In this paper, research on high-lift automation at Berlin Technical University is presented. A basic automatic slat/flap setting function is described that is designed to serve as a fallback solution for a future advanced automatic slat/flap system. Validation testing of that basic function was conducted in an Airbus A330 full-flight-simulator. Pilot-in-the-loop tests were performed, and time histories, workload data and pilot comments on the system were recorded. Preliminary results presented in this paper show that with additional information on the Primary Flight Display and an adjustment of flight procedures, safe flight operations with the basic automatic slat/flap setting function are possible. When compared to an abnormal landing with a jammed flap lever during manual slat/flap control, pilot workload is reduced by automatic slat/flap setting. Preliminary conclusions drawn from pilot-in-the-loop testing of ASFS-B are that safe flight operations with automatic slat/flap setting are possible in a standard mission. ASFS-B slat/flap retraction characteristic is different from pilot's slat/flap retraction behaviour in that slat/flap retraction by ASFS-B occurs at lower speeds. Since the minimum slat/flap retraction speeds in themselves already represent a margin towards aircraft minimum speeds, ASFS-B's earlier retraction in theory does not compromise flight safety but enhances climb performance. Not surprisingly, evaluation of pilot workload data shows that averaged workload is considerately higher in ASFS-B operations than in current normal slat/flap operations, main influence being reduced flexibility in aircraft energy management during approach. However, average workload is significantly reduced compared to manual slat/flap operations in abnormal situations, the workload goal that was aimed for could thus be achieved. Pilots commented positively on system performance, but noted that additional training, fine-tuning and display adaptation would be necessary before ASFS-B could become operational. Further simulator testing is necessary to expand the statistical database for ASFS-B performance and workload evaluation, and also to define cockpit procedures for ASFS-B operations.
Pilot-in-the-loop testing of automatic slat/flap setting functions
Pilot-in-the-Loop-Prüfung von automatischen Vorflügel-/Klappeneinstellfunktionen
2009
10 Seiten, 10 Bilder, 2 Tabellen, 6 Quellen
Conference paper
English