Aircraft structures

The Principles of solid and structural mechanics that can be used to design and analyze
aerospace structures, in particular aircraft structures.

The structures of most flight vehicles are thin walled structures (shells)

Function of Aircraft Structures:

o Resists applied loads (Aerodynamic loads acting on the wing structure)

o Provides the aerodynamic shape
o Protects the contents from the environment

Elphej churchil S J- Basics A/c Structures Sathyabama University, Dept of Aero Page 1
 Primary structure:
A critical load-bearing structure on an aircraft. If this structure is severely damaged, the
aircraft cannot fly.
Secondary structure:
Structural elements mainly to provide enhanced aerodynamics. Fairings, for instance,
are found where the wing meets the body or at various locations on the leading or
trailing edge of the wing.
Monocoque structures:
o Unstiffened shells.
o Must be relatively thick to resist bending, compressive, and
torsional loads.

Semi-monocoque Structures:
o Constructions with stiffening members that may also be required to
diffuse concentrated loads into the cover.
o More efficient type of construction that permits much thinner
covering shell (skin).

Elphej churchil S J- Basics A/c Structures Sathyabama University, Dept of Aero Page 2
 Skin
oReacts the applied torsion and shear forces.
o Transmits aerodynamic forces to the longitudinal and transverse
supporting members.
o Acts with the longitudinal members in resisting the applied bending
and axial loads
o Acts with the transverse members in reacting the hoop or
circumferential load when the structure is pressurized.
Ribs and Frames
o Keep the wing in its aerodynamic profile
o Structural integration of the wing and fuselage

Spar
o resist bending and axial loads
o form the wing box for stable torsion resistance

Stiffener or Stringers
o resist bending and axial loads along with the skin
o divide the skin into small panels and thereby increase its buckling
and failing stresses
o Act with the skin in resisting axial loads caused by pressurization.

Elphej churchil S J- Basics A/c Structures Sathyabama University, Dept of Aero Page 3