An Introduction to Multivariable Flight Control System Design
Abstract
This document provides background, theory, and examples for full envelope manual flight control system design. An overview of aircraft dynamics and flying qualities is given to provide a basic understanding of the manual flight control problem. Details of available control design and analysis methods are presented to give the reader the required theoretical background . An inner/ outer loop control structure is proposed to achieve full envelope flight control designs. Generalized controls are implemented through the use of a control selector. An inner equalization loop is used to linearize the input/output behavior of the aircraft across the flight envelope. A robust outer loop achieves the desired level of flying qualities. This approach provides a versatile framework for the application of advanced multivariable control theory to aircraft control problems. The engineer has the freedom to choose any method which achieves the design goals. The utility of this controller structure is demonstrated in its successful application to full envelope manual flight control problems for the VISTA F-16 test aircraft and a supermaneuverable F-18 fighter. The results of linear robustness and performance analysis as well as nonlinear simulations are presented for the design examples.... Flight Control, Robust Control, Structured Singular Value Synthesis, Flying Qualities.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1992
- Accession Number
- ADA260408
Entities
People
- Andrew G. Sparks
- James M. Buffington
- Richard J. Adams
- Siva S. Banda
Organizations
- Wright Laboratory