Engineering topics

Tilak, N. W.

Publications and source records attributed to Tilak, N. W..

2 records

NASA NTRS1975

An in-flight simulation of lateral control nonlinearities

An in-flight simulation program was conducted to explore, in a generalized way, the influence of spoiler-type roll-control nonlinearities on handling qualities. The roll responses studied typically featured a dead zone or very small effectiveness for small control inputs, a very high effectiveness for mid-range deflections, and low effectiveness again for large inputs. A linear force gradient with no detectable breakout force was provided. Given otherwise good handling characteristics, it was found that moderate nonlinearities of the types tested might yield acceptable roll control, but the best level of handling qualities is obtained with linear, aileron-like control.

Ellis, D. R.↗

NASA NTRS1975

An in-flight investigation of nonlinear roll control

An in-flight simulation was undertaken to study the piloting problems associated with a type of nonlinear control effectiveness which is characteristic of spoiler roll control systems. Typically, the initial response is small or even zero, followed by a narrow region of highly effective control, and a final one of moderate effectiveness. Results for the landing flare and touchdown, which turned out to be the critical flight phase, indicate that a substantial amount of dead zone and changing effectiveness can be tolerated, but the best level of handling is obtained with linear, aileron-like control.

Ellis, D. R.↗