Name: Estilong, Zandro T.

Course/Year/Section: BSAeE 5-1

Date of Submission: Nov. 26, 2020
Activity No.: 2 Module No.: 2

1. Autopilot
- An autopilot is a system used to guide an aircraft without hands-on control
by a pilot. Autopilot does not replace pilot, but rather they help them in operating
the aircraft. This allows them to concentrate on broader aspects of operations. In
1912, the first successful autopilot was created by Lawrence Sperry. Sperry’s
invention was knowns as “gyroscopic automatic pilot,” or nicknamed “George” by
the pilots. Autopilot was necessary to bigger planes. Generally, it controls the
movement of the aircraft around the center of gravity and it directs the aircraft
according to safety parameters.
2. Three-Axis control of Autopilot
- A three-axis autopilot controls the aircraft about the longitudinal, lateral, and
vertical axes. Three different servos actuate ailerons, elevator, and rudder. More
advanced systems often include a vertical speed and/or indicated airspeed hold
mode. Advanced autopilot systems are coupled to navigational aids through a
flight director. The autopilot system also incorporates a disconnect safety feature to
disengage the system automatically or manually. These autopilots work with
inertial navigation systems, global positioning systems (GPS), and flight computers
to control the aircraft. In fly-by-wire systems, the autopilot is an integrated
component.

3. Advantage and disadvantage of Autopilot (Cite examples/scenarios)

- The advantages of autopilot systems are, Increases passenger comfort,
Automation can relieve pilots from repetitive or non-rewarding tasks for which
humans are less suited and Good automation reduces workload. While the
disadvantages of autopilot systems are basically when it failed during flight it
could turn into a large accident that could end up in casualties. Basic manual and
cognitive skills will drastically decline due to comfort, many pilots may fail when
emergency task comes and manually maneuvered aircraft is a must. Also data
inputs can be altered and hacking is a possibility.

Subject Code/ Name: AE 514 – Aircraft Avionics Page No.: 1