Originally Posted by
JammedStab
According to the patent.....
"While the direct lift control proposal has some advantages, it has substantial drawbacks. Because the direct lift control technique uncouples flight path control from pitch attitude control, in contrast to the flight control systems of virtually all conventional large commercial transport airplanes, direct lift control would cause airplane handling characteristics unfamiliar to commercial pilots. This proposal would likely require that commercial pilots undergo additional training to learn the different handling characteristics of airplane incorporating direct lift control. Aside from unconventional maneuvering characteristics, direct lift control also poses logistical difficulties. The implementation of direct lift control would necessitate complex system changes to ensure acceptable pilot and flight control system interaction. Furthermore, the use of spoilers, which are often utilized by the direct lift control, could result in unacceptable air frame buffeting, unduly compromising passenger comfort."
Yes, I read that part.
I also read this bit:
The improved margins result from the automatic, symmetric variation of movable aircraft surfaces and/or high lift surfaces, including, for example, the flaperons.
which sounds like a pretty good description of DLC to me.
