FLIGHT SIMULATION AS A TOOL TO DEVELOP V-22 SLUNG LOAD CAPABILITIES

Flight simulation activities contributing to development of the V-22 Osprey’s externally slung load carriage capabilities are discussed. Configuration of the simulator, use of visual cues to indicate load motion to the pilot, the unique Lagrangian approach taken to mathematically model coupled load/aircraft dynamics and nonlinear elastic sling effects in real-time, and scope of piloted evaluations are described. Use of flight simulation as an exploratory tool to evaluate the unique capability of tiltrotor aircraft to carry external loads in high speed airplane mode flight is described. The role of piloted simulation in design of the V-22 external load autojettison system is also discussed. Interfaces between simulation activities and flight test planning and execution are chronicled from the standpoint of documenting the utility of simulation as a tool that can reduce flight test expenditures and risk. Correlation of simulation results with available flight test data is presented. Use of simulation to augment flight test results with the goal of providing generic flight envelopes applicable to the wide variety of loads to be carried by the V-22 is also illustrated.