Compiled by Dr. David Kennedy, Cardiff School of Engineering, Cardiff UK
The design of aircraft and spacecraft is a complex multi-disciplinary activity. Aerodynamic, propulsion, structural and systems design requirements lead to multiple, and often competing, objectives and constraints. Following an initial specification of the design requirements, an iterative conceptual design procedure explores numerous alternative design concepts. The preliminary design stage next involves more rigorous analysis and testing of a number of the most promising concepts. The chosen configuration is finally submitted to a detailed design process which provides the engineering data required for tooling, manufacture and certification.