Flight Test on Ultralight Motorglider, Aerodynamic Model Estimation and Use in a 6DOF Flight Simulator

The present paper deals with flight test activities performed by the authors on the Lambada ultralight motorglider. A novel complete instrumentations has been used, which allows a fast, reliable and accurate flight data acquisition and post-processing. The data acquired on board are sent to a ground station through a radio-modem. The data link allows a real-time flight data visualization. Lambada is a motorglider built in Czech Republic and it is produced in two versions of different spans and wing surfaces. The plane is all-composite. The wing section is equipped with a flap with a slot. The flap is also a flaperon. Flight tests and measurement of flight data were particularly focused to the accurate modelling and characterization of the airplane itself by means of system identification techniques. An example of how this has been possible for the above airplane is reported. This paper illustates also how the aerodynamic database obtained through flight tests is used with a 6DOF flight simulator operated by the authors at the University of Naples. The simulator is also provided with a force reproduction system on the cockpit controls. The force feedback model has been implemented by the authors and resulted in an enhanced realism in piloting efforts.