Fly-by-Wire

It all began with the Space Shuttle, the first operational fly-by-wire vehicle.

Systems Technology fly-by-wire work began an independent assessment of the superaugmented pitch axis control law of the Space Shuttle. Subsequent work has included the design and analysis of flight control systems for military transports and fighters, commercial transports, business jets, and rotorcraft. Fly-by-wire research at Systems Technology has included the development of eclectic design methodologies that incorporate the physical insights associated with classical techniques and the mathematical power associated with modern, optimal, and adaptive design methods.

Specific attention has been paid to the development of design requirements and handling qualities criteria as part of work conducted for the FAA, NASA, and the Department of Defense. A particular concern for fly-by-wire aircraft has been the occurrence of Pilot-Induced Oscillations, especially those events associated with control surface actuator rate limiting. Systems Technology has paid particular attention to the prediction, analysis, comprehension, and mitigation of these events.

Initial work on fly-by-wire flight controls began with the Space Shuttle and continues today with our industry’s most modern helicopters, business jets, and transports.

flybywire