![]() Starting with manual sources like cables and rods, actuation technology gradually advanced to hydraulically- and electrically-driven solutions. Over the past several decades, the source control signals as well as power for actuators onboard aircraft has evolved. Image adapted from Jean-Charles Maré: Aerospace Actuators 1, Wiley 2016. A review of electromechanical actuators for More/All Electric aircraft systems. Training aircraft such as the Piper Archer and Piper Seminole utilized at AeroGuard offer cable systems, while SkyWest CRJs utilize hydraulics and the Airbus A320 uses fly by wire systems.Commercial aircraft actuation applications. Can be costly in comparison to a mechanical systemĮach of the above systems are used in all different types of aircraft.There are some disadvantages that accompany fly by wire aircraft: Flight envelope protection system allowing pilots full control without exceeding the aircraft’s limits.This process repeats as the pilot inputs various commands.įly by wire aircraft have a variety of benefits associated with them. The commands move the actuators which send a signal back to the flight computer. Once a signal is received, the flight control computer assesses which movement to make to perform the pilot’s command. ![]() The computer communicates using an electric wire, ergo the name, “fly by wire”. The computer works by sending signals to an actuator, which then determines how control surfaces are moved to satisfy what the pilot tells it to do via a sidestick or yoke. “Fly by wire” is a phrase used to describe a system on an airplane that uses computers rather than mechanics to process flight controls. Heavier weight for requisite components.Hydraulic fluid is considered corrosive.There are a few disadvantages to hydraulic aircraft systems: Hydraulics make flight controls easier to maneuver.No delay in movement because liquids aren’t compressible.There are several benefits to hydraulic systems: There are a multitude of benefits hydraulics provide. When a pilot activates a hydraulic system on the aircraft, this causes the actuator’s movement and puts whichever part of the control system utilized into motion. Having basic knowledge of Pascal’s law is helpful in understanding aircraft hydraulics. Pascal’s law essentially states that if pressure is applied on non-compressible liquid in a closed system, this creates equal pressure throughout that system. Once the pump is activated, the system becomes pressurized and the actuator moves to the control surface and is then moved into the proper position. The components include the hydraulic pump, motor and system plumbing.Ī pilot will activate a hydraulic system using a switch or flight control instrument. Similar to steering and braking in a car, hydraulic aircraft systems utilize pressurized fluid and mechanical components to move parts of the plane. Mechanically Actuated Hydraulic Systems Explained The tension must be adjusted often because of changes in temperature and stretchingĪnother type of control system includes mechanically actuated hydraulic systems.There is one disadvantage that comes with cable systems: Cables are utilized in engine controls and landing gear as well. Mechanically actuated cable systems are one type of primary flight control system. A Look at Mechanically Actuated Cable Systems However, do you know the differences between these systems, as well as the benefits and disadvantages of each? Let’s dive in. If you’re familiar with aviation lingo, it’s likely you have an idea about the varying control systems on an aircraft.
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