Question

Name three mechancial methods by which flight control systems may be actuated.

Answer 1

Three mechanical methods by which flight control systems may be actuated are hydraulic systems, mechanical linkages, and fly-by-wire systems.

Step-by-step explanation:

Flight control systems can be actuated using several mechanical methods:

1. Hydraulic Systems: In this method, control surfaces are moved using fluid pressure. Hydraulic actuators are commonly used in large aircraft to provide powerful and precise control.
2. Mechanical Linkages: This method uses mechanical devices such as pushrods, cables, and bellcranks to transmit pilot inputs to the control surfaces. It is commonly found in smaller aircraft and older aircraft designs.
3. Fly-by-Wire: This is a modern method where control inputs from the pilot are transmitted electronically, and actuators move the control surfaces based on these inputs. Fly-by-wire systems provide enhanced stability and can incorporate sophisticated flight control laws.