Pilot-model-in-the-loop simulation environment to study large aircraft dynamics

Abstract

Effects of aeroservoelasticity on the manual control of large aircraft are investigated through a pilot modelling approach based on the modified optimal control model. A synopsis of modelling techniques is presented followed by the description of the adopted method. A simulation environment suitable for investigating pilot–vehicle dynamics in the longitudinal axis has been developed which couples an aeroelastic model of a large transport aircraft with the modified optimal control pilot model. The pilot model parameter selection was based on limiting the bandwidth. A comparison between a conventionally designed height hold autopilot and the pilot model control in continuous turbulence is made to demonstrate this simulation capability.