Frame-Wise Control Allocation

The expression ‘frame‐wise control allocation’ arose when considering that modern flight control computers operate by determining the required control effector deflections several times per second, around 100 in current tactical aircraft design. At the beginning of each cycle of operation, all the inputs to the control law are evaluated, all the control laws are applied, and the required control deflections calculated. Starting from level flight and maneuvering to achieve the same level flight condition, the control configuration at the end will be different if the path taken was via a loop than if the path taken were a barrel roll. Control effectiveness may be pre‐calculated and stored in the flight control computer as functions of the current flight condition. The flight control system may utilize an on‐board model consisting of an extensive model of the airplane: at a minimum, aerodynamic forces and moments as functions of airplane state, control effector positions, and other relevant variables.