Elevator Chord Length Given Hinge Moment Coefficient Calculator

Formula Used:

\[ c_e = \frac{HM}{C_{he} \times 0.5 \times \rho \times V^2 \times S_e} \]

Hinge Moment (HM):

N·m

Hinge Moment Coefficient (C_he):

Density (ρ):

kg/m³

Flight Velocity (V):

m/s

Elevator Area (S_e):

m²

Elevator Chord Length (c_e):

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1. What is Elevator Chord Length?

The Elevator Chord Length is the chord length of an elevator measured from its hinge line to trailing edge. It is a critical parameter in aircraft control surface design that affects the hinge moment and control forces required.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ c_e = \frac{HM}{C_{he} \times 0.5 \times \rho \times V^2 \times S_e} \]

Where:

\( c_e \) — Elevator Chord Length (m)
\( HM \) — Hinge Moment (N·m)
\( C_{he} \) — Hinge Moment Coefficient
\( \rho \) — Density of flow (kg/m³)
\( V \) — Flight Velocity (m/s)
\( S_e \) — Elevator Area (m²)

Explanation: This formula calculates the elevator chord length based on the hinge moment, aerodynamic coefficients, flight conditions, and elevator geometry.

3. Importance of Elevator Chord Length Calculation

Details: Accurate calculation of elevator chord length is crucial for aircraft control system design, ensuring proper control forces, stability, and maneuverability characteristics.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter hinge moment in N·m, hinge moment coefficient, density in kg/m³, flight velocity in m/s, and elevator area in m². All values must be positive and valid.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the significance of hinge moment coefficient?
A: The hinge moment coefficient represents the aerodynamic characteristics of the control surface and affects the control forces required by the pilot.

Q2: How does flight velocity affect elevator chord length?
A: Higher flight velocities generally require smaller elevator chord lengths to maintain the same hinge moment, as the dynamic pressure increases with velocity squared.

Q3: What are typical values for elevator chord length?
A: Elevator chord length varies by aircraft type but typically ranges from 20-40% of the horizontal stabilizer chord length.

Q4: How does density affect the calculation?
A: Higher air density increases the dynamic pressure, which affects the hinge moment and consequently the required elevator chord length.

Q5: Can this calculator be used for other control surfaces?
A: While the principle is similar, different control surfaces may have different aerodynamic characteristics and would require appropriate coefficients.