Performance analysis of rudder surface follow-up loading device under multi-source uncertainty

In aviation engineering, rudder surface loading tests employing follow-up loading devices constitute a critical phase in aircraft development, contributing to high-quality and efficient design as well as research and development efforts. The tracking performance of the follow-up loading device plays a pivotal role in ensuring the precision and validity of the test outcomes. Consequently, evaluating the reliability of this performance is fundamental to the device's design. This study examines the influence of multiple uncertainty sources, including arc guide rail processing deviations, slider motion errors, and measurement inaccuracies of the rudder surface tilt sensor, on the tracking accuracy of a rope-driven rudder surface follow-up loading test apparatus. Utilizing a Simulink-based simulation model, a Kriging surrogate model is established for the system. The tracking performance reliability is subsequently assessed, and the evaluation results confirm that the device demonstrates robust design quality and its tracking accuracy aligns with expected performance standards.