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Non-linearities in flight control systems

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  04 July 2016

C. Fielding  and
P. K. Flux
C. Fielding
Affiliation:
BAE Systems Warton, UK
P. K. Flux
Affiliation:
BAE Systems Warton, UK
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Abstract

Non-linear behaviour is usually undesirable for the operation of any system and it needs to be minimised in flight control systems in order to provide the pilot with a predictable and well-behaved aircraft. The non-linear response characteristics exhibited by all aircraft and their flight control systems can be characterised by using nonlinear functions to simulate and analyse their behaviour. This paper explores the types of physical non-linearities that exist in aircraft flight control systems and provides some examples. It describes how the non-linear stability might be analysed and addresses the subject of actuation systems modelling. The final section provides recommendations for minimising non-linear behaviour and gives some general guidelines on how to deal with non-linear characteristics.

Type
Research Article
Information
The Aeronautical Journal , Volume 107 , Issue 1077 , November 2003 , pp. 673 - 686
Copyright
Copyright © Royal Aeronautical Society 2003 

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