2.8 Learning Outcomes

At the conclusion of the course, the student should be able to:

• apply stiffness and strength concepts to light-weight load-bearing structures,
• understand static and dynamic failure modes of structural components,
• study and evaluate methods, assumptions and approximations of structural analysis,
• evaluate mission requirements and their effects on the design for structural integrity of light-weight vehicles.

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2.8.1 Extended description

The course deals with the design and analysis of aerospace structures. First, the flow of boundary dynamic and static loads through a typical structure is discussed. Then stresses and deformations of individual members and components are studied, culminating with monocoque and semi-monocoque load-carrying structures. Assumed and actual internal load distributions are explained and possible failure modes are presented.

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Various methods of analysis are studied thoroughly. However, the emphasis is not on techniques but on concepts and comprehension. Hence, careful attention is paid to the correct interpretation of results. One of the methods applied in this course is the Finite Element Method (FEM). There will be a computer assignment applying Finite Element Analysis (FEA).