EFFECTS OF GYROSCOPIC CROSS COUPLING BETWEEN PITCH AND ROLL ON THE HANDLING QUALITIES OF VTOL AIRCRAFT

In order to provide information relative to the effects of gyroscopic cross coupling between pitch and roll on the handling qualities of VTOL aircraft, a flight investigation has been conducted during which cross coupling was simulated. Generality is achieved by presenting the results of the flight investigation in the form of a criterion which may be used t o predict the acceptability of the level of cross coupling in VTOL aircraft as a function of the aircraft design parameters. The criterion is based on pilot's opinions of the acceptability of the motions for the range of cross coupling which was simulated during a maneuver in which cross coupling is particularly objectionable. is used to provide a basis for application of the criterion. The theory which i s developed is shown to predict accurately the aircraft motions.