A piloted simulation investigating handling qualities and performance requirements of a single-pilot helicopter in air combat employing a helmet-driven turreted gun

• Main Author: Williams, Jeffrey N.
• Other Authors: Layton, Donald M.
• Language: en_US
• Published: Monterey, California. Naval Postgraduate School 2012
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10945/24807

The development, implementation, and results of a pilot-in-the-loop fixed-base simulation investigating yaw-axis handling qualities and vehicle maneuverability requirements for the task of single-pilot helicopter air combat at terrain-flight altitudes are presented. Experimental variables included yaw-axis natural frequency and damping. Weapon system type was also varied to include a full- and limited-traverse turret driven by a helmet-mounted sight and a fixed-forward gun. Results indicated that a high yaw natural frequency (omega n = 1.5-2.0 rad/sec) and high yaw damping (zeta approx. 1.4) were desirable for Level 1 handling qualities. Pilot ratings generally decreased and the effect of the yaw dynamic characteristics became more pronounced and the weapon system became more restrictive. Other analyses discussed are the vehicle maneuver envelope usage, turret envelope usage, tracking performance, and pilot commentary.