Results of a Precision Hover Simulation on the One-to-One Motion Large Amplitude Research Simulator

A piloted simulation was conducted to: evaluate attitude response bandwidth as a predictor of V/STOL hover flying qualities, validate a unique convolution integral simulation technique (CONVO), and qualitatively assess the one-to-one motion characteristics of the Grumman Large Amplitude Research Simulator (LARS). Handling qualities ratings demonstrated good correlation with attitude response bandwidth for both attitude command and rate command response types, however, a minimum damping requirement is necessary to supplement the bandwidth requirement for attitude command responses. Formal validation of the CONVO technique was not possible due to inaccurate modeling of the Grumman V/STOL Design 698, however, CONVO fidelity for the bandwidth investigation was satisfactory. Comparisons of pilot evaluations of the Design 698 on LARS and the NASA Ames VMS show LARS evaluations to be much worse (2-3 HOR's) due to high controller sensitivity.