MAE3407 - Aircraft structures 2 - 2018

This unit aims to develop an understanding of the analytical methodologies used in strength and stiffness assessment of aircraft structures. The unit will develop an understanding of the translation of aerodynamic and ground loading on aircraft wings and fuselage to the overall airframe. An understanding of the concept of structural idealisation and constraint will be developed along with real-world limitations. The principles of stressed skin construction will be considered in detail. The unit aims to develop an understanding of the analysis and design of structural problems common in the aerospace industry. It will provide students with the tools necessary to analyse aircraft structures.

At the successful completion of this unit you will be able to:

1. Describe the relevance of strength and stiffness aspects of aircraft structures and components, including stressed skin construction.
2. Select appropriate modelling tools and analytical methodologies to analyse structural aerospace problems.
3. Address the interaction between, often conflicting, requirements in the design of airframes i.e. aerodynamics, avionics and propulsion.
4. Interpret and translate real-world forces into abstract form for engineering modelling of airframes.
5. Manage the relationship between analytical methodologies and real-world aircraft design.
6. Design original solutions to new engineering problems in the aerospace industry.

Continuous assessment: 40%

Final Examination (2 hours): 60%

Students are required to achieve at least 45% in the total continuous assessment component and at least 45% in the final examination component and an overall mark of 50% to achieve a pass grade in the unit. Students failing to achieve this requirement will be given a maximum of 45% in the unit.

Six hours of contact time per week (usually 3 hours lectures and 3 hours practice sessions or laboratories) and 6 hours of private study per week

See also Unit timetable information

Aerospace Engineering