This course introduces the concepts in the design and analysis of aircraft structures.  A practical insight into the techniques used to analyse large scale structures with emphasis on the terminology used in this industry is presented.

2 lectures per week

None

None

80% Written Exam

20% Report

The aims of this course are to:

■ explain typical terminology associated with aircraft structures;

■ provide practical insight into the assessment of structural behaviour using combinations of analytical, experimental and numerical techniques;

■ develop experimental skills for validation of predicted behaviour of structural members under load;

■ develop an appreciation for the design and sizing of aircraft structural configurations subject to various load combinations.

By the end of this course students will be able to:

■ discuss and compare aerospace structural design configurations using the appropriate terminology;

■ calculate the stress distribution in aircraft components with the aid of experimental tests;

■ validate test results using computer aided analysis;

■ design and size structural components under a complex loading system using data sheets and computer aided analysis;

■ design connections to transmit a complex load system.

Students must attend the degree examination and submit at least 75% by weight of the other components of the course's summative assessment.

Students must attend the timetabled laboratory classes.