pry-promo.gif

What’s the Difference Between Pitch, Roll, and Yaw?

June 12, 2014
Vehicles that are free to operate in three dimensions, such as aircraft and submarines, can change their attitude and rotation about the three orthogonal axes centered on the vehicle’s center of gravity — the longitudinal, vertical, and horizontal axes. Motion about the longitudinal axis is termed roll and in aircraft determines how much the wings are banked. Motion about the perpendicular axes is called yaw and for aircraft it determines which way the nose is pointed.

Download this article in .PDF format

Vehicles that are free to operate in three dimensions, such as aircraft and submarines, can change their attitude and rotation about the three orthogonal axes centered on the vehicle’s center of gravity — the longitudinal, vertical, and horizontal axes. Motion about the longitudinal axis is termed roll and in aircraft determines how much the wings are banked. Motion about the perpendicular axes is called yaw and for aircraft it determines which way the nose is pointed. (Note: Aircraft do not necessarily fly in the same direction as the nose is pointed if there are significant winds.) Motion about the lateral axis is called pitch and it’s a measure of how far an airplane’s nose is tilted up or down.

Cars also experience pitch, roll, and yaw, but the amounts are relatively small and are usually the result of the suspension reacting to turns, accelerations, and road conditions.

Sponsored Recommendations

How the Parvalux Modular Range Can Help with Your Next Project

March 6, 2025
At Parvalux we can help you configure a solution to test for your project very quickly. We will dispatch your order within 72 hours.

What is a PMDC motor?

March 6, 2025
Shop high-quality PMDC motors at Parvalux. With a compact design and impressive performance, our permanent magnet DC motors are a popular choice.

The Different Types of Gearboxes

March 6, 2025
There are many types of gearboxes to choose from when creating a solution and with increased torque demands they have become significant.

Food Production: How SEW-EURODRIVE Drives Excellence

Feb. 18, 2025
Optimize food production with SEW-EURODRIVE’s hygienic, energy-efficient automation and drive solutions for precision, reliability, and sustainability.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Machine Design, create an account today!