Autonomy Demos and the Evolution of Optimally Crewed Vehicles

The integration of automation and autonomy into modern aircraft has significant potential to simplify many piloting tasks. On the other hand, poor integration of automation and autonomy systems with the human crew has sometimes led to unintended consequences. With the goal of improving human-machine integration in piloting tasks, Bell Textron has conducted several autonomy demonstrations in both the simulator and aircraft. The team assessed automated terminal operations, enhanced station keeping, and maneuver tactile limit cueing in a flight simulator. Additionally, the V-280 technology demonstrator conducted autonomous flight profiles to explore these systems in an airborne environment. To mature autonomy systems for integration on future platforms, a Bell 429 was converted into the Aircraft Laboratory for Future Autonomy, completing its first flight last year with fly-by-wire controls at the evaluation pilot station. The influence of Bell autonomy demonstrations on the evolution of Optimally Crewed Vehicles is presented. These efforts have evolved the concept of a digital co-pilot capable of assisting the human crew when called upon, while also acting to enhance aircraft safety through warnings and automated control input, when appropriate.