Helicopter inverse simulation for workload and handling qualities estimation

Leacock, Garry R. (2000) Helicopter inverse simulation for workload and handling qualities estimation. PhD thesis, University of Glasgow.

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Abstract

Helicopter handling qualities are investigated using inverse simulation as
the method of providing state and control information for the appropriate
quantitative metrics. The main aim of the work was to develop a more
comprehensive and versatile method of quantifying handling qualities levels
using the available inverse algorithm "Helin v". Subsequently, the assessment of
the helicopter model inherent in Helinv, "Helicopter Generic Simulation",
(HGS) for its suitability to handling qualities studies was paramount. Since the
Helinv inverse algorithm operates by initially defining a mathematical flight test
manoeuvre for the vehicle to "fly", considerable time was given to modelling
suitable handling qualities assessment manoeuvres. So-called "attitude
quickness" values were then calculated thus providing an initial objective
insight into handling qualities level of the vehicle under test. Validation of the
tasks formed an integral part of successfully fulfilling the flight test manoeuvre
development objective.
The influence of the human is captured by the inclusion of a pilot model
and the development of a novel method of parameter estimation, supplements
the overall objective of modifying Helinv results to achieve potentially more
realistic responses and thus correspondingly more realistic handling qualities. A
comparative study of two helicopters, one based on the Westland Lynx
battlefield/utility type and the other, a hypothetically superior configuration
effectively demonstrates the capability of inverse simulation to deliver results
adequate for initial handling qualities studies. Several examples are used to
illustrate the point. Helinv has been shown to be versatile and efficient and can
be used in initial handling qualities studies. The advantages of such a technique
are clear when it is seen that actual flight testing, ground based or airborne is
extremely costly, as the flight test manoeuvres must be representative of real
life, reproducible and of course, as risk free as possible. Many inverse simulation runs and handling qualities calculations have been carried out for
different helicopter configurations and manoeuvres thus illustrating the
advantages of the technique and fulfilling all the aims mentioned above.

Item Type: Thesis (PhD)
Qualification Level: Doctoral
Subjects: T Technology > TL Motor vehicles. Aeronautics. Astronautics
Colleges/Schools: College of Science and Engineering > School of Engineering > Autonomous Systems and Connectivity
Supervisor's Name: Thomson, Dr Dougie
Date of Award: 2000
Depositing User: Ms Dawn Pike
Unique ID: glathesis:2000-4947
Copyright: Copyright of this thesis is held by the author.
Date Deposited: 11 Feb 2014 14:26
Last Modified: 22 May 2014 16:01
URI: https://theses.gla.ac.uk/id/eprint/4947

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