Proposal of the experimental simulation method for handling qualities evaluation

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present analysis and primary evaluation of different control laws implemented on experimental indirect (fly‐by‐wire) flight control system designed for perspective general aviation aircraft.

Design/methodology/approach

The control law tests have been accomplished on the flight simulation stand equipped with side‐stick, throttle lever and flight instrument display. Every evaluator was caring out 2‐4 five min instrument flights (IR) according to command shown on the screen. PZL‐110 general aviation aircraft properties and seven modes of control system operation were modeled and examined.

Findings

Results of evaluation by 45 commercial pilots are analyzed and handling qualities of the small aircraft equipped with the indirect flight control system (fly‐by‐wire) have been examined. In this way, the most convenient control law was chosen for design the user‐friendly, human‐centered, simplified software‐based flight control system.

Practical implications

The result of research can be implemented on real indirect flight control system dedicated to general aviation aircraft.

Originality/value

This paper presents the practical approach for analysis of handling qualities of general aviation aircraft equipped with indirect flight control system. This kind of works concern to military and transport airplanes are known, however there are no published work in the area of small aircraft so far.

Citation

Tomczyk, A. (2008), "Proposal of the experimental simulation method for handling qualities evaluation", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 80 No. 3, pp. 253-261. https://doi.org/10.1108/00022660810873683