sUAS Loading and Performance Flashcards
7 cards from real RPC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 sUAS Loading and Performance flashcards as text
A remote pilot observes that one motor on a quadcopter is running noticeably hotter than the others during a loaded flight. This most likely indicates:
Answer: An asymmetric CG causing that motor to compensate with extra power
An off-center CG forces one or more motors to produce more thrust continuously to maintain level flight, causing those motors to run hotter and wear faster.
How does wind speed affect the power requirements of a hovering sUAS?
Answer: Wind increases power requirements as the flight controller makes constant corrections to maintain position
Even in hover, wind forces the flight controller to continuously adjust motor speeds to maintain position, increasing average power consumption and reducing endurance.
The manufacturer's performance data for an sUAS is typically based on which standard conditions?
Answer: Sea level, 59°F (15°C), 29.92 in Hg, no payload
Manufacturer performance data is standardized at ISA (International Standard Atmosphere) conditions: sea level, 59°F (15°C), 29.92 in Hg pressure, typically without payload unless specified.
A remote pilot must land an overloaded sUAS immediately after noticing the gross weight exceeds limits. What is the primary risk during this landing?
Answer: Increased descent rate and potential hard landing or structural failure
An overloaded sUAS has motors near or at their thrust limits, making controlled descent difficult and increasing the risk of rapid uncontrolled descent or structural failure on landing.
Which sUAS component weight is typically INCLUDED in 'basic empty weight' according to manufacturer documentation?
Answer: Permanently installed battery pack
Basic empty weight includes all permanently installed equipment including fixed battery packs; removable items like cameras and external sensors are considered payload.
During preflight planning, a remote pilot calculates that the sUAS will consume 80% of the battery during the planned mission. After adding an unanticipated 0.3-lb sensor, what should the pilot do?
Answer: Recalculate endurance accounting for the additional weight before flight
Additional weight increases power consumption, meaning the recalculated mission may now exceed 100% battery capacity; the pilot must replan before flight to ensure safe battery reserves.
What does 'load factor' mean in the context of sUAS operations during maneuvering flight?
Answer: The multiple of gravitational force (G-force) acting on the aircraft structure during maneuvers
Load factor is the ratio of aerodynamic lift to aircraft weight, expressed as G-forces; aggressive maneuvers increase load factor and structural stress beyond the static weight alone.