Implementation of Fly-By-Wire/Fly-By-Light Experimental Flight Control Systems in Helicopters

As compared to today's tactical helicopters, the next generation will require single-crewmember operability, dramatically reduced operational and support costs, and minimum vehicle weight. These objectives place requirements on the flight control system which necessitate the incorporation, of advanced low-workload control laws, fly-by-wire/fly-by-light digital control systems, advanced redundancy management and system architecture approaches, and functional integration of precision, reliable navigation data with the flight control system. Several Army and industry programs are presently being conducted to evaluate and demonstrate these key system attributes in actual flight using representative tactical test helicopters. Honeywell has been extensively involved with three of these programs each of which has included the development and flight test of experimental fly-by-wire/fly-by-light digital flight control systems. These programs are: the Advanced Digital/Optical Control System (ADOCS); the Bell Helicopter Model 249 Flight Experiment Program; and the McDonnell Douglas Helicopter AV-05 Flight Experiment Program. The general Honeywell experience gained, and the lessons learned by Honeywell, due to participation in these three programs is addressed. Specific topics for which experience is presented include: system architecture mechanization; system hardware mechanization; control law development; and software development and test.