Computer-Display Feasibility Study for Flight Performance Optimization

An airborne computer-display system is developed for the purpose of flying vertical plane optimum flight paths. System requirements are specified by first examining mission requirements, then operational requirements, and finally state-of-the-art constraints. The system is designed to provide command information for flying minimum time and fuel transition maneuvers, and maximum range and endurance cruise maneuvers. Optimal command data are derived, in the computer, from a series of stored profiles which reflect both the aircraft drag configuration and ambient weather conditions. System feasibility is demonstrated through a system description which consists of state-of-the-art computer and display equipments. A digital computer is shown to be more accurate, compact and flexible than a comparable analog system. Displays consisting of an attitude director indicator, a flight profile indicator, and Mach number and altitude indicators are suggested for presenting command information. Final system size and weight are less than one cubic foot and fifty pounds, respectively. The system is tentatively developed for the F-104C, a contemporary aircraft for which a reasonable amount of optimum performance data is available. The system seems more applicable to developmental aircraft of the present era, however. (Author)