Flight Control System Development Using Simulation – an Integrated Approach

Simulation is the technique by which a physical system can be represented mathematically by a computer program for the solution of a problem. Computing speed and software quality advances over the last 20 years have made flight simulation particularly effective in modeling the flight environment, and it is now an integral part of the aviation scene in the civil, military, manufacturing, and research fields. Aeronautical standards suggest performing piloted simulations during Flight Control System (FCS) development. As a minimum, the following simulations shall be accomplished: (a) piloted simulations using computer simulation of the FCS prior to hardware availability, and (b) piloted simulations using actual FCS hardware prior to first flight [1]. Compared to the flight environment, simulation gives close control of the conditions under investigation, and allows specific flight situations, some of which are rare or hazardous, to be available on demand. Compared to the use of aircraft for these activities, simulation causes no pollution, noise or other disturbance. For all but the simplest aircraft, flight simulation is also substantially less expensive than the use of the aircraft itself. Finally, simulators can be used at intensive rates of operation by day and night, and can carry out any exercise or function which is included in their data base irrespective of location, weather, and time of day or season of the year. With rapid advancements in avionics systems, advanced cockpit controls, advanced cockpit displays, flyby-wire technology and more, the need to move expediently from concept to certification is a fundamental requirement for a successful aircraft development project. The use of