A Review on Flight Control and Actuation Systems

Abstract

The majority of modern aircraft depend heavily on flight control and actuation systems for stability, maneuverability, and overall safety. These systems control the motion of the control surfaces through various forms of actuation technologies, ranging from hydraulic, electromechanical, to electro-hydrostatic actuators. This research explores the principles of operation, structures, and uses of such actuators and how they assist in flight control. Along with this, fault-tolerant systems, management of redundancy, and future directions such as AI-driven flight control and more electric aircraft (MEA) are examined. As techniques are improved technically, the aviation industry is gradually shifting towards lighter, more dependable, and more efficient actuation systems, improving the overall aircraft performance and safety. The article delves into these changing directions and how they can have repercussions for future flight control practices.