A Preliminary Look at an Optimal Multivariable Design for Propulsion-Only Flight Control of Jet-Transport Aircraft

Azzano, Christopher P. (1992) A Preliminary Look at an Optimal Multivariable Design for Propulsion-Only Flight Control of Jet-Transport Aircraft. Technical Report NASA CR-186014, Research Engineering, NASA Dryden Flight Research Center.

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Abstract

Control of a large jet-transport aircraft without the use of conventional control surfaces was investigated. Engine commands were used to attempt to recreate the forces and moments typically provided by the elevator, ailerons, and rudder. Necessary conditions for aircraft controllability (disturbability) were developed pertaining to aircraft configuration such as the number of engines and engine placement. An optimal linear quadratic regulator controller was developed for the Boeing 707-720, in particular, for regulation of its natural dynamic modes. The design employed a method of assigning relative weights to the natural modes, for example, phugoid and dutch roll, for a more intuitive selection of the cost function. A prototype pilot command interface was then integrated into the loop based on pseudorate command of both pitch and roll. Closed-loop dynamics were evaluated first with a batch linear simulation and then with a real-time high fidelity piloted simulation. The NASA research pilots assisted in evaluation of closed-loop handling qualities for typical cruise and landing tasks. Recommendations for improvement on this preliminary study of optimal propulsion-only flight control are provided in this report.

EPrint Type:	NASA Contractor Report
Keywords:	Aircraft and engine modeling, Aircraft handling qualities, Flight control systems, Modal regulator design, Propulsion-enhanced flight control
Subjects:	(01 - 09) Aeronautics: (08) Aircraft Stability And Control Aircraft/Project: Boeing 720
ID Code:	1073
Deposited On:	01 September 2006
Additional Information:	55 pages. This report was prepared during an intern program. NASA Techical Monitor: Glenn Gilyard, Dryden Flight Research Facility, Edwards, CA 93523.