1. What is the Elevator Stick Force Calculation?

The elevator stick force calculation determines the force required by the pilot to move the control stick, based on the gearing ratio of the control system and the hinge moment of the elevator surface.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• Stick Force — Force exerted on the control column (N)
• Gearing Ratio — Mechanical advantage of control system (1/m)
• Hinge Moment — Moment acting on the control surface (N·m)

Explanation: The formula calculates the direct relationship between the mechanical advantage provided by the control system and the moment that must be overcome at the control surface.

3. Importance of Stick Force Calculation

Details: Accurate stick force calculation is crucial for aircraft control system design, ensuring proper pilot workload and aircraft handling characteristics throughout the flight envelope.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter gearing ratio in 1/m and hinge moment in N·m. Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero for accurate calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is gearing ratio in aircraft controls?
A: Gearing ratio represents the mechanical advantage in the control system, relating control surface movement to pilot input movement.

Q2: What factors affect hinge moment?
A: Hinge moment is influenced by control surface size, shape, airspeed, angle of attack, and deflection angle.

Q3: Why is stick force important in aircraft design?
A: Proper stick force characteristics ensure aircraft controllability, pilot comfort, and compliance with aviation regulations for handling qualities.

Q4: How does stick force vary during flight?
A: Stick force varies with airspeed, altitude, control surface deflection, and aircraft configuration changes.

Q5: Are there limitations to this calculation?
A: This calculation provides a basic estimate and may not account for friction, control system elasticity, or aerodynamic effects in complex flight conditions.