Canard Configuration and Sum of Moments

In summary, the aerodynamics student is trying to find the sum of the moment about the center of gravity for a canard configuration. They need to find the equations for forces and moments. The student has identified that M is moment, L is lift, and l is moment arm for the L components. They think this is all that is needed.
  • #1
mpm
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I'm in an aerodynamics class, and I have this canard configuration I'm trying to figure out for a final exam.

I need to find the sum of the moment about the center of gravity.

I may cannot be helped without the drawing being posted.

So far this is what i have:

Mcg = Mac - (lcg + lw)Lw + (lc-lcg)Lc

CMcg=-aw*alpha(hn-hcg) + Cmo

Each letter after the first letter (ie Mcg) is a subscript. So cg would be the subscript. I just don't know how to do that on here.

Anyway, my remaining equations which I can't seem to figure out is to derive expressions for hn and Cmo

Can anyone possibly help me with this or is more info needed?
 
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  • #2
use and [/ sub] for subscript, but remove space between / and sub.

I am guessing that M is moment, L is lift, and l is moment arm for the L components. And subsript 'c' refers to canard, and 'cg' center of gravity.

Please explain the other terms.

There should be N equations for N unknowns, which included equations for forces (e.g. lift and weight, drag and thrust) and moments.
 
  • #3
LC is lift due to canard

LW is lift due to wing

Alpha is the angle of attack for the wing.

aw is lift curve slope of the wing

hn is the distance to the neutral point

hcg is the distance to center of gravity

I believe you are right on the moment arms being the l's.

CMcg is the slope of the moment curve I believe.

VH is the volume ratio

I think this is all that is needed. I may try and scan a picture of the diagram that I have if more is still needed.

Just let me know if more is needed.

Thanks in advance for all the help.
 

1. What is a canard configuration?

A canard configuration is a type of aircraft design where the horizontal stabilizer is placed in front of the main wing, rather than behind it. This configuration is also known as a "tail-first" design.

2. How does a canard configuration affect the aircraft's stability?

A canard configuration can improve an aircraft's stability by shifting the center of lift forward and providing more control over the aircraft's pitch. However, this configuration can also decrease stability at low speeds, so it must be carefully designed and balanced.

3. What are the advantages of using a canard configuration?

Some potential advantages of using a canard configuration include improved maneuverability, better control at high angles of attack, and increased lift at low speeds. This design can also reduce the need for heavy control surfaces on the main wing, leading to a lighter and more efficient aircraft.

4. What is the sum of moments in relation to a canard configuration?

The sum of moments, also known as the pitching moment, is a measure of the balance of forces acting on an aircraft's horizontal stabilizer. In a canard configuration, this moment is critical for maintaining stability and controlling the aircraft's pitch.

5. How is the canard configuration used in different types of aircraft?

The canard configuration is used in a variety of aircraft, including fighter jets, commercial airplanes, and even drones. It is often employed in supersonic aircraft to improve stability and control at high speeds, but can also be found in smaller, slower aircraft for its other benefits such as improved maneuverability.

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