Tag Archives: Aircraft

Weight on Wheels Proximity Switches

Weight on wheels (WoW) switches indicate whether the weight of an aircraft is resting on its wheels. This information reveals whether the aircraft is airborne or on the ground. WoW switches are important because they help to prevent accidents relating to the incorrect position of the landing gear, as well as protect the aircraft from
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3 Challenges in Landing Gear Design

1. Weight Landing gear typically makes up between three and six percent of the total weight of an aircraft. Even though fixed gear is typically lighter than retractable gear, it increases aerodynamic drag when the aircraft is in flight. To address the challenge of landing gear weight, designers use materials that are lightweight but strong.
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Flight Control: Sidestick vs. Yoke

Traditionally, pilots use a control yoke in front of them to control the plane. An alternative control method is the side stick, which sits to the side of the pilot. Each control method has both advantages and disadvantages for the pilot and crew. Side-Stick Technology Saves Space Control yokes are more cumbersome than side sticks
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