Implementation using JSBSim.
The Control Characteristics of Aircraft Employing Direct-Lift Control
The theory is developed for the control characteristics of aircraft in which direct lift is commanded directly by the pilots' stick. Basic requirements are established for acceptable response characteristics; of particular importance is the location at which direct lift acts relative to the centre of gravity, the aerodynamic centre, and manoeuvre point. The affective line of action of the control lift can be controlled by mechanical interconnections between the conventional pitch control and direct-lift systems. Potential benefits of direct-lift control include improved precision in landing large aircraft, more effective control of gust effects, and reduced possibility of stalling.
Project MAGIC CARPET: Advanced Controls and Displays for Precision Carrier Landings
Maritime augmented guidance with integrated controls for carrier approach and recovery precision enabling technologies (MAGIC CARPET) is an enhanced set of flight control laws and Head-Up Display symbology for F/A-18E/F/G aircraft which seek to reduce the unique pilotage skills required for shipboard landings. Integrated Direct Lift Control significantly simplifies ‘ball flying’ by allowing for repeatable and precise flightpath changes using lift as directly commanded via longitudinal stick displacements. Additionally, ‘Delta Path’ control mode adds a feature that allows the aircraft to capture, maintain, and return to the 'ideal' 3.5 degree glideslope, nearly hands off. This essentially de-couples the glideslope task from the lineup task. The enhanced HUD symbology provides much improved direct pilot feedback cues on the magnitude of glideslope and lineup corrections. Recent shipboard flight test completed aboard the USS Bush (CVN-77) in April 2015 confirmed a 50% reduction in touchdown dispersion as well as greatly reducing overall carrier approach workload as observed through real-time pilot feedback. Test results, pilot comments and lessons learned will be presented.