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737 MAX’s flight control Part B: MCAS
Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS) was software added to compensate for the larger, more powerful engines installed onto the existing 737 MAX. This installation of larger engines changed the in-air flight characteristics of the aircraft. The flight control laws (CLAW) should be tuned properly to account for this deviation. However, the presumptive initial cause and sustained cause of the pilot loss of positive flight control is the MCAS.
The new CFM LEAP-1B engines were installed to match the progress made in Airbus propulsion systems. It provides a significant boost in propulsion of the Boeing 737 MAX higher to the wind, which could result in a nose-up pitch that leads the aircraft into stall.
Most airline transport category aircraft have two independent AoA sensors located in different positions depending on the manufacturer. These sensors rotate a mini-wing to measure the airflow direction. The AoA sensor provides data for the calculation of the aircraft attitude.
The output of the sensor was given as an input to the Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS). This flight control law was designed to enhance the pitch stability…
