Aircraft handling qualities and pilot-induced oscillation tendencies with actuator saturation

A pilot/vehicle analysis technique is offered that can provide predictions of handling-qualities levels and pilot-induced oscillation rating levels in single-axis tracking tasks, with linear or nonlinear vehicle dynamics. The technique is applied to the three vehicle configurations evaluated in the series of flight tests sponsored by the U.S. Air Force that are identified as HAVE LIMITS. The ability of the analysis technique to provide excellent quantitative predictions of the effects of actuator rate saturation on the handling qualities and pilot-induced oscillation susceptibility of the airc raft configurations is demonstrated. An interactive computer code is discus sed that automates much of the pilot/vehicle analysis.