Use of active control technology to improve ride qualities of large transport aircraft

Analyses, construction and flight testing of two systems: Beta-vane and Modal Suppression Augmentation System (MSAS), which were developed to suppress gust induced lateral accelerations of large aircraft, are described. The 747 transport was used as the test vehicle. The purpose of the Beta-vane system is to reduce acceleration levels at the dutch roll frequency whereas the function of the MSAS system is to reduce accelerations due to flexible body motions caused by turbulence. Data from flight test, with both systems engaged shows a 50 to 70 percent reduction in lateral aft body acceleration levels. Furthermore, it is suggested that present day techniques used for developing dynamic equations of motion in the flexible mode region are limited.