AYRSHIRE COLLEGE

Unit No. : H94F 34

Module Title : Aircraft Structures & Materials
Assignment : Project Brief (Assessment 2)

Candidate Introduction

This unit will allow the candidate to acquire an enhanced understanding of aircraft
structures and materials. The project will focus on developing the candidates understanding
with regards to aircraft structural design and repair and why these methodologies are used.
The project word count should be circa. 1500 words.

Project Brief

1. Design - Structural classification of aircraft

- Loads exerted upon aircraft (ground and flight)
- Design methodologies

2. Repair - Metallic structure – identify common defect types

- Composite structure – identify common defect types
- Metallic structure – identify common damage detection methods
- Composite structure – identify common damage detection methods
- Composite structure – repair process
- Metallic structure – repair process

Aims and Objectives

Candidate evidence for this assessment, will be in the form of a written report of
approximately 1500 (+/- 10%) words plus diagrams. Evidence for the Outcome will be
produced during supervised class time and candidates will be allowed access to notes,
handouts, reference books and online help.
Regarding the written report, the candidate will:
Section 1
• Research and present aircraft structural classification ensuring to discuss, Primary,
Secondary & Tertiary structure.
• Discuss the importance of a primary structural element.
• Research and present main loads/forces present within an aircraft both during
ground and flight condition.

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 • Research and present the term ‘stressed skin’ in regard to aircraft design methods
focusing on the following areas;
1. With the aid of a diagram, show which structural members are used
within this design.
2. Discuss the role of each structural member in transmitting loads.
Section 2

• Composite structure, research and present at least two items for each of the
following;
1. Common defect types.
2. Common detection methods (NDT).
3. Common repair techniques.

• Metallic structure, research and present at least two items for each of the following;
4. Common defect types.
5. Common detection methods (NDT).
6. Common repair techniques.

• Candidates will use the following within this word processing document:
1. Project Introduction
2. Project Objectives
3. Project Discussion and Evaluation
4. Critical Reflection
5. Conclusion
6. Harvard Referencing

• Evaluate project activities and student learning

Student Resources
Candidates could make use to the following list of reference materials. This list is not
inclusive. Other materials may be used to supplement:

1. Aircraft Structures and Systems, R. Wilkinson

2. Aircraft Structures for engineering students, T.H.G. Megson
3. Understanding Aircraft Structures, J. Liber

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