Final answer:
The rudder performs several functions in normal law, such as providing yaw control, assisting with roll control, particularly in engine asymmetry, and facilitating coordinated turns. Normal law also limits rudder movement to prevent overloading and ensure smooth aircraft handling.
Step-by-step explanation:
Functions of the Rudder in Normal Law
During flight, the rudder performs several critical functions that are managed by what is known as normal law in aircraft with advanced fly-by-wire systems, such as Airbus aircraft. The rudder's primary roles are to:
- Provide yaw control to counteract adverse yaw during turns.
- Assist with roll control, particularly during engine asymmetry, where it compensates for the yawing moment caused by differing thrust levels from the engines.
- Facilitate coordinated turns, where the rudder is used subtly to keep the turn balanced between the ailerons' roll input and the rudder's yaw input.
Additionally, in normal law, the rudder is limited in its movement to prevent structural overloading and to seamlessly integrate with other control surfaces, resulting in smooth and coordinated aircraft handling.