Flight Simulator Experiments on the Effects of Control System Dynamics to Airplane's Flying Qualities

Abstract

Fixed base flight simulator experiments were conducted to investigate effects of control system dynamics on the handling qualities of an airplane. Breakout forces and force gradient ratio to control displacement were changed mechanically by the ELECTRO-LOAD equipped to the simulator recently. Relationships between control forces and stick positions were measured, and both breakout forces and force gradient ratio were determined experimentally. These control system dynamics were changed parametrically in the flight simulator tests. The control of the longitudinal pitch angle was selected as the flight maneuver of the airplane. Time histories of both the pitch angle and the pilot control were obtained, and analyzed systematically. Good insight into the effects of the control system dynamics on the handling qualities of an airplane was obtained.