One would need to know the details on a case by case basis .. but to figure a computer-based trim by zones is pointless and loses the convenience of the computerised calculation. I would be very surprised to see the internal calcs done on a zone basis and, having paid a bunch of dollars for such a system, I would be dealing very severely with the software people. The output, however, might very well be presented on a zone basis either for compatibility with manual systems or just PSO/cabin crew convenience .. but that is quite a different animal.
For a trimsheet, the use of zones is only adopted to keep the physical size of the sheet and the number of trim lines under control. Every time the designer opts for zones, the envelope limits get compressed in the error analysis ..... and the operator's flexibility in loading reduces ....
Last edited by john_tullamarine; 20th Jun 2002 at 00:01.