Estimation of longitudinal aerodynamic coefficients and comparison with wind-tunnel values

Some recent experience at Ames Research Center in the estimation of aerodynamic coefficients for the Lear-Jet and the Augmentor Wing Jet STOL Research Aircraft is reviewed. The coefficients estimated from flight data are compared with values based on large-scale wind-tunnel tests. The results obtained by the regression and quasilinearization identification techniques are also compared. The regression method generally provides the lower standard deviation in the coefficient estimates and provides the better fit to the wind-tunnel values. The addition of nonlinear terms in the aerodynamic equations decreases the difference between the estimated and measured time histories but also increases the standard deviation in the estimated coefficient values.