Future challenges in V/STOL flight propulsion control integration

A survey of propulsion control requirements forming part of an advanced V/STOL control requirements study has to date determined, among other findings: (1) that the dependence of V/STOL flying qualities on propulsive lift makes it necessary to identify propulsion control requirements early in a development program; (2) that V/STOL controls of the future should relieve the pilot of control functions and elevate him to the position of a flight operations manager, with substantial gains in capability and/or safety; and (3) that research is required to define the V/STOL control system reliability requirements and specific component reliability allocations. An interactive, integrated design process for the realization of these objectives is also described.