A control surface controller force measurement system for an aircraft is provided
and includes a control surface interface for positioning the aerodynamic control
surfaces on an aircraft. The control surface interface transfers mechanical force
to an articulated crank, which supplies the flight control system with the desired
position of the control surface. The articulated crank has a first mechanical link
that is pivotable about a first pivot and a second mechanical link interconnecting
the control surface interface to the first mechanical link. The second mechanical
link is pivotable with respect to the control surface interface at a second pivot.
A force transducer interconnects the first and second mechanical links independent
of the second pivot such that the mechanical force applied to the control surface
interface is represented by an electrical signal output of the force transducer.