Aerospace Actuators 3

Book excerpt: This book is the third in a series dedicated to aerospace actuators. It uses the contributions of the first two volumes to conduct case studies on actuation for flight controls, landing gear and engines. The actuation systems are seen in several aspects: signal and power architectures, generation and distribution of hydraulic or mechanical power, control and reliability, and evolution towards more electrical systems. The first three chapters are dedicated to the European commercial airplanes that marked their era: Caravelle, Concorde, Airbus A320 and Airbus A380. The final chapter deals with the flight controls of the Boeing V-22 and AgustaWestland AW609 tiltrotor aircraft. These address concerns that also apply to electromechanical actuators, which should be fitted on more electrical aircraft in the future. The topics covered in this series of books constitute a significant source of information for individuals and engineers from a variety of disciplines, seeking to learn more about aerospace actuation systems and components.