Aircraft Maneuver Design Using Bifurcation Analysis and Sliding Mode Control Techniques

TLDR: In this article, bifurcation analysis-based methodology is used in conjunction with a sliding-mode-based control algorithm to construct and simulate maneuvers for a nonlinear, 6 degree-of-freedom, F-18 high-alpha research vehicle aircraft model.

Abstract: In this paper, bifurcation analysis-based methodology is used in conjunction with a sliding-mode-based control algorithm to construct and simulate maneuvers for a nonlinear, 6 degree-of-freedom, F-18 high-alpha research vehicle aircraft model. Three different types of maneuvers, namely, a minimum-radius level turn, velocity vector roll, and spin recovery to a level flight condition, are attempted to demonstrate the usefulness of the proposed approach. The procedure involves constructing the desired maneuvers using constrained bifurcation analysis-based methodology. The results obtained from bifurcation analysis provide the reference inputs for the sliding mode controller to switch the aircraft between desired flight conditions. Robustness of the sliding mode controller is also examined by introducing uncertainties in aerodynamic parameters. Closed-loop simulation results are later presented to show the effectiveness of the proposed technique.