The ROSSI test bench is innovative due to the very nature of the system under test: the new generation of active inceptors feedback haptics not implemented in aviation vehicles so far. This involves the study of the theoretical curves and the provision of the means to test them.
The aim of replacing the pilot hand with a robotic arm is also a considerable challenge. Although the robot capacity to sense their environment and coordinate their actions is improving day by day, they are still far from fully cover a human hand functionality. In this sense, a major demand is the avoidance of damages to the unit under test. One of our main focuses will therefore consist on obtaining an accurate inceptor manipulation and a high-resolution force sensing.
The project successfully achieved its main objectives, showcasing great accomplishments in various areas. The use of a robotic system and high-precision force sensor allowed the emulation of human hand behavior, enhancing the flight experience and crew coordination. The measurement and validation of the inceptor's haptic performance were remarkable successes, ensuring quality and reliability in the flight control system. Additionally, the project optimized test execution speed, human resources, and focused on value-added tasks. It also ensured reliability, repeatability, traceability, and flexibility, showcasing the system's comprehensive capabilities.
The proposed future improvements for the system include studying the location of the force sensor within the climatic chamber to improve accuracy, conducting a double calibration of the sensor, and exploring the possibility of limiting movement to a single axis. Additionally, a discrepancy in the robot's speed was identified, which requires evaluating the choice of a faster robot and considering the acceleration needed to reach certain speeds. Manufacturing deviations in the inceptor's pivot point were also found, which may require manual adjustments, and it was discovered that the vision system only provides accurate measurements at the reference position. Lastly, the need to adapt the system to different inceptor models and conduct preliminary studies to determine possible mechanical or software modifications is emphasized.
