Recent advances and applications in the prediction of pilot acceptance of aircraft flying qualities

A recently developed digital computer program capable of predicting pilot-vehicle performance, pilot model parameters, and pilot acceptance (in terms of Cooper ratings) is used to study the longitudinal flying qualities of a large aircraft. The predictions are then compared with actual in-flight simulation data and with fixed-base pilot describing function measurements. The complete package represents the largest and most recent set of data available for the pitch axis control task. The results are very promising and clearly demonstrate the utility of modern optimization techniques (used to predict man-machine performance) and identification methods (used to validate the predictions). Next, the development of a Roll Paper Pilot, similar in concept to the above Pitch computer program is outlined. The source of this development is a recent set of data obtained with a large amplitude moving-base simulator, and the resulting digital computer program can be used to evaluate aircraft lateral-directional flying qualities. Again the results are very encouraging. Finally, a brief overall summary of the status of development, applications to date, and other uses of automated man-machine digital computer programs is given. Future developments are suggested, with emphasis on non-aircraft systems.