73174 - Atmospheric Flight Dynamics A

Learning outcomes

Starting from the six degrees-of-freedom equations of motion, fundamentals of aircraft longitudinal and lateral-directional dynamics are addressed. Relationship between geometric, inertial and aerodynamic features to pilot commands and external disturbances are highlighted.

Course contents

AIRCRAFT DYNAMICS Reference Frames
Attitude representation, Euler Angles, Rotation matrices Rigid Body equations of motion Aircraft external efforts: gravitational, propulsive and aerodynamic forces and moments, wind gusts and turbulence Aircraft dynamics linearisation, Stability derivatives, Decoupled Lon-lat models Longitudinal dynamics: Short Period, Phugoid Modes Lateral-directional dynamics: DR, Roll, Spiral Modes. Roll/yaw coupling
HELICOPTERS PERFORMANCES AND DYNAMICS Helicopters layout,Results of rotor aerodynamics, Rotor dynamics, helicopter modelling Helicopter trim, Helicopter performance Helicopter dynamics, Multirotors dynamics (quad-hexa/copters).
AIRCRAFT&ROTORCRAFT FEEDBACK CONTROL Block diagrams, transfer function Laplace transforms, 1 & 2 order systems theory Root Locus, Bode Diagrams, Gain and Phase margin technique Introduction to atmospheric fligth control systems: SAS, CSAS, Autopilot schemes HQ, handling qualities Aircraft Longitudinal Control: Pitch Damper, Attitude Control, Flight Path Autopilots (speed & altitude) Aircraft Lat/Dir Control: Roll&Yaw Dampers, Turn Coordination, Flight Path Autopilots (heading) Human pilot in the Loop Multirotors feedback control (with practical sessions)

Readings/Bibliography

Ashkenas, Aircraft Dynamics and Automatic Control, Wiley Ogata, Modern Control Engineering, Wiley Stevens and Lewis, Aircraft Simulation and Control

Teaching methods

Class Lectures, lab sessions

Assessment methods

Written exams with theory and applications.

Office hours

See the website of Fabrizio Giulietti