1. What is the Vertical Tail Moment?

The Vertical Tail Moment is the moment produced by the vertical tailplane of an aircraft due to the side force acting on it. It represents the rotational effect that the vertical tail exerts on the aircraft's center of gravity.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( N_v \) — Vertical Tail Moment (N·m)
• \( \ell_v \) — Vertical Tail Moment Arm (m)
• \( Y_v \) — Vertical Tail Side Force (N)

Explanation: The negative sign indicates that the moment acts in the opposite direction to the side force, providing stability and control to the aircraft.

3. Importance of Vertical Tail Moment Calculation

Details: Accurate calculation of vertical tail moment is crucial for aircraft stability analysis, control system design, and ensuring proper directional stability during flight maneuvers.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the vertical tail moment arm in meters and the vertical tail side force in Newtons. Both values must be valid numerical inputs.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is there a negative sign in the formula?
A: The negative sign indicates that the moment produced by the vertical tail acts in the opposite direction to the side force, providing restoring moments for stability.

Q2: What factors affect the vertical tail moment arm?
A: The moment arm depends on the distance between the centroid of the vertical tail and the aircraft's center of gravity, which varies with aircraft configuration and loading.

Q3: How does side force develop on the vertical tail?
A: Side force on the vertical tail develops due to sideslip angles, control surface deflections, or asymmetric flight conditions.

Q4: What are typical values for vertical tail moment?
A: Values vary significantly by aircraft type and flight conditions, but typically range from hundreds to thousands of Newton-meters.

Q5: How is this calculation used in aircraft design?
A: This calculation is essential for determining vertical tail sizing, evaluating directional stability, and designing control systems for yaw control.