Development of a virtual aerospace laboratory for undergraduate education

Abstract

Using hypermedia techniques, an interactive presentation package, Virtual Aerospace Laboratory for Undergraduate Education VALUE, for the Macintosh computer has been developed to aid undergraduates. Real-life examples include movies of low-speed and supersonic flows, vortex motions, generation of lift, and various flight maneuvers and responses. The current package is being used as a supplement in such courses as junior-level aerodynamics, senior-level aircraft dynamics, and aerospace engineering laboratories. A structural framework for adding additional material was developed, and a consistent and user-friendly interface was constructed and tested. This article focuses on the recent developments to make the package more flexible and interactive. © 1996 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.