93846 - Aerospace Structures

Learning outcomes

The integrated course Aerospace Structures provides the student with a comprehensive understanding of the mechanical behavior, analysis, and design of aerospace structures. Through the combination of classical analytical approaches, numerical simulation techniques, and design-oriented methodologies, the student develops the ability to evaluate stresses, strains, and stability phenomena in thin-walled and semi-monocoque configurations, and to apply these concepts to the conceptual and preliminary design of aircraft. In this module, the student focuses on the classical and numerical methods for evaluating stress and strain fields in aerospace structures. Particular attention is devoted to semi-monocoque configurations, thin plates, and structural stability problems such as buckling. The student acquires a solid understanding of the mechanical behavior of aerospace components and develops skills in the application of numerical methodologies for design and verification.

Course contents

1) Stress and deformation evaluation in aerospace structures:

Basic of the beam theory and its application to thin-walled aeronautical structures;

Shear-lag;

Restrained warping;

Hyperstatic and energetic methods;

Finite element method;

Theory of the plates and shell


2) Analysis of the elastic equilibrium stability and collapse

The stability concept;

Beam primary instability and collapse;

Beam torsional instability;

Instability of thin plates and collapse;

Secondary buckling of beams

Readings/Bibliography

E.F. Bruhn; “Analysis and design of flight vehicles structures”, ed. Jacobs
T.H.G. Megson; “Aircraft Structures for Engineering Students”, ed. Arnold
R. Rivello; “Theory and analysis of flight structures”, ed. McGraw-Hill

Teaching methods

Lectures are held by the course teacher. Explicit demonstration of the mathematical approach will be followed by applications to practical aerospace problems

Assessment methods

Assessment is based on an oral examination aimed at evaluating the student's understanding of the theoretical foundations and engineering applications of aerospace structural analysis and stability. The examination covers all the topics presented during the course, including stress and deformation analysis of aerospace structures, thin-walled structural elements, energy methods, finite element modelling, plate and shell theories, and structural stability and collapse phenomena.

During the examination, students are required to demonstrate:

• knowledge of the theoretical principles underlying aerospace structural analysis;
• ability to formulate and discuss mathematical models used for the analysis of aerospace structures;
• capability to apply the methods presented in class to practical aerospace engineering problems;
• understanding of structural stability, buckling, and collapse phenomena;
• ability to critically interpret results and discuss the assumptions and limitations of the adopted approaches.

The final grade is determined by considering:

• accuracy and completeness of the answers;
• depth of understanding of the theoretical concepts;
• ability to connect analytical methods with engineering applications;
• clarity of presentation and appropriate use of technical terminology.

A passing grade requires adequate achievement of the intended learning outcomes, including both theoretical knowledge and the ability to apply structural analysis and stability methods to aerospace engineering problems.

 

it is not possible to use notes, handouts, books under penalty of exclusion from the test.

In accordance with the University Code of Ethics (Codice Etico di Ateneo), students’ attention is drawn to the obligation to adopt conduct based on the highest standards of integrity.
Any activity that may compromise the proper conduct of examinations is prohibited, including but not limited to:

• cheating and plagiarism;
• access to online learning resources;
• use of artificial intelligence tools not expressly authorized;
• use or possession of unauthorized materials or equipment.

It is specified that the mere possession of unauthorized tools or materials during the conduct of any examination results in the immediate invalidation of the submitted work and notification to the competent offices.

Any conduct in violation of the above provisions may result in disciplinary proceedings and, where criminal relevance applies, reports to the competent authorities, with the consequent risk of criminal proceedings being initiated against the students involved.

Teaching tools

Computer slides by LCD projector are used in addition to the standard blackboard

Office hours

See the website of Enrico Troiani