Development of a Real-Time Transport Performance Optimization Methodology

Gilyard, Glenn (1996) Development of a Real-Time Transport Performance Optimization Methodology. Technical Report NASA TM-4730, Research Engineering, NASA Dryden Flight Research Center.

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Abstract

The practical application of real-time performance optimization is addressed (using a wide-body transport simulation) based on real-time measurements and calculation of incremental drag from forced response maneuvers. Various controller combinations can be envisioned although this study used symmetric outboard aileron and stabilizer. The approach is based on navigation instrumentation and other measurements found on state-of-the-art transports. This information is used to calculate winds and angle of attack. Thrust is estimated from a representative engine model as a function of measured variables. The lift and drag equations are then used to calculate lift and drag coefficients. An expression for drag coefficient, which is a function of parasite drag, induced drag, and aileron drag, is solved from forced excitation response data. Estimates of the parasite drag, curvature of the aileron drag variation, and minimum drag aileron position are produced. Minimum drag is then obtained by repositioning the symmetric aileron. Simulation results are also presented which evaluate the affects of measurement bias and resolution.

EPrint Type:	NASA Technical Memorandum
Keywords:	Aircraft performance, Airfoil and wing aerodynamics, Cambered wings, Drag reduction, Fuel consumption, Flight optimization, F-111 aircraft, Optimal control, Optimization
Subjects:	(01 - 09) Aeronautics: (02) Aerodynamics Aircraft/Project: Miscellaneous (01 - 09) Aeronautics: (01) Aeronautics - General Aircraft/Project: F-111 Aircraft/Project: F-15 PSC (01 - 09) Aeronautics: (03) Air Transportation And Safety
ID Code:	186
Deposited On:	15 July 2004
Additional Information:	18 pages. Presented as AIAA 96-0093 at the 34th AIAA Aerospace Sciences Meeting and Exhibit, Reno, Nevada, January 15–18, 1996.