The lectures of AE4509 cover material from the book “Design and Analysis of Composite Structures” by C. Kassapoglou, but is not mandatory.

Starting with the basic mathematical derivation followed by simplifications used in real-world design, the book presents the level of accuracy and range of applicability of each method along with design guidelines derived from experience combined with analysis.  The author solves examples taken from actual applications to show how the concepts can be applied, solving the same design problem with different methods based on different drivers (e.g. cost or weight) to show how the final configuration changes as the requirements and approach change. Each chapter is followed by exercises that represent specific design problems often encountered in the aerospace industry but which are also applicable in the in the automotive, marine, and construction industries.