Frequency-Domain Method for Automated Simulation Updates Based on Flight Data

A statistically based frequency-domain method for using flight data to update aerodynamic data tables used in flight simulators is developed and demonstrated. The capability to accurately and automatically update a simulation to incorporate nonlinear and unsteady aerodynamic effects embodied in the flight data is demonstrated. Useful features of this novel frequency-domain approach are highlighted, including computational efficiency, noise rejection, automated model structure determination in the frequency domain for nonlinear and unsteady aerodynamics, and the ability to generate simulation updates without air flow angle measurements in the flight data. An F-16 nonlinear simulation is used to demonstrate the technique.