Bens Stuff Flashcards
(32 cards)
What is a disadvantage of high wing aircraft?
Passengers can’t see into the window
High wing designs can obstruct passenger views.
What are the advantages of high wing aircraft?
- Easier to load cargo
- Better ground clearance
- Higher CoG
- Heavier design - landing gear cannot go in the wing
High wing designs provide practical benefits for cargo and ground clearance.
What is a disadvantage of low wing aircraft?
Higher stall speed
Low wing aircraft are generally less stable due to their design.
What are the advantages of low wing aircraft?
- Lower weight
- Passengers can see conventional canard aircraft
- Easier to maintain engine
- Tricycle design allows landing gear to go inside the wing
Low wing designs offer benefits in weight and maintenance.
What does T/C ratio refer to in aircraft design?
The ratio of the thickness of the wing to its chord
T/C ratio impacts aerodynamic performance.
What is the purpose of a GANTT Chart in aircraft design?
To organize the design stages
GANTT charts help visualize project timelines.
What is the typical break-even period for aircraft costs?
8-9 years
This timeframe can vary based on various factors.
What are the two types of weight in aircraft design?
- Fixed weight
- Variable weight
Fixed weight is mission-dependent while variable weight changes with mission requirements.
What does the term ‘static margin’ refer to?
The distance between the center of gravity (CoG) and the neutral point
Static margin affects aircraft stability.
What is the effect of a forward CoG?
More stable but less responsive
Forward CoG can lead to higher stall speeds.
What does the NACA 4 digit code represent?
Wing thickness and camber specifications
The code helps in identifying wing characteristics.
How is pitch stability controlled in an aircraft?
By the horizontal tail
The horizontal tail generates a force to maintain balance.
What does ‘lateral stability’ refer to?
Stability around the roll axis
Lateral stability is crucial for maintaining level flight.
True or False: A higher dihedral angle improves lateral stability.
True
Dihedral angles enhance lift and improve stability.
What is the significance of the taper ratio in aircraft design?
It affects aerodynamic efficiency and structural integrity
Taper ratios help in managing weight distribution.
Fill in the blank: A _______ CoG location leads to pitch instability.
backwards
A backwards CoG makes the aircraft less stable.
What does the formula SM = Xp - Xc represent?
It relates to the center of gravity (CG) and loading conditions of an aircraft.
Xp = position of the center of pressure, Xc = position of the center of gravity.
What does CG stand for in aviation?
Center of Gravity.
It is the point where the weight of an aircraft is balanced.
What are the limits of Center of Gravity (CG)?
Forward CG - mi
mi refers to the minimum index or margin for safe flight.
What is the definition of equivalent airspeed?
It is the airspeed at which an aircraft would fly at standard atmospheric conditions.
It accounts for the effects of altitude and temperature.
List the characteristics of a Conventional Tail.
- light
- simple
- stable
- easy trim
Conventional tails are the most common type of tail structure in aircraft.
What is a Cruciform Tail?
A tail design that is mid-height and compromises between T-tail and conventional tail.
It is lighter than a T-tail.
What is a V Tail?
A tail design where 2 surfaces act as both elevator and rudder.
It is lighter but harder to control due to unwanted roll/yaw coupling.
What is a Y-Tail used for?
Used in pusher prop aircraft.
It limits takeoff angle of attack (AOH) and shifts CG rearwards.
