Flight Test of Pilot-Aircraft Haptic Feedback System

Abstract

This research is focused on an innovative improvement of pilot-aircraft interaction and is targeted on small aircraft. Haptic feedback is performed by actuators mounted on an aircraft's controls. The purpose of the actuators on a control stick and pedals is stall warning and a pilot guiding to safe and economical flight regimes. The feedback system mediates airflow data as angles of attack and sideslip. The paper brings results of a flight test of the proposed system. Qualitative evaluation of the haptic feedback inflight is presented. Benefits of the system are presented on a sideslip during turning. Some recommendations for the haptic pilot-aircraft interaction are stated within the discussion of the flight test results.This research is focused on an innovative improvement of pilot-aircraft interaction and is targeted on small aircraft. Haptic feedback is performed by actuators mounted on an aircraft's controls. The purpose of the actuators on a control stick and pedals is stall warning and a pilot guiding to safe and economical flight regimes. The feedback system mediates airflow data as angles of attack and sideslip. The paper brings results of a flight test of the proposed system. Qualitative evaluation of the haptic feedback inflight is presented. Benefits of the system are presented on a sideslip during turning. Some recommendations for the haptic pilot-aircraft interaction are stated within the discussion of the flight test results.