Role of Stiffeners in Strengthening Skin Membrane for Aircraft Structures

The objective of this study is to investigate whether stiffeners can improve the structural integrity of aircraft skin membranes. To evaluate their effects on load distribution and deformation resistance, stiffeners which are available in a variety of designs, including stringers and ribs are 3D printed and incorporated into a scaled fuselage model. The performance of stiffened and unstiffened panels under compressive and tensile stresses are evaluated by the project using simulated stress testing. In lightweight aircraft structures, the results show how stiffeners reduce buckling and increase strength-to-weight ratios. The study also looks at how geometric design and material characteristics affect structural efficiency.