What is an aircraft steering gear?
In the aviation field, the steering gear is an indispensable key component in the flight control system. Its function is to accurately control the movement of the aircraft's rudder surface by receiving instructions from the flight control computer, thereby adjusting the flight attitude and direction. This article will introduce in detail the definition, working principle, classification and recent popular technological developments of aircraft servos.
1. Definition and function of aircraft steering gear

The aircraft steering gear is an electric or hydraulically driven actuator, mainly used to control the movement of the aircraft's ailerons, rudders, elevators and other control surfaces. It is a core component in the flight control system and directly affects the aircraft's control performance and flight safety.
2. Working principle of aircraft steering gear
The working principle of aircraft steering gear can be divided into the following steps:
1.Signal input: The flight control computer (FCC) or the pilot sends control signals via the joystick.
2.signal processing: After the steering gear receives the signal, it is converted into mechanical movement through the internal circuit or hydraulic system.
3.Output execution: The steering gear drives the rudder surface to deflect, changing the flight status of the aircraft.
The following are common types of aircraft servos and their characteristics:
| Type | Drive mode | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electric steering gear | Motor drive | Fast response and high accuracy | Limited power |
| Hydraulic steering gear | Hydraulic drive | Large output and high reliability | The system is complex |
| Electro-hydraulic steering gear | electro-hydraulic mixing | Balance performance and reliability | higher cost |
3. Recent popular technologies and industry trends
In the past 10 days, hot topics in the aviation field have mainly focused on the application of intelligent steering gear technology and lightweight materials. The following are some hot topics:
| topic | Content overview | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Intelligent steering gear technology | AI algorithm optimizes steering gear response speed and improves flight efficiency | Aviation Technology Weekly |
| lightweight materials | Carbon fiber steering gear housing reduces weight and energy consumption | international aviation news |
| Drone steering gear innovation | The popularity of micro servos in consumer drones | Drone Technology Forum |
4. The future development direction of aircraft steering gear
With the advancement of aviation technology, aircraft servos are developing in the direction of intelligence, lightweight and high reliability. In the future, servos may integrate more sensors and adaptive algorithms to achieve more precise flight control. At the same time, the application of new materials and new processes will further reduce the weight and energy consumption of the steering gear.
In short, as the core component of the flight control system, the aircraft steering gear’s technological development is directly related to aviation safety and efficiency. From traditional hydraulic steering gear to modern electric intelligent steering gear, every breakthrough in technology brings new possibilities to the aviation industry.
check the details
check the details