Angle-of-Attack Computation Study
Abstract
The report discusses methods of computing angle of attack by influence using combinations of data from presently available, on-board sensors, thereby eliminating the need for external vanes or probes. Equations were derived from which computed angle of attack could be extracted. Those equations that were impractical from a mechanization standpoint were eliminated, leaving three candidate methods. These three methods were then analyzed with respect to errors arising from mathematical simplifications and errors due to imperfect sensor information. Two of the candidate methods provide inertial angle of attack, and will provide acceptable accuracy for low-performance aircraft applications. The third method will provide a high-quality, air-mass-related angle of attack. A mechanization of a high-quality angle of attack system using a small, special purpose digital computer is described. Using measurements of normal acceleration, longitudinal acceleration, elevator position, flap position, throttle position, airspeed, Mach, and dynamic pressure, the system will provide a high-quality angle of attack measurement applicable to any high- performance aircraft and competitive with current vane and probe transducers.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1969
- Accession Number
- AD0869887
Entities
People
- Joseph B. Dendy
- Kent G. Transier
Organizations
- Sperry Corporation