T&E 4105 Modern Flight Control Systems
Course Description
The intent of the course is to provide a “top-level” introduction to Modern Flight Control Systems (FCS’s). Basic elements of modern FCS’s are reviewed along with typical basic structures and system elements for modern fly-by-wire FCS’s. Modern analysis and simulation tools are introduced and demonstrated using MATLAB® and SIMULINK®, the advanced engineering computer programs. Students use the basics of MATLAB and the associated Control system Toolbox during the course. Handling qualities criteria and special issues related to modern complex FCS’s such as Pilot Induced Oscillations (PIO’s) are reviewed. The need for systematic closed-loop handling qualities evaluations is emphasized. The effects of common control system feedback implementations are presented using MATLAB and the NTPS variable stability ground simulator (VSGS). Command path shaping and nonlinearities in the command path, such as response limiters, time delay and rate limiting are also introduced and discussed. Course learning objectives are reinforced when students complete two related mini-design/evaluation projects on the VSGS. The objective of the course is to provide a high level of understanding of the Principles, Issues, and Test Methods related to modern FCS’s not to produce FCS designers. Daily review tutorials, oral exams (2) and a final written exam are included in the course.
(Desirable Prerequisite: Completion of T&E 4104)
Anticipated Student Learning Objectives
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will have a basic understanding of the Principles, Issues, and Test Methods related to modern FCS’s. He/she will:
Be familiar with and understand
1. Linear control system principles.
2. Modern FCS handling qualities issues.
3. Test Methods (Analysis and Evaluation)
4. Conduct of Appropriate Evaluation Tasks for
aircraft with modern, higher-order, FCS’s.
Know
5. The basic principles underlying modern FCS’s and
the test methods used to evaluate aircraft with
modern, complex FCS’s.
Sequence of Instruction
Overview/ Introduction
Basic Building Blocks (MATLAB Intro)
Block diagrams
Analysis Tools/ Stability Criteria
Augmentation Effects
Special MFCS Features
Handling Qualities Issues
Evaluation Methods/ Innovations
Intro to Variable Stability Ground Simulator (VSGS)
VSGS Mini-Project
Review of In-Flight Simulators
Oral (1) and Written (1) Exams
Texts and Reference Materials
NTPS, Vol. V, “Modern Flight Control Systems”
“Feedback and Control Systems”, Schaum’s Outlines
MATLAB (with Control System Toolbox),
Instructional Methodology
Lectures, Solutions/ Examples using MATLAB,
Mini-Project on VSGS
Process of Evaluation
Oral Report of Mini-Project
Oral (1), Written Exams (1)