Limited Investigation of Active Feel Control Stick System (Active Stick)

摘要

This report presents the results of Project Active Stick, a Limited Investigation of the Active Feel Control Stick System. The overall test objective was to perform a preliminary investigation into the potential for using an active feel control stick to perform system functions traditionally incorporated in the flight control computer design. This testing compared the open-loop response, handling qualities during operational tasks, and pilot-in- the-loop oscillation susceptibility of three g-command systems during pitch- only tasks. The three systems were programmed in the Variable Stability System of Calspan's LJ-25 Learjet In-flight Simulator which was the test bed for this program. The first g-command system contained no limit protection and was the baseline system. The second system was 'F-16 like' and contained angle-of- attack and load factor limiting features built into the flight control system. The third system started with the baseline system and utilized an active feel control stick to provide limit protection and flight envelope awareness. Based on a comparison of these systems, the test team explored the active feel control stick system's potential for practical applications.