Pitch Rate Flight Control for the F-16 Aircraft to Improve Air-To-Air Combat.
Abstract
Digital simulations were developed to implement a pitch rate control system for the F-16 aircraft engaged in aerial gunnery. First, the EASY Modelling and Analysis Program by Boeing Computer Services was adapted to implement a longitudinal axis F-16 aircraft, flight control system, and pilot model. Comparison of closed loop system responses indicated a proposed pitch rate flight control configuration would improve target tracking performance. The Terminal Aerial Weapon Delivery Simulation (TAWNDS) program by McDonnell Douglas Corporation was adapted for the F-16 aircraft. An non-linear six-degree-of-freedom aircraft model, multi-axis flight control system, and multi-axis pilot model were developed to demonstrate target tracking capabilities. Eight different air-to-air scenarios were developed to simulate evasive encounters with a F-4 target aircraft. Time history target tracking errors indicated the improved tracking performance of the proposed pitch rate flight control configuration over the present normal acceleration configuration of the F-16 aircraft. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1977
- Accession Number
- ADA055417
Entities
People
- Michael A. Marchand
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology