Data acquisition system for aircraft flying quality investigation

Abstract

Various methods of providing a data acquisition system for the Department of Aeronautics Cessna 310H model aircraft were considered. The system was to be reliable, functional and reasonably simple to operate in conjunction with its use in the flying laboratory. A need for dynamic flight information was recognized as an integral component in evaluating flying qualities. A three-axis rate gyro system was designed to meet this requirement. Output requirements included data accuracy, data availability and an associated simplicity in data reduction. A photo-panel data gathering system was selected to fulfill these requirements. The recording device used was a 35mm single-lens reflex camera system. Installation and component check-out of the data acquisition system was achieved at the Naval Postgraduate School during the period September 1973 to June 1974.