Analysis of Composite Structures

About this course:

This course provides an introduction to the theoretical and practical aspects of composite structural analysis for aircraft and spacecraft vehicles. Expanding on the concepts covered in Structures and Properties of Composite Materials, this course covers composite structural integrity criteria and analysis methods. An overview of structural integrity criteria, including composite failure modes, effects of defects/ damage, notched vs. unnotched strength, and material/sub-element allowable, is related to required analysis methods. Analysis methods covered include finite element method (FEM) theory, composite mechanical and thermal material input for FEM, and approximate variational methods. Analysis methods also include approaches and tools for laminate theory, notch analysis, inter-laminar stress, thermally-induced stress, thermal conduction, panel stability, crippling, bolted joints, bonded joints, wet tie joints, Pi perform joints, fatigue, panel effectivity, progressive failure analysis, and probabilistic approaches. Participants learn the detailed analyses methods used by the NGC Structural Analysis Department on composites. A range of exercises covering “how-to” practical analyses is demonstrated, including correlation to lab coupon failure testing. Skills obtained in this course are used in the capstone project of the participants’ choice to showcase their knowledge with a focus on NGC’s Affordability tenents. Students will have an opportunity to participate in an analysis prediction competition on real testing.