Developmental evaluation of a centrifuge flight simulator as an enhanced maneuverability flying qualities tool

Abstract

Significant improvements in high angle of attack aerodynamics, flight control systems and the use of thrust vectoring is providing current and anticipated aircraft with enhanced maneuverability. These aircraft generate unusual rates and accelerations which will severely affect pilot spatial orientation and situational awareness during air combat maneuvering. The developing technology of centrifuge flight simulation offers the prospect of ground-based flying qualities and human factors testing in this same environment. Centrifuge flight simulation technology, as implemented on the Dynamic Flight Simulator, has shown its value with F-14 flat spin and mishap investigations, preliminary enhanced fighter maneuverability studies, and physiological investigations in a realistic flight environment. Recent and current efforts are to expand this role for potential use as an enhanced maneuverability simulation tool. Specifically targeted for evaluation is the ability to perform piloted analyses of critical displays during high angle of attack enhanced maneuvering tasks. Improvements have been made to the Dynamic Flight Simulator motion base control and actuator quality, cockpit displays, data collection capability, and compatible tactical aircraft models. The evaluation involved analyzing improvements to motion fidelity and demonstrating the potential for addressing a broader class of aircraft research, development, test and evaluation issues. Limitations are separated into those inherent to the technology and those dependent on the Dynamic Flight Simulator implementation. Tradeoffs between control method and mission applications are shown. At B CCA CFS