Structural efficiency study of graphite-epoxy aircraft rib structures

Attention is given to the structural efficiencies obtainable with optimally designed graphite/epoxy wing rib panel configurations that are potentially economically manufacturable. Some ribs are commonly used as fuel cell closeout panels, and are accordingly subjected to out-of-plane pressure loads in addition to the in-plane axial compressive and shear loads resulting from the wing loading. The present minimum-weight panel designs satisfy buckling and strength constraints for wing rib panels subjected to a wide range of combined load conditions.