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Aircraft Structures
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:06:53
Abstract
This course is building-up on fundamental knowledge in mechanics and lightweight structures. It is concerned with structural design, strength & stability analysis and sizing of aircraft structures. The course is complemented by calculation exercises, discussion of real-world examples, and laboratory sessions.
Objective
The course provides in-depth knowledge in structural design, materials, design allowable and loads in aircraft structures. The main goal is to develop solid skills to understand, and solve engineering problems related to structural design, strength analysis and stability of aircraft structures. The latter include: - Wing and empennage structures: Design and modelling aspects, multi-cell design and ribs. - Fuselage structures: Design and modelling aspects, buckling strength, design and analysis of fuselage frames. - Plane stress elements and load introduction. - Diagonal semi-tension field. - Static and buckling analysis of cylindrical shells.
Content
The course is addressing the following topics: - Introduction, hystorical aspects - Aircraft design - Materials and allowables - Aircraft loads, design criteria - Stress calculation in semi-monocoque structures - Stability of plates and stiffened panels - Wing and empennage structures: Design and modelling, multi-spar constructions and ribs - Plane stress elements, load introduction and shear lag problems - Fuselage structures: Design and modelling of fusealge panels and frames - Diagonal semi-tension field design - Static and buckling analysis of cylindrical shells Laboratory practices: - Structural test of a vertical empennage - Stress concentration in panels with cutouts - Buckling of cylindrical shells
Resources
Lecture Notes
Lecture notes, handouts, exercises, and the script are available for download in a digital format. The lecture materials can be found via moodle:https://moodle-app2.let.ethz.ch/course/view.php?id=16989
Learning Materials (Links)
- Main link
- Information
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- session examination
- Mode
- written 120 minutes
- Aids
- Open book: all documents are allowed (e.g. lecture materials, notes, summaries, books, dictionary); writing utensils, calculator, no computers and other communication devices.
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture | Aircraft Structures |
|
2 h weekly |
| exercise | Aircraft Structures |
|
1 h weekly |
Offered In
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Mechanics, Materials, Structures (The courses listed in this category “Core Courses” are recommended. Alternative courses can be chosen in agreement with the tutor.)
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