Overview

Although the main tasks of the aircraft configuration are now completed, there are other topics of interest that require understanding of design. This chapter is an overview of the impact made by technological advances that must be considered at the conceptual stages to arrive at a “satisfying” design. It offers an understanding of specialized topics, some of which may appear out of context during the conceptual phase, but they do contribute to aircraft design. The aircraft external geometry is not affected by these considerations (unless a radical approach is taken); however, there could be weight and cost changes. The semi-empirical weight equations in Chapter 8 are sufficient and can be modified with improved data. In the industry, a more accurate weight estimation is required to reflect the changes affected by the topics discussed in this chapter.

A detailed study is beyond the scope of this book. Most academic institutions offer separate courses on some of the topics, such as aircraft structure, associated materials, and aircraft systems. Some of these topics sometimes escape attention because the undergraduate curriculum is already full with the main aeronautical subjects. Conceptual aircraft design is not only producing a geometry capable of meeting performance specifications; it also involves early thinking about environmental issues, safety issues, materials and structures, human interface with the flight deck, systems considerations, and military survivability issues that affect aircraft weight and cost.