Single lever power controller for manned and unmanned aircraft

Abstract

Method and apparatus for controlling an aircraft engine with a single, manually-operable lever includes structure and function for generating a pilot thrust command from the single lever. A processor is coupled to the single lever and (i) receives the generated pilot thrust command, (ii) receives a plurality of detected ambient air flight conditions, (iii) receives a plurality of detected engine performance parameters, (iv) determines first and second engine control commands based on the received pilot thrust command, the detected ambient air flight conditions, and the engine performance parameters, and (v) outputs first and second output signals respectively corresponding to the first and second engine control commands. Preferably, the engine control commands comprise propeller RPM and engine inlet manifold air pressure commands, and the detected ambient air flight conditions comprise air speed and altitude.

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