Active Controller Performance Requirements

Recent research has documented the benefits of using Active Controllers to replace mechanical force feel systems for primary pilot controls. Although the benefits are well understood, the requirements for designing Active Actuators are poorly documented. The lack of any documented requirements makes it difficult for a program manager to consider Active Controllers for their program. This paper proposes a series of requirements for the mechanical design and inner loop software of an Active Controller. If a controller is designed to meet these proposed requirements, it will be capable of generating effective dynamic tactile cues. Requirements for the outer loop tactile cueing software (i.e. the force feel model) are not defined in this paper since that software could be unique to each application. Methods for testing each requirement with minimal test equipment as well as rational for each requirement are also included in this paper.