Control Surfaces and Circuits

Abstract

Control systems and circuits are the mechanisms through which aircraft are controlled. In order for a system to be considered airworthy, control inceptors generally follow a standardized layout and must follow defined structural standards. Circuits must not be prone to jamming under “normal” operational conditions, and should, generally, be “intuitive” to a pilot. This chapter discusses the recommended standards and layouts, together with common problems and pitfalls.

Equipment malfunctions will also occur, particularly during subsystem development testing. In manned flight we must regard every malfunction, and, in fact, every observed peculiarity in the behavior or a system as an important warning of potential disaster. Only when the cause is understood and a change to eliminate it has been made and verified, can we proceed with the flight program.

—F.J. Bailey, Jr., NASA