Teaching automobile, flight, and system dynamics using innovative motion simulation experiments

This paper discusses the design and extension of a set of motion simulation experiments and their subsequent incorporation into an innovative framework to teach engineering systems analysis and flight dynamics, including topics such as system control, stability, feedback, and design. These are fundamental concepts at the core of many engineering systems including mechanical, aerospace, electrical, thermal, and fluid systems. Many engineers are increasingly turning to simulation and virtual prototyping, rather than physical prototyping, to explore new design concepts. As the use of simulation increases across all of engineering, the demand for students with hands-on experience in configuring, executing, and understanding simulation-based experimentation will also increase. In this paper, we present the results from integrating experience-based system simulation modules into a series of vehicle dynamics courses. We also present experiential modules to integrate the motion simulation system into a required junior-level mechanical engineering course and in a required senior-level flight dynamics aerospace engineering course. This paper reports on work done under National Science Foundation grant DUE-0633596 in the Course, Curriculum, and Laboratory Improvement (CCLI) program.