Simulation Software for Virtual Flight Testing

ABSTRACT: Clear Science Corp. and Princeton University propose to develop and demonstrate software that accurately and efficiently simulates the full set of physics associated with aircraft flight operations. The critical attributes of the proposed framework are accuracy, computational efficiency, and inclusiveness. More accurate computational models will support higher fidelity analysis during the aircraft design process with higher confidence in the results, enabling reductions in the required number of expensive and time-consuming ground and flight tests. Computationally efficient models will support flight simulations for the design of guidance, navigation, and control systems, can be utilized as pilot training software, can support flight testing to reduce risks to test pilots and aircraft, and can be integrated into advanced control systems. The computational framework will accommodate the complexities of the full aircraft with flight control, propulsion systems, separating stores and cargo, landing gear, and a diverse set of physics (aerodynamics, structural dynamics, aeroelasticity, aero-acoustics, aerothermodynamics). Phase I work demonstrated key components of the flight simulator: aerodynamic models of forces and moments as functions of operational variables, the coupled effects of aeroelasticity, coupled flight mechanics models, and integrated flight controllers. Phase II work will integrate more features of aircraft operation into the software including propulsion systems and coupled control system hardware and software. BENEFIT: The commercial product to be developed is a virtual flight simulation tool to enable GNC design, pilot-in-the-loop training exercises, and advanced flow control systems in next-generation aircraft. This translates into shorter time-to-market cycles and more affordable aircraft for the US military, along with safer test programs. Potential applications of the virtual flight testing tool include fixed-wing aircraft, weapon systems, rotorcraft, and even non-conventional aircraft like flapping-wing micro-air vehicles. The tool will be designed to accommodate systems operating in the low subsonic, subsonic, transonic, supersonic, and hypersonic flight regimes. Applications extend from military aircraft to commercial airliners, launch vehicles, and space planes, each requiring cross-disciplinary, computationally intensive simulations of the aerodynamics, aerothermodynamics, aeroservoelasticity, and flight control systems. Commercial applications extend to products outside the aerospace industry: automobiles, manufacturing equipment involving fluid flows, nuclear power plant equipment, new green energy-production platforms, etc. Primary customers include US DoD agencies and NASA, prime defense contractors like Boeing, Lockheed-Martin, Northrop-Grumman, Raytheon, Sikorsky, and smaller commercial aircraft manufacturers like Cessna and Gulf Stream.