Formula:
Definition: This calculator determines the maximum deviation of an aircraft's main undercarriage based on fillet radius, taxiway dimensions, safety margins, and undercarriage track.
Purpose: It helps airport engineers and planners ensure safe aircraft maneuvering on taxiways by calculating critical clearance parameters.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the maximum allowable deviation while maintaining safe clearances during aircraft taxiing.
Details: Proper deviation calculation ensures safe aircraft operations, prevents wingtip collisions, and maintains required safety margins on taxiways.
Tips: Enter all dimensions in meters. Default values are provided but should be adjusted for specific aircraft and airport conditions. All values must be > 0.
Q1: Why is the deviation calculated as negative?
A: The negative sign indicates the deviation is measured inward from the taxiway centerline.
Q2: What's a typical safety margin for airports?
A: Safety margins typically range from 3-15 meters depending on aircraft size and airport classification.
Q3: How does undercarriage track affect deviation?
A: Wider undercarriage tracks increase the potential deviation as the wheels are farther from the centerline.
Q4: When would I need to adjust the fillet radius?
A: Fillet radius may need adjustment for different aircraft types or when optimizing taxiway layouts.
Q5: Does this calculation account for aircraft dynamics?
A: This is a static calculation. Dynamic effects like steering should be considered separately.