Question

Aileron reversal speed can be increased by

• A. increasing the offset distance between the aerodynamic center and center of twist
• B. increasing the offset distance between the C.G. of the airplane and center of twist
• C. increasing the stiffness of the wing
• D. increasing the offset distance between the aerodynamic center and C.G of the airplane

Hint:

Aileron reversal happens at high speeds when wing twist negates aileron input — stiffer wings delay this.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Solution: Aileron reversal speed is a critical aspect of aircraft stability and control, especially at high speeds. Increasing the aileron reversal speed means improving the aircraft's ability to maintain control at higher speeds before the control effectiveness of ailerons reverses. To achieve this, the following aspects can be considered:

• Stiffness of the Wing: By increasing the stiffness of the wing, the aileron reversal speed can be significantly increased. This is because a stiffer wing resists twisting under aerodynamic loads, reducing the aeroelastic effect that can lead to control reversal. This is the correct option among the given choices.

The other options involve changing offsets like the aerodynamic center, center of gravity, or center of twist. While these might influence other aspects of flight dynamics or structural behavior, they do not directly increase the aileron reversal speed as effectively as increasing wing stiffness does. Therefore, the correct approach is to enhance the structural integrity and stiffness of the wing.