Flight Test of an Adaptive Configuration Optimization System for Transport Aircraft. Meeting Paper AIAA-1999-0831, Research Engineering, NASA Dryden Flight Research Center

Gilyard, Glenn B. and Georgie, Jennifer and Barnicki, Joseph S. (1999) Flight Test of an Adaptive Configuration Optimization System for Transport Aircraft. Meeting Paper AIAA-1999-0831, Research Engineering, NASA Dryden Flight Research Center.

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Abstract

A NASA Dryden Flight Research Center program explores the practical application of real-time adaptive configuration optimization for enhanced transport performance on an L-1011 aircraft. This approach is based on calculation of incremental drag from forced-response, symmetric, outboard aileron maneuvers. In real-time operation, the symmetric outboard aileron deflection is directly optimized, and the horizontal stabilator and angle of attack are indirectly optimized. A flight experiment has been conducted from an onboard research engineering test station, and flight research results are presented herein. The optimization system has demonstrated the capability of determining the minimum drag configuration of the aircraft in real time. The drag-minimization algorithm is capable of identifying drag to approximately a one-drag-count level. Optimizing the symmetric outboard aileron position realizes a drag reduction of 2-3 drag counts (approximately 1 percent). Algorithm analysis of maneuvers indicate that two-sided raised-cosine maneuvers improve definition of the symmetric outboard aileron drag effect, thereby improving analysis results and consistency. Ramp maneuvers provide a more even distribution of data collection as a function of excitation deflection than raised-cosine maneuvers provide. A commercial operational system would require airdata calculations and normal output of current inertial navigation system; engine pressure ratio measurements would be optional.

EPrint Type:	Other
Keywords:	L-1011 aircraft
Subjects:	(01 - 09) Aeronautics: (02) Aerodynamics Aircraft/Project: L-1011 (01 - 09) Aeronautics: (03) Air Transportation And Safety
ID Code:	1256
Deposited On:	05 Febuary 2007
Additional Information:	13 pages. 37th American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics Aerospace Sciences Meeting and Exhibit, Reno, Nevada, January 11-14, 1999.