Flight Test Validation of Optimal Input Design Using Pilot Implementation

Abstract

A new technique for designing piloted optimal flight test inputs for aerodynamic parameter estimation is described . Flight tests were done on the F-18 High Angle of Attack Research Vehicle (HARV) to validate the technique. Analysis of the flight test data indicated that the optimal input designs resulted in a 17-70% improvement in the accuracy of all estimated aerodynamic parameters. compared to compound doublet inputs. This work demonstrated the feasibility and practical utility of the optimal input design technique for pilot implementation.