Messerschmitt-boelkow-blohm Gesellschaft MIT Beschraenkter Haftung

Udo Carl

Homayoun Dilmaghani

A fly-by-wire control system for the elevator assemblies of an aircraft is quipped with a mechanical auxiliary control (8) and with a synchronizing coupling (10). The electrical control links connecting the controlling computers to the elevator drives are each equipped with an override mechanism (4,2). A mechanical cable link (9) of the auxiliary mechanical control (8) connects a pilot operated mechanical control member such as a pitch control wheel having a detent to the respective override mechanism. This combination makes sure that the pilot initiated control signals have performance priority over any other signals at all times. The synchronizing coupling (10) is arranged between the mechanical control links leading to the respective elevator flap drives to assure a symmetric flap deflection on both sides at high speed flight under failure conditions. Centering springs (12) assure a centered position of the flap if the respective flap side signal transmission linkage (4.4) is affected by a mechanical failure (rupture) at low speed.

Method and system for controlling the elevator assemblies of an aircraft

An elevator control system especially for an aircraft such as an airplane, s equipped with an electrically controllable elevator flap drive system for the elevator flap on each side of the aircraft. Additionally, the system is equipped with a mechanically controlled auxiliary drive system which is responsive to a hand wheel operated by the pilot. A single hand wheel has mechanical connecting links to the elevator flaps on both sides of the aircraft. Monitoring features enable the pilot to test the auxiliary mechanical drive system without actually switching on that system. The auxiliary mechanically operated system is functional even if all other power systems failed, since a ram air turbine is provided for generating the hydraulic pressure for driving the auxiliary system.

Elevator control system especially for an aircraft

A vertical rudder control and drive system for an aircraft, such as an aiane, is equipped with electrically controllable vertical rudder drive systems on each side of the aircraft. Additionally, the control system is equipped with a mechanically controllable auxiliary drive system for the operation of the vertical rudder in response to foot pedals operated by the pilot when there should be a failure in the electrically controlled drive systems. A mechanical control signal transmitting link is provided between the foot pedals and the hydro-mechanical drive for the vertical rudder. Monitoring features enable the pilot to test the mechanical drive system without actually using that system in flight. Preflight tests may be performed.

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Bremen, Germany

Udo Carl