Transport Aircraft Design: Problems and Solutions

Analyzing the trade-off between the range and the payload of an aircraft is an essential skill. This course explains how this balance works and how the technical breakdown of the aircraft weight begins with determining the maximum ramp weight (MRW) based on the manufacturer’s perspective. We will then estimate the maximum takeoff weight (MTOW), maximum landing weight (MLW) and maximum zero fuel weight for approval within the authorized limits. The standard and operator items such as engine oil, toilet fluids, seats, foods and beverages that make up the aircraft components and consignments will also be used to provide the parameter values required by the flight operators. You will examine the three types of range payload and study the factors that affect the payload diagram: flight altitude, speed, and powerplant. We will also highlight the invaluable application of the payload range curve during meteorological conditions. The lessons will include a tutorial on the payload diagram to see how to use its area to calculate the various range payload parameters. You will also learn about the major challenges posed to the world’s ecosystem by aircraft use and operations. The adverse effects of the environmental challenges posed by aircraft, and the possible solutions in terms of engineering design, concepts and models, will be advocated.

Next, you will discover the application of the v-n diagram for symmetrical manoeuvres in the z-plane (z-axis). The application will involve the considerations of the effects of symmetrical manoeuvres on the structural configuration of an aircraft. You will also learn about load factors and the properties that determine the upper limits of the load factor, including the structural strength of the aircraft, the highest permissible load factor and the maximum lift coefficient. You will see how to use the maximum payload limit to estimate the flight-zone and no-flight-zone of an aircraft. We will also examine the positive effects of gusts on the vertical load of the aircraft. Moreover, you will consider the four categories of loads that act on an aircraft, estimate the aircraft load during landing and takeoff, and determine the limit, ultimate loads and gust loads of an aircraft by using parameter values for the engineering model calculations. We will show you the critical mission requirements of High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) aircraft and the application of aviation vehicles for aerial surveillance and satellite communications. We will emphasize the advantage of HALE Unmanned Aviation Vehicles (HALE UAVs) over conventional aircraft

Finally, you will consider distinct concepts like Morphing and the application of such models for improvements in performance efficiency, competency and the structural adaptability of an aircraft. The piezoelectric devices for memory alloys, inflatable wings for UAVs and rigidization are other concepts we will explain in the lesson. An informative guest lecturer will address the airpower and special feature configurations of a multirole fighter aircraft. We will further clarify directed energy devices, mission threat analysis and aircraft weapon systems. A good design means developing a concept that resolves the various challenges encountered during product creation while championing the solution to obtain a win-win situation. It is of utmost importance that aircraft designers possess the necessary skills to fabricate products that meet acceptable standards. These designers must ensure the safety of passengers and personnel for civil operations and mission success during military engagements. Are you passionate about aeronautics, aeronautical engineering or aerospace engineering and or considering a career path in any of these fields? This easy to follow course is perfect for you. So why wait? Start this course today!