CATALOG DATA:
The equations of motion of rigid airplane are developed and analyzed. The relationship between aerodynamic stability derivatives, vehicle motion, and handling qualities is presented. Also classical and modern control theory is applied to the design of automatic flight control systems.

TEXTBOOK:
Bryson, A., Control of Spacecraft and Aircraft, Princeton University Press, 1994

GOALS:
This course is designed to provide students with an understanding of the basic concepts of flight dynamics. Particular objectives include: 1) student understanding of the equations of motion of an airplane; 2) to gain experience in modeling physical systems; 3) to develop experience in synthesis of control systems using modern control theory; 4) to apply modern control theory to design aircraft autopilots and spacecraft control systems.

PREREQUISITES:
AME 30314 (AME 301) and AME 30315 (AME 302)

Topics:

• Rigid body equations of motion
• Aerodynamic modeling/stability derivatives
• Longitudinal dynamics and Lateral dynamics
• Dynamics of Linear Systems, state space formulation, state transition matrix, and canonical forms
• State feedback design, pole placement and practical constraints
• Observer design
• Optimal control design, performance indices, Riccati equations
• Application to autopilot design

ABET category content as estimated by faculty member who prepared the course description:
Engineering Science: 1.5 credits or 50%
Engineering Design: 1.5 credits or 50%

Prepared by: Professor Robert Nelson
Last Update: May 21, 2004

 

Direct comments, questions, and corrections to amedept@nd.edu