Design of reversible control loading system for a fixed wing aircraft using X-Plane simulator

Abstract

This paper describes the qualification test guide (QTG) items made for a small, single engine, and commercial aircraft during the evaluation of simulator by any regulatory authority before the simulator can be used to train the student pilots. The test items described here are listed in Federal Aviation Regulations part 60. Out of those, the static control check tests are explained in detail since they need a control loading system to obtain its performance. The challenging task also is to compare the test results obtained by using the hardware control loader and the software made control loader by using commercial software called MATLAB/Simulink. Since this is a reversible control loading system, the artificial feel system for software control loader is created by making a second order transfer function called mass-spring-damper system. The feel system is created by keeping in consideration that there is only underdamping once the system is stabilized. The software control loader is designed by using a double integrator force feedback loop. The mathematical model presented in this paper showed good results in the actual experiments.