Novel Analysis Methods To Support The Handling Qualities Evaluation Of Rotorcraft

Abstract

Handling qualities (HQ) assessments for rotorcraft are a critical part of the aircraft development cycle. These HQs are often assigned through the use of Mission Task Elements (MTEs) and subjective rating scales using the Cooper-Harper scale. While offline computer simulations continue to improve, pilot feedback during live testing is still required for rating assignment. As the level of autonomy continues to increase, the active role the pilot takes is reduced and objective performance assessment is expected to become more important. New and novel metrics and methods of analysis are needed to support this changing paradigm. This paper introduces novel approach that is designed to aid in the HQ evaluations of VTOL aircraft agnostic to the level of automation. The proposed methodology utilize rainflow counting algorithms to assess vehicle performance during MTEs. The primary advantage of the novel techniques is they were found to provide rapid insight into vehicle performance that is neither strictly time- or frequency-domain based, and can be related back to objective task requirements while showing strong agreement with pilot comments and handling qualities ratings.