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Structural Weight Estimations for Novel Configurations*

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  04 July 2016

M. E. Burt
M. E. Burt*
Affiliation:
Structures Department, Royal Aircraft Establishment, Farnborough
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Summary

The aims of structure weight estimation are discussed and a review is given of its development in this country during the past fifty years from the simplest of formulae to quite detailed methods. The limitations of formulae derived only from statistical analysis of actual aircraft structures are noted. For aircraft of novel configuration it is essential for the weight of the basic load-carrying structure to be estimated by methods which are based upon the actual design and stressing procedures. The principles of “optimum” or “minimum-weight” structural design are a valuable feature of such methods and are briefly described. Statistical analysis, however, is still important for estimating the substantial weight of the joints, cutouts, transparencies and other features which transform a theoretical optimum structure into a complete and practical one. The problems of several aeroplane and missile configurations of current interest are discussed, and also the extent to which detailed design work is necessary to provide reliable structure weight estimates for such projects.

Type
Research Article
Information
The Aeronautical Journal , Volume 66 , Issue 613 , January 1962 , pp. 15 - 30
Copyright
Copyright © Royal Aeronautical Society 1962

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Footnotes

*

The 1228th Lecture given to the Society—on 9th May 1961

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