Evaluation of Numerator Lead Effects on Aircraft Handling Qualities.
Abstract
Results of a combined analytical/flight test evaluation to investigate the effects of short period zero (T theta 2) on aircraft handling qualities are presented. Two optimal pilot models were used for the analytical portion. 1/T theta 2 was varied from 0.1 to 10 for each 4 different short period configurations. Flight testing was accomplished in the variable stability NT-33A aircraft, over a range of 1/T theta 2 values at one short period configuration. A pitch tracking task was used to generate RMS pitch errors for both the analytical and flight test phase. Cooper-Harper ratings were also collected during the flight test. Analytical results showed similar trends for all short period configurations, with pilot tracking task performance degrading at low 1/T theta 2 values. The bandwidth criterion was of limited use in predicting handling qualities levels based on T theta 2 variations alone. DC gain variations produced minimal differences in pilot performance. Overall evaluation results indicate that T theta 2 placement is an important factor in short period handling qualities and should be included in future revisions to MIL-F-8785C.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1986
- Accession Number
- ADA179388
Entities
People
- David W. Eidsaune
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology