Flight Controls

Question 1

What type of controls control the primary aerodynamic surfaces?

Answer 1

Push/pull rod ailerons/elevator
Cable rudder (mechanical trim)

Question 2

Describe the ailerons in as much detail possible

Answer 2

Are CFRP top/bottom shells with riding foam core, and inner GFRP skin.
Are differential ailerons with an aerodynamic balance (same as DA40).
Has 4 hinges secured by a roll pin and lock nut.

Question 3

Describe the flaps in as much detail as possible

Answer 3

2 CFRP shells with GFRP inner shell and rigid foam core.
Made of an inner section attached to wing centre with 4 hinges, and an outer section with 6 hinges connected to wing.

The inboard flap uses an tongue on the outboard end that fits into a groove on the inboard end of the outboard flap, this provides flap following if there is a separation of one of the control rods.

Question 4

What flap settings are there and the associated speeds?

Answer 4

Approach 137kt

Landing 111kt

Question 5

Describe the variable elevator stop. What is the main purpose for it?

Answer 5

As soon as 25% power is exceeded (aprx 14”) an electronic linear actuator will move a moveable stop to limit the up deflection to 13, controlled by 2 switches (1 each throttle).
Below 25% power, full deflection of 15.5 is possible.
An amber stick limit light will inform of a malfunction.
Is in case of engine failure, at a low power setting, it prevents a high AoA.

Question 6

Why are there 2 actuating levers for the elevator trim?

Answer 6

Right: friction damper and prevents flutter in case of mechanical failure of mechanical trim
Left: connects to long flexible cable adjusted by pilot

Question 7

Describe in detail the rudder

Answer 7

Made up of left/right GFRP shells with rigid foam core.

A mass balance is attached to the leading edge near the top.

Question 8

Describe the rudder trim system

Answer 8

Flexible cable attaches the hand wheel to actuator assembly.
Two operating rods attach the actuator assembly to the trim tab control