Experience with multi-step test inputs for helicopter parameter identification

Leith, D.J. and Murray-Smith, D.J. (1989) Experience with multi-step test inputs for helicopter parameter identification. Vertica, 13(3), pp. 403-412.

Abstract

This paper describes a test input design method which is intended to provide test signals having good properties for the purposes of helicopter parameter identification. For satisfactory identification test signals should be simple to apply, they should lead to long test records and thus to efficient estimation. They should also be robust in the sesne that any minor variation from the ideal signal does not produce significant degradation of parameter estimates. Guidelines are presented concerning the features that should be present in the auto-spectrum of a desirable test signal. When account is taken of practical constraints on the form of input which can be applied, this design process leads to multi-step signals. An optimal spectrum program can then be used for the synthesis of inputs for this particular form. Results of flight trials carried out at RAE (Bedford) are presented, and the effectiveness of this test input design approach is demonstrated. The paper includes a brief account of factors which arise in extending the work to involve optimal input design principles.

• Item Type: Articles
• Keywords: system identification, helicopter, test input, experiment design
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Murray-Smith, Professor David
• Authors: Leith, D.J., and Murray-Smith, D.J.
• Subjects: T Technology > TJ Mechanical engineering and machinery; T Technology > TK Electrical engineering. Electronics Nuclear engineering; T Technology > TL Motor vehicles. Aeronautics. Astronautics
• College/School: College of Science and Engineering > School of Engineering > Systems Power and Energy
• Journal Name: Vertica
• ISSN: 0360-5450