Pfister E. - Aircraft Construction, Part III: The Fuselage (1930) (ebook)
Der Bau des Flugzeuges, Teil III: Rumpf (E. Pfister & H. Eschke, 1930)
Published in 1930 as part of a German technical series on aircraft construction, this volume thoroughly explores the fuselage, a central element of aircraft architecture. Through 93 illustrations and rigorous analysis, the authors trace its evolution from modest beginnings to its complex role in modern aircraft.
The history of the fuselage begins with early aircraft like the 1903 Wright Doppeldecker, where it was merely a lightweight truss structure designed to connect the wings, tail, and engine. As power and speeds increased, this open structure—once a source of drag—was covered with fabric to form a hollow body, reducing air resistance while providing usable space for passengers or cargo. The authors already highlight revolutionary concepts, such as the "tailless aircraft," where the wing would absorb all structural functions, though economic and technical constraints of the time still limited their development.
The fuselage fulfills several essential functions: it supports the tail, accommodates the crew and passengers, integrates the landing gear or floats for seaplanes, and can even carry engines. Its position in the aircraft depends on these roles, with varied configurations such as the dual-fuselage experimental design, used to optimize propeller thrust or improve stability. For seaplanes, the choice between a single or double hull directly affects resistance to impact during water landings and the aircraft’s total weight.
The construction of the fuselage must meet strict mechanical and aerodynamic constraints. It endures bending and torsional forces, particularly at the tail, engines, or during landings. To withstand these, its structure combines longerons, frames, and cross-bracing, often made of wood or metal, covered with fabric or rigid panels. Aerodynamics also play a key role, with streamlined shapes to minimize drag, as seen in the Junkers G 24.
The authors also address innovations related to propulsion. Engine placement influences propeller efficiency, cooling—crucial for radial engines—and flight safety, particularly in the event of engine failure on multi-engine aircraft. The fuselage must also protect passengers from dangerous areas, such as propeller arcs.
Finally, this work proves to be a foundational reference for aircraft design. Its methodical approach, combining theory and practice, laid the groundwork for modular aeronautical engineering, anticipating future challenges: weight savings, versatility, and safety. It remains a valuable source for understanding the evolution of construction techniques in the 20th century.
68 pages, in German; PDF available for download.