In cooperation with Liebherr Aerospace, the Institute of System Dynamics and Control (SR) is researching torque-based flight control and its integration into the overall dynamics of flexible aircraft. In contrast to irreversible flight control with position-controlled rudders, which is the state of the art in large transport aircraft, torque-controlled rudders include a load reduction function, as a rudder controlled in this way actively deflects in the event of disturbances such as gusts and thus reduces load peaks. SR is developing and testing corresponding control concepts for electromechanical rudder actuators (EMAs), which are considered a promising technology for future, more resource-efficient transport aircraft. SR is also conducting joint research with the Institute of Flight Systems Technology (FT) on a combination of torque control and life-saving operation of EMAs.
