Formula Used:
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The Stick Length formula calculates the length of the control stick required to achieve a specific stick force for a given hinge moment and deflection angles. It's a fundamental relationship in aircraft control system design.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: This formula establishes the relationship between the mechanical advantage of the control system and the forces required to move control surfaces.
Details: Proper stick length calculation is crucial for aircraft control system design, ensuring that pilots can exert appropriate forces to control the aircraft while maintaining adequate sensitivity and feedback.
Tips: Enter all values in appropriate units (N·m for hinge moment, N for stick force, radians for angles). All values must be positive and non-zero for accurate calculation.
Q1: Why is stick length important in aircraft design?
A: Stick length directly affects the mechanical advantage and force feedback that pilots experience, influencing aircraft controllability and pilot workload.
Q2: What are typical stick length values?
A: Stick length varies significantly between aircraft types, ranging from 0.2-0.5 meters for light aircraft to longer lengths for larger aircraft with different control configurations.
Q3: How does hinge moment affect stick force?
A: Higher hinge moments require either longer stick lengths or greater pilot force to achieve the same control surface deflection.
Q4: Are there limitations to this formula?
A: This formula provides a simplified linear relationship and may need adjustment for complex control systems with mechanical linkages, springs, or hydraulic assistance.
Q5: How is this used in actual aircraft design?
A: Aircraft designers use this relationship to optimize control system geometry, ensuring that control forces remain within acceptable limits throughout the flight envelope.