It is shown that by the use of discrete axial distributions of imaginary source discs it is possible to generate a wide class of axisymmetric bodies. In particular thin bodies with bluff ends may be obtained, as well as a variety of other shapes. These results, which were obtained by an "indirect" method, indicate that a re-formulation as a "direct" method is possible and this is being pursued. Starting in 1946 as the College of Aeronautics, the Cranfield Institute of Technology was granted university status in 1969. In 1993 it changed its name to Cranfield University.