Aircraft control surface methods

A method of controlling a hydraulic actuator to move a control surface of an aircraft, the actuator moving the control surface towards a first position in response to fluid flow through a first supply line, the actuator moving the control surface towards a second position in response to fluid flow through a second supply line, the method comprising:

• moving a blocking member to an open position to allow hydraulic fluid to move through the first and second supply lines;
• controlling fluid flow through the first and second supply lines to move the control surface between the first and second positions;
• moving the blocking member to a closed position to block hydraulic fluid from moving to and from the hydraulic actuator;
• and
• directing hydraulic fluid from the second supply line into the first supply line through a bypass line when the blocking member is closed to recycle at least a portion of the hydraulic fluid back into the first supply line.

A method of controlling a hydraulic actuator to move a control surface of an aircraft, the actuator moving the control surface towards an extended position in response to fluid flowing through an extend supply line, the actuator moving the control surface towards a retracted position in response to fluid flowing through a retract supply line, the method comprising:

• moving a blocking valve to an open position to allow hydraulic fluid to move through the extend and retract supply lines;
• controlling fluid flow through the extend and retract supply lines to move the control surface between the extended and retracted position;
• when a condition arises, moving the blocking valve to a closed position to block the flow of hydraulic fluid in the extend and retract supply lines;
• and
• bypassing hydraulic fluid from the retract supply line into the extend supply line when the blocking valve is closed to recycle at least a portion of the hydraulic fluid back into the extend supply line.