This book is concerned with the response of systems in equilibrium to perturbing forces, and the general theory underlying their behaviour. When a system is in equilibrium it can remain motionless indefinitely, until it is disturbed. Then it may sink back to its original state, or vibrate about the position of rest, or fall over. Also, if the conditions governing the system are slowly changed, the system will adjust itself to the alteration in a smooth fashion, except at critical points, where a tiny change of conditions may lead to a major alteration. Important modern topics to which the author gives serious attention are: elementary catastrophe theory; bifurcation and chaos in the response of driven systems; and phase changes, especially critical points and X-transitions. It is Professor Pippard's belief that all practising physicists and engineers should be aware of the disconcerting possibility of real systems to behave unpredictably and this book is intended to encourage the spread of such an awareness.

Aircraft Dynamic Stability and Response deals with the fundamentals of dynamic stability in aircraft. Topics covered include flight dynamics, equations of motion, and lateral and longitudinal aerodynamic derivatives. Basic lateral and longitudinal motions are also considered. A non-dimensional system of notation is used, and problems are included at the end of chapters. This book is comprised of 13 chapters and begins with an introduction to aircraft static stability and maneuverability, with emphasis on the theoretical basis of flight dynamics and the technical terms used. The physical background for the estimation of aerodynamic derivatives is discussed. Subsequent chapters focus on the longitudinal and lateral motion of aircraft, including the effect of automatic control; modern developments such as the effects of aeroelasticity, dynamic coupling, and high incidence; and aircraft response to gusts. The final chapter demonstrates how to estimate the aerodynamic derivatives, and hence the dynamic stability characteristics, of a typical fighter aircraft. Throughout the text, the aircraft and its behavior are kept well to the fore. This monograph is intended for undergraduate students of aeronautical engineering and for newcomers to the aircraft industry.

The performance, stability, control and response of aircraft are key areas of aeronautical engineering. This book provides a comprehensive overview to the underlying theory and application of what are often perceived to be difficult topics. Initially it introduces the reader to the fundamental concepts underlying performance and stability, including lift characteristics and estimation of drag, before moving on to a more detailed analysis of performance in both level and climbing flight. Pitching motion is then described followed by a detailed discussion of all aspects of both lateral and longitudinal stability and response. It finishes with an examination of inertial cross-coupling and automatic control and stabilization. The student is helped to think in three dimensions throughout the book by the use of illustrative examples. The progression from one degree of freedom to six degrees of freedom is gradually introduced. The result is an approach dealing specifically with all aspects of performance, stability and control that fills a gap in the current literature. It will be essential reading for all those embarking on degree level courses in aeronautical engineering and will be of interest to all with an interest in stability and dynamics, including those in commercial flying schools who require an insight into the performance of their aircraft. Ideal for undergraduate aeronautical engineers Three-dimensional thinking introduced through worked examples and simple situations