Human pilots and handling qualities

CHAPTER 12

By L. D. Reid and B. Etktn

12.1THE HUMAN PILOT

Although the analysis and understanding of the dynamics of the airplane as an isolated unit (which has been the burden of the preceding chapters) is extremely important, one must he careful not to forget that for many flight situations it is the response of the total system, made up of the human pilot and the aircraft, that must be considered. It is for this reason that the designers of aircraft should apply the findings of studies into the human factors involved in order to ensure that the completed system is well suited to the men who must fly it.

Some of the areas of consideration include:

1. Cockpit environment; the occupants of the vehicle must be provided with oxygen, warmth, light, etc., to sustain them comfortably.

2. Instrument displays; instruments must be designed and positioned to provide a useful and unambiguous flow of information to the pilot.

3. Controls and switches; the control forces and control system dynamics must be acceptable to the pilot, and switches must be so positioned and designed as to prevent accidental operation. Tables 12.1 to 12.3 present typical pilot data concerning control forces.

Table 12.1

Estimates of the Maximum Rudder Forces that can be Exerted for Various Positions of the Rudder Pedal (Ref. 12.1)

Typical Rates of Stick Movement in Flight Test Pull-ups Under Various Loads for 6 in. to 8 in. Deflection (Ref. 12.1)

4. Pilot workload; the workload of the pilot can often he reduced through proper planning and the introduction of automatic equipment.

The care exercised in considering the human element in the closed-loop system made up of pilot and aircraft can determine the success or failure of a given aircraft design to complete its mission in a safe and efficient manner.