization.

Human factors in aviation

Basic items are: The Need to take Human Factors into account. What is “Human Factors”; Human Performance and Limitations; Biological and physiological factors: vision hearing, sense of smell, vestibular system; Information Processing – Sensory system, Sensation, Perception, Attention, attitudes, memory, thinking, mental model, motor programs, decision making, situation awareness, risk, feedback; Working in confined spaces, Claustrophobia and working at significant heights; Social psychology; Personality and behavior, motivation and de-motivation; Communication; Team work; Factors affecting performance; Stress: domestic and work related; Time pressure and deadlines; Workload: overload, under load; Sleep, Fatigue and Shift Work; Physical environment; Working environment and Tasks; Visual inspection; Hazards in the workplace; Human Error - Models and theories; Avoiding and Managing Errors.

Aircraft control systems

The main objective of the course " Aircraft control systems " is to provide an introduction to the fundamentals of aircraft control systems. Emphasis in this course is on manual and automatic control of the aircraft with coverage of theory, construction and performance of control systems. Aircraft fly-by-wire systems are included also.

Aircraft maintenance

This course contains information related to the basic philosophy of maintenance as well as fundamental requirements for an effective maintenance and engineering operation, discussion of the organizational structure of a typical aircraft, through give the particulars of each functional unit within that structure, information essential to various aspects of maintenance and engineering activities.

Reliability and safety in aviation

The main objective of the course is to provide an introduction to the basic concepts of aviation reliability, safety and risk analysis. This course introduces students to fundamentals of reliability theory, system reliability modelling and analysis, hazard identification and fault diagnosis techniques, aviation safety management system, accident investigation, reliability and safety feedback information system and databases, reliability and safety standardization and regulation.
At the end of this course, the students should be able to demonstrate: a good understanding of the essential concepts of reliability and safety; an ability to develop adequate methodologies and procedures for safety and reliability assessment; working skills in relation to hazard identification, fault diagnosis and accident investigation.

Elective course ** (List 4)

Aircraft Design and Manufacturing

Overview of the aircraft design process. Mission requirements development and constraint diagrams - standards and specifications, JARs. Aircraft initial sizing. Empty weight prediction. Fuel weight prediction. Aircraft geometry selection: Thrust to weight ratio and wing loading .Crew station, passengers compartment and payload aerodynamics: Lift, drag, lift augmentation and wing design. Weights: Approximate group weight methods. Performance: The design mission: Range, Endurance, Climb, Descent, Takeoff, Landing. Aircraft stability: Stability and control surface sizing, Center of gravity, Static longitudinal stability, Static lateral stability. Cost analysis. Element of life cost analysis. Cost estimating methods. Technological process of manufacture; Geometric performances of the products; Technological methods and means for insurance of the interchangeability – classification, runners, patterns, standard surfaces, assemblies; Quality monitoring; Technological process design of the component treatment. Technological processes mechanization and automation; Aircrafts and aircraft engines assembly and mounting. Aviation product testing.

Aircraft electrical systems

(not available for now)

Aircraft operations

(not available for now)


2008 - 2014 Department of Aeronautics