Aerowerx
Well-Known Member
In this other thread, someone mentioned pumping a liquid around to adjust aircraft trim.
I think this is an intriguing idea, worth further investigation.
What are the advantages/disadvantages of each method?
A trim tab introduces extra drag, and is relatively more complex mechanically. With liquid ballast, you can route the tubing anywhere, so I would say it is mechanically simpler. The problem is the liquid would probably be heavier. One big advantage with liquid ballast is that once trimmed, the drag would be "optimum".
For liquid you would need a reversible pump, or two pumps. And some type of check valve to stop back flow. There could be a rocker switch mounted on the control stick to turn the pump and valve on and off.
I think this is an intriguing idea, worth further investigation.
What are the advantages/disadvantages of each method?
A trim tab introduces extra drag, and is relatively more complex mechanically. With liquid ballast, you can route the tubing anywhere, so I would say it is mechanically simpler. The problem is the liquid would probably be heavier. One big advantage with liquid ballast is that once trimmed, the drag would be "optimum".
For liquid you would need a reversible pump, or two pumps. And some type of check valve to stop back flow. There could be a rocker switch mounted on the control stick to turn the pump and valve on and off.
