Evaluation of Spoilers for Light Aircraft Flight Path Control

Abstract

The fixed-base flight simulator at the University of Kansas Flight Research Laboratory was used to evaluate wing spoilers for longitudinal flight path control on a modified Cessna 177B aircraft. More than 100 simulated ILS approaches were flown by evaluation pilots using both conventional methods and spoiler controls. Three different spoiler control methods were evaluated. Spoilers provided precise glide path control with constant airspeed and attitude. Control is most effective when the steady-state trimmed airplane CL remains independent of spoiler position.Nomenclature ASEL = airplane, single engine, land CL = airplane lift coefficient C m = pitching moment coefficient Ah = altitude perturbation ILS = instrument landing system M § s = pitch acceleration due to spoiler deflection on one side n = load factor rms = root mean square AV = airspeed perturbation a -angle of attack Aa = angle of attack perturbation d s = symmetrical spoiler deflection A6 = pitch angle perturbation

Parafoil Control Authority with Upper-Surface Canopy Spoilers

“…In the 1960s, spoiler devices were incorporated on powered aircraft for direct lift control. Kohlman and Brainerd [12] demonstrated the benefits of using upper-surface aerodynamic spoilers for glide path control on light aircraft.…”

Parafoil Glide Slope Control Using Canopy Spoilers

“…In the 1960's, spoiler devices were incorporated on powered aircraft for direct lift control (DLC). Kohlman and Brainerd [10] demonstrated the benefits of using upper wing surface aerodynamic spoilers for glide path control on light aircraft. Yet another method for glide slope control is through the use of auxiliary flaps mounted on the bottom surface of a wing.…”

Flight Test Data for Light Aircraft Spoiler Roll Control Systems

“…Spoilers, once installed, can be incorporated into a flight path control system which offers easier and more accurate control during final approach (4).…”