Validation discussion of an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) using JSBSim Flight Dynamics Model compared to MATLAB/Simulink AeroSim Blockset

摘要

A JSBSim Flight Dynamics Model (FDM) for a UAV has been developed to be used in current simulations and projects under software such as FlightGear and Robot Operating System (ROS). The importance of designing an accurate and high-fidelity FDM for certain applications could be fundamental to obtain good results on the field; specific conditions can be created and simulated before a real flight mission. UAV real flight tests are limited by the aerospace regulations, especially due to safety concerns. Simulators allow developers to test hazardous situations and recreate conditions, such as winds among other environmental settings. An example is found in Sense and Avoid strategies, where the near midair collision (NMAC) conditions have to be simulated before any real test. Due to the importance of the simulation's role, a FDM validation process is presented in this paper in a particular case for a Giant Big Stik R/C UAV under JSBSim. The purpose is, first, define the validation as a process composed by several steps and, secondly, support the use of JSBSim FDM for small fixed-wing aircrafts. This paper covers the validation related to the simulation part, leaving optional real tests for the creation of an even more accurate FDM. Therefore, this paper could be also considered as a simple guide for a developer to model a high accurate UAV computer model in the absence of flight test.