A New Method of Bulkhead Analysis in Aircraft Structures

A new method of bulkhead analysis has been developed using two-dimensional finite element analysis as a tool. The method determines the internal forces, deflections, and stress distribution along the bulkhead, and the shear flow distribution in the adjacent skin. Several bulkheads next to each other can be analyzed simultaneously if the study of interaction becomes necessary. The results of this method compare favorably with the results of a three-dimensional finite element stress analysis and test measurements. The method can be used with any existing two-dimensional finite element computer program containing just a beam element, and it does not require large computer storage.