Semi-monocoque

Semi-monocoque structure inside an aircraft's rear fuselage
ARV Super2 with semi-monocoque fuselage

The term semi-monocoque refers to a stressed shell structure that is similar to a true monocoque, but which derives at least some of its strength from conventional reinforcement. Semi-monocoque construction is used for, among other things, aircraft fuselages, car bodies and motorcycle frames.

Examples of semi-monocoque vehicles

Semi-monocoque aircraft fuselages differ from true monocoque construction through being reinforced with longitudinal stringers.[1][2] The Mooney range of four seat aircraft, for instance, use a steel tube truss frame around the passenger compartment with monocoque behind.

Peter Williams' 1973 John Player Norton 750 with sheet stainless steel semi-monocoque frame, exhibited at Castletown, Isle of Man in 1999

The British ARV Super2 light aircraft has a fuselage constructed mainly of aluminium alloy, but with some fibreglass elements. The cockpit is a stiff monocoque of "Supral" alloy, but aft of the cockpit bulkhead, the ARV is conventionally built, with frames, longerons and stressed skin forming a semi-monocoque.[3]

Peter Williams' 1973 Formula 750 TT-winning JPS Norton racer was an early example of a semi-monocoque motorcycle.[4]

See also

References

  1. ↑ http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/semimonocoque
  2. ↑ http://www.aviationchatter.com/2010/01/semi-monocoque-mono-what/
  3. ↑ "Pilot" magazine, June 1985 pages 5-6
  4. ↑ http://peterwilliamsmotorcycles.com
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