Highly Integrated Digital Electronic Control

The Highly Integrated Digital Electronic Control (HIDEC) evolved from the earlier DEEC research effort. Major elements of the HIDEC were
a Digital Electronic Flight Control System (DEFCS), engine-mounted DEECs, an onboard general-purpose computer, and an integrated archi­tecture that provided connectivity between components. The HIDEC F-15A (USAF serial No. 71-0287) was modified to incorporate DEEC – equipped F100 engine model derivative (EMD) engines. A dual chan­nel Digital Electronic Flight Control System augmented the standard hydromechanical flight control system in the F-15A and replaced its ana­log control augmentation system. The DEFCS was linked to the aircraft data buses to tie together all other electronic systems, including the air­craft’s variable geometry engine inlet control system.[1261] Over a span of about 15 years, the HIDEC F-15 would be used to develop several modes of integrated propulsion and flight control systems. These integrated modes were Adaptive Engine Control System, Performance Seeking Control, Self-Repairing Flight Control System, and the Propulsion-Only Flight Control System. They are discussed separately in the following sections.[1262]