APs typically control the helicopter along the roll and pitch axes (cyclic control) but also include yaw axis (pedal control)
Vertical and lateral modes can be engaged at the same time but the pilot needs to adjust power to maintain the speed by acting on the collective lever!
How does a helicopter autopilot work?
Today’s helicopter autopilots can be three-axis or four-axis systems
A three-axis system provides pitch, roll and yaw axis stabilization around the pilot’s desired attitude and heading reference
In a four-axis system there is also a collective axis, where the autopilot provides collective (i
e , power) control
What control system does a helicopter use?
While the majority of fixed-wing systems with AFCS use a parallel rotary servo control system, today’s helicopters with AFCS typically use a series linear actuator control system
If a collective axis is employed, it is typically controlled by a rotary servo
The linear actuators are usually installed in tubes called a control rod assembly
Most light single engine helicopters fly without automation systems while modern medium and large helicopters are designed to be flo…
Automatic control helicopter
A radio-controlled helicopter is model aircraft which is distinct from a RC airplane because of the differences in construction, aerodynamics, and flight training. Several basic designs of RC helicopters exist, of which some are more maneuverable than others. The more maneuverable designs are often harder to fly, but benefit from greater aerobatic capabilities.
A radio-controlled helicopter is model aircraft which is distinct
A radio-controlled helicopter is model aircraft which is distinct from a RC airplane because of the differences in construction, aerodynamics, and flight training. Several basic designs of RC helicopters exist, of which some are more maneuverable than others. The more maneuverable designs are often harder to fly, but benefit from greater aerobatic capabilities.
