Preliminary Design of an Innovative Aircraft Weight & Balance Measurement System Based on Fiber Optic Sensors

Abstract

It is presented here the concept and the preliminary design of an On-Board Weight and Balance System, intended to provide a regional aircraft pilot with the actual values of the aircraft weight and center of gravity position. The system is based on the use of fiber optic sensors, integrated within the landing gear and able to measure the strain induced by the overall vehicle take-off weight, including fuel and payload (passengers and luggage).