emsvitil
Well Known Member
What's the ideal trim tab size and location?
This is for a movable tab that isn't just tacked onto the end of the control surface.
Mainly for an add-on tab for ailerons and rudders.
Elevators are already designed, so really don't want to deal with the elevator.
(other than why 1 tab and not 2)
A small tab needs to deflect more, and I would think be draggier because of that. But it weighs less and needs less structural change (added spar section) and thus less weight.
A large tab would be the opposite.
Also with a larger tab you might be able to keep the control linkage internal (even less drag)
So what size is ideal?
Percentage of control surface chord?
Percentage of control surface width?
Does control tab aspect ratio matter?
Does location matter? inside, outside or middle ?
Although putting the rudder tab on top might help if you put the servo in the balance horn to balance some of the weight.
Just curious, can't seem to find anything on the internet...........
Thanks
This is for a movable tab that isn't just tacked onto the end of the control surface.
Mainly for an add-on tab for ailerons and rudders.
Elevators are already designed, so really don't want to deal with the elevator.
(other than why 1 tab and not 2)
A small tab needs to deflect more, and I would think be draggier because of that. But it weighs less and needs less structural change (added spar section) and thus less weight.
A large tab would be the opposite.
Also with a larger tab you might be able to keep the control linkage internal (even less drag)
So what size is ideal?
Percentage of control surface chord?
Percentage of control surface width?
Does control tab aspect ratio matter?
Does location matter? inside, outside or middle ?
Although putting the rudder tab on top might help if you put the servo in the balance horn to balance some of the weight.
Just curious, can't seem to find anything on the internet...........
Thanks