Using problem-based exploratory training to improve pilot understanding of autopilot functions

Previous research indicated a need to improve pilot training with regard to understanding of autopilot logic and behavior, especially in non-routine situations. Therefore, we tested the effect of problem-based exploratory training on pilots’ understanding of autopilot functions. Using a moving-base flight simulator, general aviation pilots (n...

Autorotation Transfer of Training: Effects of Helicopter Dynamics

This paper analyzes the effects of the helicopter dynamics on pilots' learning process and transfer of learned skills during autorotation training. A quasi-transfer-of-training experiment was performed with 10 experienced helicopter pilots in the SIMONA moving-base flight simulator at Delft University of Technology. Pilots had to control an...

Time-Delay Margin and Robustness of Incremental Nonlinear Dynamic Inversion Control

Nonlinear dynamic inversion (NDI) is a nonlinear feedback linearization technique that has been widely applied to flight control systems [1,2]. Using state feedback and the inverted nonlinear system dynamics, NDI can significantly reduce controller development costs by avoiding gain scheduling and Jacobian linearization at a multitude of...

Eigenmode Distortion: A New Perspective on Motion Cueing Fidelity in Flight Simulation

Eigenmode distortion is a novel quantitative methodology developed to objectively evaluate motion cueing fidelity in flight simulation. It relies on an explicit coupling of linearized vehicle and Motion Cueing Algorithm dynamics. Modal analysis subsequently performed on this coupled system reveals the degree of distortion imposed by the Motion...

Between-simulator comparison of motion-filter order and break frequency effects on manual control

This paper investigates the interaction effects of motion filter order and break frequency on pilots’ manual control behavior and control performance using two simulators. Eighteen pilots performed the experiment in the Vertical Motion Simulator (VMS) at NASA Ames Research Center and 20 pilots in the SIMONA Research Simulator at Delft University...

Effects of Helicopter Dynamics on Autorotation Transfer of Training

This paper analyzes the effects of the helicopter dynamics on pilots’ learning process and transfer of learned skills during autorotation training. A quasi-transfer-of-training experiment was performed with 14 experienced helicopter pilots in a moving-base flight simulator. Two types of helicopter dynamics, characterized by a different...

Leans Illusion in Hexapod Simulator Facilitates Erroneous Responses to Artificial Horizon in Airline Pilots

Objective: We tested whether a procedure in a hexapod simulator can cause incorrect assumptions of the bank angle (i.e., the “leans”) in airline pilots as well as incorrect interpretations of the attitude indicator (AI). Background: The effect of the leans on interpretation errors has previously been demonstrated in nonpilots. In-flight,...

Long-Stroke Hydraulic Robot Motion Control With Incremental Nonlinear Dynamic Inversion

High precision motion control of hydraulic manipulators is challenging due to the highly nonlinear dynamics and model uncertainties typical for hydraulic actuators. This paper addresses the implementation of a novel sensor-based incremental nonlinear dynamic inversion control technique for a high-precision hydraulic force controller in existence...

The effect of steering-system linearity, simulator motion, and truck driving experience on steering of an articulated tractor-semitrailer combination

Steering systems of trucks consist of many linkages, which introduce nonlinearities that may negatively affect steering performance. Nowadays, it is possible to equip steering systems with actuators that provide artificial steering characteristics. However, before new steering systems are deployed in real vehicles, evaluation in a safe and...

Improved Stewart platform state estimation using inertial and actuator position measurements

Accurate and reliable estimation of the kinematic state of a six degrees-of-freedom Stewart platform is a problem of interest in various engineering disciplines. Particularly so in the area of flight simulation, where the Stewart platform is in widespread use for the generation of motion similar to that experienced in actual flight. Accurate...

A benchmark for fault tolerant flight control evaluation

A large transport aircraft simulation benchmark (REconfigurable COntrol for Vehicle Emergency Return ? RECOVER) has been developed within the GARTEUR (Group for Aeronautical Research and Technology in Europe) Flight Mechanics Action Group 16 (FM-AG(16)) on Fault Tolerant Control (2004 2008) for the integrated evaluation of fault detection and...

Role Identification of Yaw and Sway Motion in Helicopter Yaw Control Tasks

A set of experiments has been conducted to investigate the relative effect of translational and rotational motion cues on pilot performance. Two helicopter yaw control tasks were performed on the SIMONA: a yaw capture task and a target-tracking task with simulated turbulence. The yaw capture task was a repetition of a task performed previously...