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A piloted simulation of helicopter air combat to investigate effects of variations in selected performance and control response characteristicsA piloted simulation study investigating handling qualities and flight characteristics required for helicopter air to air combat is presented. The Helicopter Air Combat system was used to investigate this role for Army rotorcraft. Experimental variables were the maneuver envelope size (load factor and sideslip), directional axis handling qualities, and pitch and roll control-response type. Over 450 simulated, low altitude, one-on-one engagements were conducted. Results from the experiment indicate that a well damped directional response, low sideforce caused by sideslip, and some effective dihedral are all desirable for weapon system performance, good handling qualities, and low pilot workload. An angular rate command system was favored over the attitude type pitch and roll response for most applications, and an enhanced maneuver envelope size over that of current generation aircraft was found to be advantageous. Pilot technique, background, and experience are additional factors which had a significant effect on performance in the air combat tasks investigated. The implication of these results on design requirements for future helicopters is presented.
Document ID
19870020108
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Technical Memorandum (TM)
Authors
Lewis, Michael S.
(NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Mansur, M. Hossein
(Army Aviation Research and Development Command Moffett Field, Calif., United States)
Chen, Robert T. N.
(NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Date Acquired
September 5, 2013
Publication Date
August 1, 1987
Subject Category
Aircraft Stability And Control
Report/Patent Number
USAAVSCOM-TM-87-A-3
NASA-TM-89438
A-87147
NAS 1.15:89438
Accession Number
87N29541
Funding Number(s)
PROJECT: RTOP 505-61-51
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.
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