Advanced Design Problems in Aerospace Engineering, Delft, The Netherlands

摘要

A short discussion is given to show the potential to improve aircraft fuselages with the application of a multi-disciplinary design philosophy. At the end of the thirties, light aluminium stalled to take over the role of wood and steel as primary materials in aircraft. The all-metal, stressed skin structure became the standard in the aircraft industry. Simultaneously, the airplane configuration was adapted to the new structural concept, as were the fabrication methods. The results of the introduction of aluminium were rather spectacular. Within a relatively short period it became possible to transport more passengers over greater distances, faster, at higher altitudes and, therefore, with more comfort. The first steps to modem air traffic were taken. These steps marked the beginning of a long lasting evolution of the aluminium airplane structure.