The automatic Pilot

Question 1

The two types of gyros that are used for the autopilot?

Answer 1

1. Rate gyro

2. Displacement gyro

Question 2

The two reasons why are rate gyros superior to displacement gyros?

Answer 2

1. Rapid detection of small attitude changes is possible as the rate of change is sensed and not the amount of change
2. Smooth corrective action is possible without overcorrecting because signals to the correcting servos are at a rate proportional to that at which attitude changed

Question 3

Considering combined displacement and rate autopilots, the type of gyro responsible for correcting overshoot problems are?

Answer 3

The rate gyro

Question 4

Considering combined displacement and rate autopilots, the type of gyro responsible for overshoot problems are?

Answer 4

The displacement gyro

Question 5

explain the 5 stages of inner loop control:

Answer 5

1. Input or Attitude Sensing:

Rate gyros are mounted in each of the aircraft’s axes in order to sense a disturbance in either pitch, roll or yaw using precession feedback.

2. Error Sensing

In this function a transducer converts the mechanical movement of the gyro into an electrical error signal.

3. Signal Processor

This converts and amplifies the error signal into an output to a servomotor actuator attached to the relevant control surface

4. Servomotor Actuator

This unit, attached to a flying control, uses hydraulic, electric or pneumatic power to move the control.

5. Feedback

Probably one of the more important parts of the system, feedback is essentially a response which prevents excessive control movement.

Question 6

The type of autopilot that allow for the input of external navigation and other data?

Answer 6

The Outer Loop system

Question 7

Inputs of raw data to the outer loop system can be possible via the?

Answer 7

The autopilot MCP( Mode Control Panel)