Results of an Investigation of Propulsion Management Systems for Advanced Military Aircraft.
Abstract
A preliminary propulsion management system was defined and mechanized that will enable advanced aircraft to perform vertical plane mission segments involving optimization of both flight path and throttle position. Several optimum cruise and energy transition mission segments were computed for a baseline (F-4K) aircraft. A rapid, low-cost and versatile calculation procedure was developed to compute the optimum mission segments. This new procedure was based upon the well-known Rutowski technique. A comparison was made of typical, non-optimum, fixed throttle mission segments and optimum, variable throttle mission segments. This comparison revealed that substantial gains in overall mission performance can be effected by optimum flight path and throttle position control. Throttle control parameters were identified that can be measured on the aircraft and engine during flight and which serve as indicators of the optimum throttle position, thus avoiding the necessity of storing extensive throttle-position data on board the aircraft. A complete propulsion management system based upon the use of these parameters was defined and mechanized. It was concluded that the gain in overall aircraft mission performance made possible by introducing optimum throttle position control is sufficiently large, and the required propulsion management system is sufficiently simple, to warrant further study. Recommendations regarding the direction of this further effort are included. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1971
- Accession Number
- AD0894900
Entities
People
- Arthur N. Thomas
- Michael J. Wendl
- Rolland D. Turner
Organizations
- McDonnell Aircraft Corporation