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About Six Degrees of Freedom Modelling and Simulation of Aerospace Vehicles

As Modeling and Simulation (M&S) is penetrating the aerospace sciences at all levels, this two-day course will introduce you to the difficult subject of modeling aerospace vehicles in six degrees of freedom (6 DoF). Starting with the modern approach of tensors, the equations of motion are derived and, after introducing coordinate systems, they are expressed in matrices for compact computer programming. Aircraft and missile prototypes will exemplify 6 DoF aerodynamic modeling, rocket and turbojet propulsion, actuating systems, autopilots, guidance, and seekers. These subsystems will be integrated step-by-step into full-up simulations. For demonstrations, typical fly-out trajectories will be run and projected on the screen. With the provided source code and plotting programs, you can duplicate the trajectories on your PC with the help of a FORTRAN compiler, and use the prototypes as a starting point for your own 6 DoF aerospace simulations.

This course is valuable for engineers that employ, modify or develop detailed aerospace vehicle simulations and conduct performance evaluations. Some familiarity with vehicle dynamics and control is assumed, but no prior knowledge of simulations is required. To execute and modify the provided source code, programming experience in FORTRAN or C is desirable.

Much of 6 DoF M&S is closely guarded (proprietary) by industry. This course will fill the need to make 6 DoF M&S available to a broader audience (aerospace engineers and students). It is based on Dr. Zipfel’s book and the course he teaches at the University of Florida. 

Course Topics

• Introduction
• Concepts in Modeling and Simulation: Definitions, the M&S pyramid;
• Matrices, Vectors and Tensors: Invariant modeling with tensors; Definition of frames and coordinate systems
• Coordinate Systems: Heliocentric, inertial, geographic coordinate systems; Body, wind and flight path coordinate systems
• Kinematics: Rational time derivative; Euler transformation
• Equations of Motion: Newton’s translational equations; Euler’s attitude equations;
• Aerodynamics: Missile aerodynamics in aero-ballistic coordinates; Aircraft dynamics in body coordinates;
• Propulsion and Actuators: Rocket and turbojet propulsion;
• Autopilot: Roll and heading autopilots; Altitude autopilot; Acceleration autopilots;
• Seeker: Radar and IIR seekers;
• Guidance: Pro-nav, waypoint and optimal guidance laws;
• Performance Analysis: Missile and aircraft performance evaluation;

For further information please contact:
Anne-Marie Eliseo
Industry Education Manager
phone: +61-8-8302-3928
email: industryeducation@nicta.com.au