Parameter Estimation using Large Amplitude Data from Real Time Simulator of an Aircraft

The usual method of estimating parameters from flight data is through analysis of small amplitude maneuvers. However, this approach generally leads to a limited coverage of the flight envelope. Analysis of data from large amplitude maneuvers is known to provide estimates over a wider range of angle of attack and sideslip. In this paper, lateral-directional aerodynamic derivatives of a highly augmented fighter aircraft are estimated by applying data partitioning and regression techniques to large amplitude data generated from real time simulator. The estimated derivatives are compared with the reference derivative values and the merits and limitations of the technique discussed