Helicopter Flight Control Research - A Demanding Application of Piloted Simulation

摘要

Piloted simulation has been in use at RAE Bedford as a powerful tool for research in helicopter handling qualities since 1970. The most recent studies have addressed the application of advanced control systems to enhance agility in Nap of the Earth (NOE) flight. Handling qualities research places particular demands on many components of the simulator, including software environment and computing, cockpit design and simulator operation. The requirements in terms of provision of adequate visual and motion cues are especially severe for agile NOE flight. In this Memorandum, the history of helicopter simulation at Bedford is described. The lessons which have been learned, and the special requirements which have been identified, are discussed. Finally, the new Advanced Flight Simulator (AFS), due to enter service at Bedford during 1985 is reviewed from the perspective of helicopter handling qualities research.