Toward Validating a Generic Rotorcraft Model Structure for the Emerging Concepts Technology Applications Categories. Abstract only

Abstract : The high projected cost associated with rotorcraft flight testing and training in the New Millennium needs to be minimized using emerging technology applications. In the past, each service has employed the tendency to develop individual models to support training applications for specific aircraft. Reductions in recent DoD procurement budget imply that multi-service partnerships will be very important in the New Millennium. Testing and training cost reductions may be realized using standardization and automation options in the form of generic structure aircraft models. In theory, the generic simulation structure can be readily set-up to represent a variety of air vehicle models to support testing and training requirements. The ability to select the model level of complexity required for specific applications is also desirable. Comparing a comprehensive engineering rotorcraft model to a reduced order real-time model of the same vehicle will allow the user to address selective fidelity issues. For any model, the issues of verification, validation, and accreditation are very important. Basic validation involves comparing the analytical model response to flight test data. This paper examines the fidelity of a generic structure rotorcraft model in the low airspeed flight regime. Specific low speed mission applications are also examined.