MAE3411 · Aerospace structural mechanics

Overview

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 aerodynamics 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. Fracture mechanics and the role crack growth plays in limiting the airworthiness of aircraft will be considered. The unit will provide you with the tools necessary to design and maintain aerospace structures.

Areas of study: E3001 Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) - Specialisation: Aerospace engineering

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

Continuous assessment: 40% Final assessment: 60% This unit contains a hurdle requirement that you must achieve to be able to pass the unit. You are required to achieve at least 45% in the total continuous assessment component and at least 45% in the final assessment component. The consequence of not achieving a hurdle requirement is a fail grade (NH) and a maximum mark of 45 for the unit.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

Learning outcomes

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. Apply principles of fracture mechanics to ensure the safety of aircraft structural components.
4. Analyse crack growth in aircraft structural members.
5. Apply modern fatigue crack growth theories to ensure the continued airworthiness of aircraft structural components.
6. Formulate solutions to problems associated with the residual strength of cracked aircraft structural members.

Workload

The minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of 3-6 hours of scheduled learning activities and 6-9 hours of independent study per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher-directed learning, peer-directed learning and online engagement. Independent study may include associated readings, assessment and preparation for scheduled activities.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.