Flight Simulation and Pilot-Vehicle Research

Flight Science and Technology is one of a number of 5* research groups within the Department of Engineering at Liverpool. The group culture is based on deep knowledge and expert skills in the aeronautical disciplines of flight dynamics, control, simulation, aeroelasticity and handling qualities. We are solution-focused and deal with problems at both the detailed physics/technology level and the whole aircraft, systems level. Our motion flight simulator enables us to tackle pilot-centred research, including tactile cues and display design. Our primary modelling and simulation environment is FLIGHTLAB, a multi-body dynamic synthesis and analysis software package especially developed for the creation of complex time-dependent and nonlinear aerospace vehicle simulations. The group is currently engaged in a number of different projects funded or supported by a variety of sources including the EPSRC, the European Commission, QinetiQ, Westland Helicopters, ONERA and BAE Systems, supported by test pilots. 

The simulator is used in a variety of research projects including:

• The Handling Qualities of the European Tilt Rotor Aircraft (RHILP & ACT-TILT), 

• Simulation Fidelity Criteria,

• Visual Perception in Flight Control,

• Aircraft Pilot Couplings,

• Helicopter Interactions with Turbulent  Wakes  

• Historic aircraft: The Wright Brothers Project and the da Vinci glider. 

The current aircraft library includes fixed wing, rotary wing, tilt-rotor aircraft and gliders. 

Further information on the Bibby Flight Simulator

Helicopter Blues...............(or how to survive in the area of helicopter research)

Photos courtesy of Science Photo