A new methodology is presented for solving the problem of optimizing the aircraft parameters, such as the size of its control surfaces, while meeting open-and closed-loop static and dynamic performance requirements. The approach proposed involves rewriting these requirements as linear matrix inequalities and solving a related constrained optimization problem for which efficient numerical solutions are available.

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This paper provides an interim progress report for the North American Aerospace Project, an effort of the North American CDIO consortium. The project seeks to promote and facilitate the adoption of the CDIO (Conceive Design Implement Operate) model for engineering education in U.S. Aerospace programs. This paper reports the consortium's activities at the conclusion of the project's first year, highlighting the development of six project based learning modules, for which summaries are included. These modules are designed for ready adoption at other schools seeking to implement project based instruction. Introduction: a project relevant to industry needs Aerospace generally, and aeronautics particularly, is a key sector of the US economy, contributing significantly to the gross domestic product, positive balance of trade, and national security. Yet the sector is facing a systemic challenge-maintaining a world-class workforce. Over the next decade, the demographics of the sector suggest that there will be a significant shortfall in technically competent engineers and other technical specialists necessary to keep this sector healthy, and preserve the nation's aeronautics core competencies. From a national policy perspective, this need has been clearly recognized. The National Aeronautics R&D Policy instructs that "executive departments and agencies with responsibility for aeronautics-related activities should continue to invest in educational development of the future aeronautics workforce…" The NASA Strategy Plan of 2006 references the need for NASA's own Strategic Management of Human Capital, and in the section on Strategic Communications: Education Initiatives reinforces NASA's responsibility to "strengthen NASA and the nation's future workforce" and to "Attract and retain students in STEM Disciplines". The NASA Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate (ARMD) goals include taking "responsibility for the intellectual stewardship of the core competencies of aeronautics" which certainly includes their retention by the workforce. The importance of STEM (Science-Technology-Engineering-Mathematics) workforce is paramount to other organizations as well, including the NAE, the AIAA and the AIA. 1 2. Learning Objectives 2.1. Technical objectives (e.g., basic math, science and engineering knowledge, skills, processes and procedures). This lab requires the student to apply basic principles of aircraft performance taught in class to a small radio-controlled airplane. The 2.2. CDIO outcomes (e.g., personal and professional skills and attributes teamwork, communication, conceiving, designing, implementing and operating skills).

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