Elevator Chord Length Given Stick Force Calculator

Formula Used:

\[ c_e = \frac{F_s}{G \cdot C_{he} \cdot 0.5 \cdot \rho \cdot V^2 \cdot S_e} \]

Stick Force (Fs):

Gearing Ratio (G):

1/m

Hinge Moment Coefficient (Che):

Density (ρ):

kg/m³

Flight Velocity (V):

m/s

Elevator Area (Se):

m²

Elevator Chord Length (ce):

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1. What is Elevator Chord Length?

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 system design that affects the aerodynamic forces and control responsiveness.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following formula:

\[ c_e = \frac{F_s}{G \cdot C_{he} \cdot 0.5 \cdot \rho \cdot V^2 \cdot S_e} \]

Where:

\( c_e \) — Elevator Chord Length (m)
\( F_s \) — Stick Force (N)
\( G \) — Gearing Ratio (1/m)
\( C_{he} \) — Hinge Moment Coefficient
\( \rho \) — Density (kg/m³)
\( V \) — Flight Velocity (m/s)
\( S_e \) — Elevator Area (m²)

Explanation: This formula calculates the required elevator chord length based on the stick force and various aerodynamic parameters to achieve proper control response.

3. Importance of Elevator Chord Calculation

Details: Accurate elevator chord calculation is crucial for aircraft control system design, ensuring proper control forces, stability, and pilot comfort during flight operations.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all values in appropriate units. Stick force in Newtons, gearing ratio in 1/meter, density in kg/m³, velocity in m/s, and elevator area in m². All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is elevator chord length important?
A: Elevator chord length directly affects the hinge moment and control forces, influencing aircraft handling characteristics and pilot workload.

Q2: What is a typical range for elevator chord length?
A: Elevator chord length typically ranges from 20-40% of the horizontal stabilizer chord, depending on aircraft design requirements.

Q3: How does flight velocity affect elevator chord calculation?
A: Higher flight velocities require smaller elevator chord lengths to maintain appropriate control forces, as aerodynamic forces increase with velocity squared.

Q4: What factors influence hinge moment coefficient?
A: Hinge moment coefficient depends on elevator airfoil shape, deflection angle, gap seals, and balance characteristics.

Q5: Can this calculator be used for other control surfaces?
A: While the principle is similar, different control surfaces (ailerons, rudder) may have different formulas and considerations.