The evaluation of several agility metrics for fighter aircraft using optimal trajectory analysisSeveral functional agility metrics, including the combat cycle time metric, dynamic speed turn plots, and relative energy state metric, are used to compare turning performance for generic F-18, X-29, and X-31-type aircraft models. These three-degree-of-freedom models have characteristics similar to the real aircraft. The performance comparisons are made using data from optimal test trajectories to reduce sensitivities to different pilot input techniques and to reduce the effects of control system limiters. The turn performance for all three aircraft is calculated for simulated minimum time 180 deg heading captures from simulation data. Comparisons of the three aircraft give more insight into turn performance than would be available from traditional measures of performance. Using the optimal test technique yields significant performance improvements as measured by the metrics. These performance improvements were found without significant increases in turn radius.
Document ID
19930064333
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Ryan, George W., III (PRC, Inc. Edwards, CA, United States)
Downing, David R. (Kansas Univ. Lawrence, United States)
Date Acquired
August 16, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1993
Publication Information
Publication: In: AIAA Atmospheric Flight Mechanics Conference, Monterey, CA, Aug. 9-11, 1993, Technical Papers (A93-48301 20-08)
Publisher: American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics