Expert: Paul Soderman - 2/19/2010

Question
Dear Sir;

what is the difference between Gimbal Control and Thrust Vectoring Nozzle? and what is the advantages and disadvantages in using Gimbal and Thrust Vectoring?

Answer
Thrust vectoring is a general term for directing an engine thrust in a direction non-parallel to the flight direction.  This can be done many ways such as by rotating the nozzle, rotating the engine, moving vanes in the exhaust, or even varying the thrust between two engines such that the total thrust is vectored in some direction.

Gimbal control is one mechanism for thrust vectoring.  The nozzle, usually a rocket nozzle, is designed to rotate about two perpendicular axes to give pitch control in two planes.  A gyroscope uses gimbals (pivots) to remain steady while the support frames are rotated.

Since gimbal control is a form of thrust vectoring, your question about advantages and disadvantages is unclear.  I suppose we could say that gimbal control is quite simple compared to other forms of thrust vectoring, but each design may have unique requirements that make one form of thrust vectoring superior for that application.
Paul