What are the advantages of Fly-By-Wire control?
1. Reduction of the electric and hydraulic power required to operate the control surfaces
2. Lesser sensitivity to lightning strike
3. Direct and indirect weight saving through simplification of systems
4. Immunity to different interfering signals
5. Improvement of piloting quality throughout the flight envelope
A Fly-By-Wire (FBW) system represents an advanced method of controlling aircraft flight, where electronic signals replace traditional mechanical inputs. Instead of direct manipulation of physical controls, such as conventional control columns and rudder pedals, pilots interface with flight deck controls like side sticks (as seen in Airbus aircraft). These inputs are then translated into electrical signals by transducers, which are further enhanced and processed by onboard computers. The processed commands are then transmitted to a servo valve, which, in turn, regulates the movement of a hydraulic actuator, ultimately controlling the aircraft's flight surfaces.
FBW systems can be lighter than a conventional system as FBW does not require the heavy control cables. Including FBW provides a significant reduction in fuel consumption.
The FBW systems also provide flight envelope protection by preventing the pilot pitching the aircraft beyond the stalling angle of attack. It will also allow the pilot to operate the controls positively up to the 2.5g limit without fear of overstressing the aircraft.
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